There is about one week left in the year. That means nonprofit offices everywhere are in a very specific mode. Calendars are full. Inboxes are loud. Coffee is doing most of the work.

Fundraising deadlines stack up. Donor decisions roll in. Reporting and programs do not pause. End-of-year logistics still need attention. Everyone is moving fast and hoping the calendar cooperates.

Ending the year well often means doing ordinary work under extraordinary pressure.

I almost skipped this month’s post because I am living this season too. I work in the nonprofit sector. Right now, most of us are juggling long days, urgent tasks, and the mental checklist of what still needs to be wrapped up before the year closes.

This one is for you.

This post is for the people who keep showing up with care and competence when the pace is relentless. Development teams watching year-end numbers. Program staff serving clients through the holidays. Operations folks keeping the wheels on. Leaders trying to end the year well while already thinking about the next one.

Showing up with care and competence during the busiest weeks of the year is its own kind of leadership.

You got this.

I wish you a happy, bold mission holiday season.