We host the Mondo Mingle to hold space for nonprofit leaders across the sector to connect and be inspired by one another. At last week’s event, we were honored to hear from Cheryl P. Johnson, CEO of the Coalition On Temporary Shelter (COTS) who spoke with Mondo Unlimited CEO Trish Dewald. Cheryl offered valuable insights on how nonprofit leaders can prioritize their well-being while continuing to motivate their teams for success.
As the year-end approaches, many nonprofit leaders focus on meeting ambitious goals. Cheryl highlighted the importance of pairing this ambition with a commitment to supporting your team. Leaders should be mindful of the pressures faced not only by themselves but also by their staff, who are equally accountable to communities, boards, and families. By approaching the busy season with kindness and generosity, leaders can ensure their teams feel supported and motivated to achieve their goals.
One of the most impactful points Cheryl shared was the difference between self-care and rest. While self-care often involves scheduling time for activities, she emphasized that rest goes deeper. She introduced the “power of the pause” concept - to intentionally take pauses to reset, recharge, and reflect. Cheryl described her own sabbatical experience, which fundamentally changed how she approaches leadership. She encouraged attendees to embrace rest, noting, "Rest isn’t just a nap; it’s about being fully present and avoiding burnout." This focus on rest helps leaders show up with clarity and purpose, and cultivate balance within their organizations.
The conversation also underscored the importance of leaders modeling healthy behavior for their teams. Rather than simply talking about work-life balance, leaders need to practice it themselves. When leaders demonstrate intentionality in taking time to rest and recharge, it sends a powerful message to staff. It is important for staff to hear the message: "I don’t expect you to work like that either" from their leader, according to Cheryl. Fostering a culture of balance and sustainability starts at the top.
Cheryl reminded us that by showing vulnerability and acknowledging the challenges they face, leaders can create a more open and supportive organizational culture. Cheryl emphasized, "We don’t have to walk in with our titles; we can just be people." This approach encourages authenticity and builds trust, which is critical for creating an environment where staff feel seen, heard, and valued.
Perhaps the most profound takeaway was Cheryl’s point that healthier leaders create healthier communities. She explained that when leaders prioritize their own well-being, that positive energy trickles down to their staff and ultimately benefits the communities they serve. "When we are healthy, our communities reflect that," she said, underscoring the idea that leadership is not just about productivity but about fostering a healthy and supportive environment for everyone involved.