Building Community
2020 was a year filled with challenges. So many felt the struggles of isolation and loneliness. These are challenges that will likely be coming along into this new year. Let’s take 2021 as an opportunity to find a new perspective on this situation and to find new ways to deal with the continued need for social distancing.
Building and finding community is no easy task in the best of times, but with all that is going on in the world, it can seem harder than ever. The reality is that people are seeking community and connection, people are willing to try new things on the path of coming together. There is never a wrong time to make connections with people!
Volunteering
Volunteering might look different for the time being, but building those connections at a distance and finding a purpose and passion with a cause is a great way to find continued connections. You may not be meeting with large groups of people, working towards a common goal, but remote work is an excellent way to find people with similar interests and values.
Faith groups
Many faith communities are continuing virtual gatherings. If you’ve been hesitant to visit new in-person places of worship in the past (because let’s be honest, it can feel intimidating to enter a new place!), now is a good time to make a virtual visit. Again, finding others with similar values is a wonderful way to seek out community.
Learning opportunities
Pursue a passion, learn something new, and meet people! Yoga, art classes, local community college courses — there are innumerable opportunities to learn and connect with others. Many of these are virtual or distanced for the time being. And, finding a group that you enjoy now will transfer to the future when meeting in person is again a safe option.
Social media
Social media often gets a bad rap. But, when used purposefully, it is an effective tool for building and finding community and connection. Join groups based on your interests, reach out to people you’ve lost contact with. Many hobbies, podcasts, cities, faith groups, etc. have social media opportunities to make connections with others.
Letter writing
There are many benefits of writing, and one of them is its ability to help you connect with others. Find a penpal, write to an old friend or family member you’ve fallen out of touch with. There is something about writing a letter (or sending an email) that creates a connection unlike a phone call or text message. Plus, who doesn’t love waiting for a piece of mail that’s actually personally for you?
Create what you’re looking for!
Start a blog or Youtube channel. Create a Facebook group or Instagram account. Invite people to a Zoom happy hour or game night. Find a safe space to hold an outdoor, distanced gathering. You are far from alone in wanting more connection and a stronger community. People will join you! So, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, create it!
2021 needs to be the year of connection and community. We are always seeking these relationships, now more than ever. It can feel overwhelming to think about trying to connect with others, but actually doing the work and reaching out is more simple than we often think. Make those connections, build relationships, and find the community that you need.
