Building Community- But How?!
I want a community! I want to find my people! These are words I hear more and more as a therapist. Humans are DESPERATE for connection. This isn’t just a preference either, in this study in the The Journal of Health and Social Behavior, sociology researchers at the University of Texas at Austin, cited “consistent and compelling evidence linking a low quantity or quality of social ties with a host of conditions,” So if our happiness and our health is dependent on us feeling connected, how do we achieve that?
Step one is pretty easy, list the top 3 activities that you enjoy and then do a basic internet search for groups of people doing those things in your area. Look at places like meetup.com for board game clubs, bowling leagues or a book club. Step two is more difficult, you must actually attend such a group. Leave your warm and safe house and walk into a group of strangers. Not sure what to say? Talk about the reason you have gathered in the first place. These people haven’t come together to necessarily share their deepest secrets, they just want some friendly humans to bowl with!
What if nothing exists that interests you? Well this step is even harder, but incredibly important. Start one! Almost everyone states that community involvement and “giving back” are important to them. Contributing to your community means building things that will make it stronger and better, getting your hands dirty to improve the lives of those around you, well here is your chance. Be the change you wish to see in the world, step out of your comfort zone and start that club, plan the first dinner party or organize the first fundraiser. Somebody has to do it, why not you?
