WTF comes next for changemakers?

Since January, the social change sector has been shrinking.

It started with executive orders that immediately pulled funding and created deep uncertainty. And when things feel uncertain, organizations - understandably - start protecting their resources.

Projects get delayed or cancelled. People pause on trying new things. They wait to see what’s next.

Right now, every industry is feeling the weight of unpredictability.

At first, I thought this was just happening in marketing and communications. But after talking to other agency and business owners, I’ve realized: it’s everywhere. Opportunities for consultants, nonprofits, and values-aligned businesses have slowed across the board - fewer contracts, fewer campaigns, fewer chances to do the work we’re best at.

When uncertainty rises, morale drops, and workplace culture shifts.

So if you’ve been feeling it too - you’re not alone. Leaders across the board are feeling the squeeze.

So what can we do? We support each other.

As a leader, you're likely asking yourself: How do we get through today? How do we prepare for what’s ahead?

One big lesson from COVID? Don’t hold your breath waiting for things to "go back to normal." The key to resilience is adapting to what’s next.

Here’s what I’m thinking about right now:

1. What do we need to do now to get through this moment?
That might mean adjusting plans, shifting focus, or getting creative with budgets. A marketing campaign you planned three months ago might not be what your audience needs today. Take stock and make the changes that meet the moment.

2. How can we prepare for what’s next?
The pendulum will swing back - timing uncertain, but momentum always shifts. When it does, you want to be the organization people turn to. That means continuing to show up and offer value, even in a quieter season.

✔️ Check in on fellow leaders - sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone makes a difference.

✔️ Donate what you can to nonprofits that keep communities strong.

✔️ Find ways to bring joy into your team’s day-to-day.

One thing giving me hope? Seeing consultants show up for one another. Collaboration and community have never been more important.

That’s why I want to host a Zoom session for consultants to connect, share strategies, ask questions, and remind each other that we’re not navigating this alone. If you're interested, click here to join the waitlist. Once we get a few people in, we’ll pick a date that works best for everyone.

This season is hard. But we don’t have to do it alone.

The more we collaborate, the stronger we’ll be - now and in whatever new normal comes next.