Patton’s Pick: Let Them

Leadership Resources for the Philanthropic Sector

This edition of Patton’s Picks features Let Them by Mel Robbins, a timely and powerful reminder that great leadership sometimes requires letting go. Her viral “Let Them” concept might seem simplistic, but it's a liberating approach to navigating interpersonal dynamics — especially relevant for nonprofit leaders navigating boards, donors, staff, and family expectations.

Here are key takeaways aligned with our Mastermind leadership framework:

Mindset & Clarity

• Letting go of control is a mindset shift that opens up clarity.

• You can’t prevent people from misunderstanding you — and you don’t have to.

Communication & Influence

• Set boundaries without apology. Let them react — that’s not yours to carry.

• You communicate strength through calm detachment.

Systems & Strategy

• Release the urge to micromanage and watch your systems reveal their gaps (and strengths).

• Energy spent on pleasing is energy lost for strategic planning.

Relationships & Networking

• Let people show you who they are — and believe them.

• True partnerships don’t require constant persuasion.

Productivity & Focus

• Prioritize peace over perfection. Letting go is a productivity strategy.

• Releasing the need to manage others' opinions frees time for mission-critical work.

Dr. Patton McDowell, CFRE, MBA, is the creator of the innovative PMA Mastermind Leadership Program, a unique offering designed to elevate nonprofit leaders through comprehensive training and peer collaboration. He is also the author of the best-selling book, Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, and host of the weekly podcast with the same name, available here. Since founding PMA Nonprofit Leadership in 2009, Patton has strategically guided over 300 nonprofit organizations to achieve their fullest potential. A Certified Fundraising Executive and Master Trainer for AFP Global, he serves as Executive in Residence at Cornell University's Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy and as Director of the Institute for Philanthropic Leadership.

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