If you’re a leader of a nonprofit without a strategic plan then you’re potentially missing out on a tremendous amount of both funding and opportunities to strengthen your organization.

As a nonprofit strategic planning consultant and former executive director and board chair, I’ve seen over and over how nonprofits with effective strategic plans outperform those that don’t.

Picture this: You’re sitting by the window at your monthly board meeting. Through the glass, you can tell it’s a beautiful, sunny day outside. Your board and advisors have decided to create your nonprofit’s strategic plan, but there’s nothing you want to do less than spend your day—or several days—going through the planning process.

You’re not alone if you resent the idea of strategic planning. However, a simple and effective plan is essential in determining success.