The Danger of “We’ve Always Done It This Way”

Long-term board members often bring a wealth of institutional knowledge, but this strength can become a weakness when it leads to resistance to change. Sometimes things are done a certain way for a good reason but sometimes that reason is only “because we’ve always done it that way.”  The phrase “We’ve always done it this way” can signal stability—or stagnation. Here’s why this mindset can be problematic:

It Stifles Innovation  

Nonprofits operate in a world that’s constantly evolving. New technologies, shifting donor expectations, and emerging social issues require agility and fresh approaches. When a board clings to outdated practices, it risks missing opportunities to better serve its mission.

A board that insists on using traditional in-person fundraising methods might overlook the power of online campaigns, which can reach a broader audience at a lower cost.

It Ignores Changing Stakeholder Needs

Your stakeholders—beneficiaries, donors, and employees—are not static. What worked ten years ago might not meet their needs today. A refusal to reassess and adapt can alienate key supporters.

A nonprofit that hasn’t embraced diversity in leadership might find itself out of step with a younger, more socially conscious donor base.

It Creates Blind Spots

Longstanding practices can become habits that no one questions, even when they’re no longer effective. These blind spots can lead to inefficiencies or even ethical lapses.

An organization relying on outdated financial oversight practices may miss red flags that modern accounting software could catch.

It Discourages Fresh Perspectives

New board members or staff may hesitate to propose innovative ideas if they sense a “that’s not how we do things here” culture. This can limit the organization’s potential for growth and adaptation.

Breaking the Cycle: How to Move Forward  

To counteract the inertia of “We’ve always done it this way,” boards can take proactive steps:

Regularly review practices: Schedule annual reviews of policies, procedures, and strategic goals to ensure they align with current realities.

Welcome new voices: Encourage contributions from newer members or outside experts who can provide fresh perspectives.

Ask tough questions: Create a culture where challenging the status quo is seen as a strength, not a threat.

Embrace pilot projects:  Test new approaches on a small scale before rolling them out organization-wide.

By recognizing and challenging this mindset, seasoned board members can lead with both wisdom and adaptability, ensuring their organization remains effective and forward-looking.