I have been thinking for weeks about the focus of my first post of 2026. The past year was marked by surprising news on the national level. Sometimes the news has admittedly “rattled” me, and I haven’t been sure what to think.

Having said that, I have been inspired by those who have cleverly adjusted to the changes we are witnessing, and they have refocused their work in smart and effective ways. They have not stopped in confusion like “deer in the headlights,” as we sometimes say in Texas, but they have kept going. This is one of my personal mantras when it comes to nonprofit fundraising,by the way: keep going no matter the situation in which you find yourself.

Chad Hultz wrote for Military.com on January 22 that military leadership is often defined by action under pressure. “Combat decisions are made with limited time, incomplete information, and real consequences.” Many of the most effective commanders in history shared a common trait that rarely makes headlines: stoicism.

“Not the modern stereotype of emotional detachment, but a disciplined approach to responsibility, restraint, and clear thinking under stress.”

I would argue the best leaders in the corporate and nonprofit sectors today are showing this approach works well during the stressful times in which we find ourselves. I would urge everyone to follow their lead.

I volunteer for three primary organizations with global reach. I observe over the past year they have shown they will not cease to believe in and advance their missions. At times, they forge ahead as if nothing new is occurring. And other times, I notice subtle adjustments in how they describe their work and advance their causes. They are thinking smart.

Saif-ur-Rasul defines smart thinking on LinkedIn in his January 17 article, “What is Smart Thinking?” (which also includes helpful advice for the AI age, by the way):

“Smart thinking is the ability to think clearly, critically, and creatively in order to make effective decisions. It involves analyzing information, questioning assumptions, solving problems logically, and applying knowledge wisely rather than reacting emotionally or blindly accepting outputs from others or from technology. Smart thinking combines critical thinking, reflective thinking, ethical judgment, and adaptability.”

Returning to the article on Military.com, Chad Hultz shares helpful advice from which you might also learn:

Stoic leadership is not theoretical. It shows up in daily behavior across the force:

• Pausing before reacting to bad news
• Owning mistakes without deflection
• Staying focused on the mission during uncertainty
• Leading calmly when others are overwhelmed
• Preparing seriously for failure as well as success

These habits build trust within units and credibility with civilian leaders.”

In closing, I would say take the stoic’s approach. Do not become flustered by confusing events. There will be more of them in the year ahead. Stay focused and always be looking ahead. Contingency plans are always smart thinking.

While many in the nonprofit sector are afraid of dwindling donations, for instance, do not assume this will be the case. Like military, corporate and smart thinking nonprofit leaders, keep going. Keep researching and keep asking. And consider adjusting your approach and language (both verbal and written). Stick to your mission. But rephrase it in ways that will be more palatable and understandable to the skeptical audiences we are encountering today. And keep going.