In the social impact sector, following conventional wisdom often seems like the safest path. However, my experiences have taught me that challenging the status quo can lead to remarkable progress. Here are three views I’ve embraced as a social impact leader.

1. Profit Isn't a Dirty Word

Many believe that social impact and profit are mutually exclusive. However, I’ve learned that incorporating profit-driven strategies can significantly enhance an organization’s sustainability and impact. By creating revenue-generating activities, social impact organizations can reduce dependency on donations and grants, allowing for greater autonomy and stability. Embracing profit doesn't mean compromising on values; it means ensuring long-term viability to continue driving meaningful change.

2. Don’t Always Follow Best Practices

“Best practices” are often touted as the gold standard. Yet, what works for one organization or community may not work for another. I’ve found that sometimes the best way forward is to question and deviate from these so-called best practices. Innovation often requires stepping outside established norms and experimenting with unconventional methods. By tailoring strategies to fit the unique context and needs of your organization and community, you can achieve more effective and sustainable outcomes- which should, after all, be the point.

3. Success Isn't Always Quantifiable

In a world obsessed with metrics, the success of social impact initiatives is often judged by quantifiable outcomes. However, some of the most significant impacts are qualitative and harder to measure. Building trust within a community, changing mindsets, and fostering a sense of hope are crucial achievements that numbers alone can’t always meaningfully capture. Acknowledging and valuing these intangible successes can provide a more holistic view of your organization’s impact and drive more profound, lasting change.

These often contrarian views have profoundly influenced my approach as a social impact leader. By challenging conventional wisdom, I’ve discovered more sustainable and impactful ways to drive social change. Often for the most marginalized, it’s the unconventional paths that lead to the most meaningful progress.