Eye dilation.

It is irritating and annoying and weird-feeling. I went to my once-a-decade visit to the ophthalmologist this morning (no judgment, please). I remembered quickly why I put it off so long. My dilated eyes -- the whole 'eyes wide open,' pupils the size of lemons experience -- helped the doctor see my eyes clearly. Dilating my eyes doesn't help ME see better in the immediate -- it helps a professional see my eyes clearly. The short-term uncomfortability of dilation is ultimately for my good. Meh.

I wonder...are we open to that kind of examination of our organizations? A wide-eyed examination of our nonprofits and businesses? Dilation isn't fun. Opening our books, our files, our culture and processes WIDE can be painful; but could or would we be vulnerable enough to allow an annual exam by a professional to help us in the long run?

I think it's a question worth pondering. Consider this:

(1) Would a routine, regular review of our organizational health help us be more sustainable?

(2) Could identifying and addressing challenges today position the organization for better long-term health?

Consider the benefits of tolerating a bit of vulnerability today for a thriving future tomorrow and don't put off dilating your eyes - or organization -- for another decade. We're here to help.

-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP