Fundraising is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Fundraising is a Marathon, Not a Sprint: How to Keep Going When the Road Gets Tough

If you’ve ever trained for a marathon (or even just watched one), you know that it’s not about how fast you start—it’s about how long you can keep going. The same is true for fundraising. There are moments of excitement and momentum, but also long stretches where progress feels slow, and challenges pile up. So, how do you push through when fundraising gets tough?

1. Pace Yourself: The Power of Consistency

Marathon runners don’t sprint from the starting line—they find a steady rhythm that allows them to sustain their energy over the entire race. Fundraising works the same way. Instead of focusing on quick wins, successful fundraising efforts are built on consistent outreach, relationship-building, and storytelling.

• 💡 Practical Tip: Set realistic weekly goals for donor engagement, whether that’s sending five personal thank-you notes, having three donor conversations, or making one major ask. Progress adds up over time.

2. Train Your Mind: Keep a Positive Mindset

Runners often hit a “wall” around the 20-mile mark—a moment when exhaustion sets in and the finish line feels impossibly far away. Fundraisers experience something similar when donor fatigue sets in, grants get rejected, or campaign momentum slows.

• 💡 Practical Tip: When you feel discouraged, revisit the mission. Remind yourself (and your team) why this work matters. Share impact stories, read donor appreciation messages, or take a moment to reflect on past successes.

3. Fuel Up: Surround Yourself with Support

No marathoner runs alone—they have a cheering squad, coaches, and fellow runners who keep them motivated. Fundraisers need the same kind of support system.

• 💡 Practical Tip: Lean on your network. Join fundraising peer groups, seek mentorship, and celebrate small wins with your team. A simple “You’ve got this” from a fellow fundraiser can be the boost you need to keep going.

4. Watch for Mile Markers: Celebrate Small Wins

Every marathon course has mile markers to help runners track progress. Fundraisers should create their own markers, too.

• 💡 Practical Tip: Set mini goals along the way. Instead of waiting until the end of a campaign to celebrate, recognize milestones like securing your first donor, reaching 25% of your goal, or getting a major gift commitment. Celebrating small wins fuels motivation for the next leg of the journey.

5. Keep Your Eyes on the Finish Line

When the finish line feels far away, it’s tempting to slow down or give up altogether. But every step forward brings you closer.

• 💡 Practical Tip: Visualize success. Picture the lives that will be impacted by your fundraising efforts. Stay focused on the bigger picture, and remember: fundraising is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep going!

What keeps you motivated when fundraising feels tough? Share your strategies in the comments!