The Study Habit - Why Every Nonprofit Leader Needs to Keep Learning

Let’s be real for a moment—leading a nonprofit isn’t for the faint of heart. It takes grit, faith, compassion, and vision to lead mission-driven work in communities where resources are tight and the needs are great. But, there’s one powerful secret weapon that separates great nonprofit leaders from the rest: a habit of study.

You see, leadership isn’t something you “arrive” at. It’s something you grow into—every day. That’s why developing a regular study habit is one of the most transformational things you can do as a nonprofit leader.

Whether you’re leading a grassroots initiative or overseeing a multimillion-dollar organization, the challenges in our sector are constantly evolving. If you want to lead with excellence—not just passion— you must commit to lifelong learning.

Here’s what a study habit can do for you:

• It sharpens your strategic thinking. You’ll start seeing around corners and making decisions with greater clarity.

• It builds confidence. Whether you’re speaking to funders, your board, or the media, knowledge empowers your voice.

• It fuels innovation. You’ll stay ahead of trends in philanthropy, leadership, and social impact.

• It keeps you grounded. Let’s be honest—burnout is real. A steady study habit reconnects you to your purpose and reignites your why.

  
  

As the Motivational Muse, I always say: “Great leaders don’t just hustle. They study the mission, the movement, and themselves.”

For training, speaking, coaching, and more for your business or nonprofit, contact the Motivational Muse today!

How to Make Study a Leadership Habit

You don’t need a PhD or a library card the size of Texas to start studying. Here’s how I recommend nonprofit leaders build a meaningful study habit:

1. Schedule it. Block 30 minutes a day or set aside quiet time on the weekends. Protect it like you would a Board meeting.

2. Be intentional. Study what feeds your mission, stretches your mind, or strengthens your leadership.

3. Journal the gems. Take notes, highlight quotes, and jot down action steps for your team.

4. Learn in community. Join a leadership book club, attend webinars, or grab coffee with other changemakers to discuss what you’re reading.

5. Put it into practice. Use your insights in board meetings, grant writing, staff coaching—wherever your leadership shows up.

   
   

My Personal Must-Reads for Nonprofit Leaders

These are books and resources I personally recommend to the leaders I coach, and I come back to them often myself. Also, it doesn't matter the vehicle to reading that you choose. It ca be an audio book, on your tablet or phone, or a leather-bound copy from your favorite classic author, just commit to learning and you will grow in your career and in your capacity to lead.

Leadership & Personal Growth

• Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

• Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

• Atomic Habits by James Clear

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

• Leadership Agility by Bill Joiner and Stephen Josephs

Nonprofit Excellence

• Forces for Good by Leslie Crutchfield & Heather McLeod Grant

• Nonprofit Management 101 by Darian Rodriguez Heyman

• The Five Most Important Questions You Will Ever Ask About Your Organization by Peter F. Drucker

Fundraising & Communication

• The Generosity Network by Jennifer McCrea & Jeffrey C. Walker

• Storytelling for Grantseekers by Cheryl A. Clarke

• Fundraising for Social Change by Kim Klein

Equity & Inclusion

• The Inclusive Leader by Dr. Artika R. Tyner

• Biases by Kimberly Bussey Lewis – A bold, introspective look at how personal and systemic biases shape our work, decisions, and leadership

• A Seat At The Table or A Part of the Meal by Kimberly Bussey Lewis – A must-read for nonprofit and civic leaders navigating power dynamics, equity, and representation in leadership

Get your copies of my books here:  Purchase Now (https://www.motivationalmuse.com/shop)

Innovation & Impact

• Impact the World by Carrie Rich and Dean Fealk

• Lean Impact by Ann Mei Chang

• New Power by Jeremy Heimans & Henry Timms

  
  

Becoming an effective leader and remaining relevant requires consistent professional and personal development. Anything less is a disservice to your organization, your community and yourself.