The Hidden Cost of Asking Staff to “Just Get Through It”

In nonprofit work, “just get through it” often becomes the default response to staffing shortages, tight deadlines, and unexpected challenges. Teams rally, pitch in, and push forward because the mission matters. But when overextension becomes a long-term strategy, the hidden costs can quietly undermine your organization.

The first cost is burnout. When staff are consistently asked to carry extra responsibilities, the stress accumulates. Even highly committed employees begin to feel exhausted and disengaged, which affects morale, collaboration, and the quality of work being produced.

Another cost is lost productivity. Overloaded teams are more likely to make errors, miss deadlines, or avoid tackling complex projects altogether. What looks like perseverance on the surface often leads to slower progress and more rework behind the scenes.

Over time, chronic “pushing through” contributes to turnover. When talented staff leave, organizations lose institutional knowledge and spend time and money recruiting and training replacements–often while remaining understaffed during the transition.

Temporary or interim support can relieve pressure before these costs escalate. Temporary staff absorb workload spikes, while interim leaders provide stability and direction during periods of strain. If your team has been carrying too much for too long, start a conversation with us today to explore staffing support that protects your people and your mission.