The beauty of a career in peer-to-peer fundraising lies in the connections we build along the way, especially with those whose lives are most impacted by our missions—the people we work tirelessly to support each day.

Yet, when so many of these relationships begin with stories of hardship, and fundraising decisions can feel like matters of life and death, it’s easy to experience more than just burnout—it’s something deeper.

Compassion fatigue is a common challenge in nonprofit fundraising. Constant focus on the needs of others can take a heavy emotional toll, and ignoring its reality in favor of “toxic positivity” can lead to decreased performance and increased turnover.

Here are three strategies to help manage it:

Set Emotional Boundaries
While it’s natural to care deeply about the mission, it’s important not to let each challenging story weigh on you personally. Reframe your thoughts to focus on your positive impact, and celebrate small wins along the way.

Create a Supportive Workspace
A culture where team members can openly share emotions and experiences can make a big difference. When people feel supported and connected, it reduces feelings of isolation and stress.

Prioritize Self-Care and Regular Breaks
Self-care is essential for sustaining compassion over time. Prioritize breaks, take time off when needed, and reserve time for activities that recharge you. Even brief, mindful moments can prevent burnout and improve effectiveness.

You and your teams are doing critical work. By balancing empathy with self-care, you can manage compassion fatigue and sustain your passion for making a difference.