Joyous Revolutionary

What does it mean to be a joyous revolutionary when the social impact and nonprofit sectors are constantly under attack?

It feels like every week since the start of the year, I’ve spoken with a new nonprofit or social change leader who feels overwhelmed by the relentless pace of change. With less than 90 days into 2025, it already feels like the year has lasted for years.

With so much beyond our control, how can we continue to embrace hope and maintain an abundance mindset?

During this season of life, I’ve been intentionally cultivating new daily habits that help me hold onto hope. These have included starting my day with quiet reflection, offering a prayer of gratitude for all I have and for those in my life, and sometimes taking a walk outside with a friend. I’m also no longer starting my day with the trifecta of checking my business email and reading both the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times. I also deleted my Facebook profile. 

Because daily habits shape our mindset.

The work of social change is undoubtedly tough, but joy must be at its core. If we allow the shifting tides of circumstance to dictate how we feel and respond, we risk losing our way. We may find ourselves working out of self-righteousness or obligation rather than from a place of joy. And before we know it, we've unknowingly fueled our own burnout.

I’m reminded of a t-shirt I bought last year from one of my favorite illustrators, Lisa Congdon. It reads, "JOYOUS REVOLUTIONARY," with bold typography that screams hope in vibrant hot pink and orange. There's no way to wear it and not feel joyous. It’s taken on a greater meaning for me since the start of 2025.

What daily habits do you practice to cultivate joy? How do you maintain hope during times of uncertainty? Send me a note at Kristen@KMCStrat.com—I’d love to exchange ideas and learn from one another. It's one more way we can find joy in supporting each other as we work toward a better and greater good.