Lead without losing yourself: Vocational awe in the nonprofit sector
Vocational awe occurs when your dedication to your mission-driven work makes you feel like you always have to give more, even at the expense of your own needs.
Vocational awe makes it harder to set boundaries, ask for support, or recognize burnout as a systemic issue rather than a personal failing. It also interferes with knowing how much your labor is worth. When you’ve been taught to see your work as a “calling,” it can feel uncomfortable (or even selfish) to ask for fair pay or to name your value with confidence.
Naming vocational awe matters because it helps us see how the culture of overwork is built into our sector and gives us space to imagine healthier, more sustainable ways to keep doing the work we love without losing ourselves in it.
Together, we’ll explore practical steps for recognizing the worth of your labor, building confidence in naming your needs, and setting boundaries that protect your energy.
If you're grappling with vocational awe and trying to figure out how to take care of yourself so you can remain in the nonprofit sector, we want to connect with you.
Let’s brainstorm ways to set boundaries, reclaim joy in our work, understand the value of our contributions, and build sustainable habits that keep us energized for the long haul. Come as you are and leave with at least one friend who gets it.
This is a virtual workshop.
Workshop Leaders
Molly Krichten of Carnegie of Homestead is a visionary nonprofit professional with experience working at state-, county-, municipal-, and independent 501(c)3 libraries, as well as local affiliates of international nonprofit organizations such as United Way and Habitat for Humanity. Bringing over 20 years of nonprofit experience, Molly facilitates creative and productive conversations engaging people in the everyday excellence that results in strategic victories, earning her several awards and designations from state and national organizations. Her experiences in the suburbs of Baltimore, the city of Pittsburgh, shores of Southwest Florida, and the rural expanses of West Virginia inform her sensibilities about service to the underserved and fuels her desire to elevate the voices of marginalized communities through meaningful connection and communication.
Shannon Parris of Shannon Parris Consulting propels nonprofits and small businesses to reach ambitious goals while uplifting the people who power them. She helps nonprofit leaders plan, manage, and evaluate their programs, strategies, and culture. Whether navigating tough relationships or wading through convoluted systems, her people-centered approach creates practical solutions that last. As a multiply-neurodivergent Korean adoptee who was raised in a predominantly white community, Shannon has a unique perspective on privilege and equity. She is most passionate about working to dismantle systems of oppression and to advocate for and galvanize nonprofit leaders with marginalized identities.
Payment is 100% optional!
This is a pay-what-moves-you virtual workshop for nonprofit workers (including contractors). If you can donate $10 (or any amount) to help make this event possible, thank you. If you can't contribute financially, please join us and contribute to the conversation.