Being a part of a community is special. It means that you’re surrounded by a group of people with whom you have something in common. In the sense of where you live, your community might be a group of people who all love living in the mountains, the city, or near the beach. Maybe your community is a book club that lives for a good science–fiction read. Or maybe for you, it’s a team striving toward a common goal.
As members of our communities, we have an obligation to improve them in any way we can. And in doing so, we don’t just better them for ourselves, but for the future. So, what steps can you take to improve the various communities that you’re a part of? Here are some of our tips!
Increase connection.
Get to know people! And we don’t just mean making small talk about the weather at planned social events. We mean taking a deeper dive, opening up to people, and starting meaningful conversations!
Did your palms start sweating as you read that last sentence? We get it! Social settings are not the most comfortable place for everyone. Don’t worry, we aren’t suggesting that you walk up to someone, introduce yourself, and immediately rattle off your entire life story. But taking those extra steps to build deeper connections with people is essential to building a trusting, tight-knit community over time.
Become a mentor.
We’ve all got talents! Some of us are great cooks, leaders, athletes, speakers, and so on. But what are talents worth if we’re not willing to share them with others? That’s what makes mentors such an essential part of any growing community!
Above all else, mentorship takes a deep desire to help others succeed. It’s the realization that we all rise by bettering each other, rather than competing against one another. Check out this article for some tips on how you can be the best mentor possible. After all, a positive, supportive community is the ultimate goal … and this is just one step to helping you create it!
Step up to help.
All communities need people who are willing to step up to the plate. So, instead of being the person hiding in the back when help is needed, get involved! In your town, help to organize a clean-up day. If you’re a part of a club, raise your hand to help plan an event. Yes, it will take some of your time, but if you have the time to give, this is the perfect opportunity to give back!
Research proves that there are some huge personal benefits to lending a hand. You might find that you’re happier and you have a better sense of purpose by becoming more involved. So, while you’re working to improve the lives of those around you, you’re also improving your own. It’s a win-win!
Be a good person.
The golden rule. The rule that’s essential not just to improve your community, but to any part of your life. Be nice, be a good person, be someone who people want to hang around with. It seems so simple … and that’s because it is. You would be surprised at the impact you can have by just being kind to others!
What can you do today to make someone’s life a little bit easier? Whatever you have in mind, do it (and if you can’t think of anything, check out this article)! The truth is, simple acts of kindness are what being a part of a community is all about. And you can improve yours by just being a warm, good-hearted person.
You love your community. It’s an essential building block of who you are! But while it may be a great, safe, comfortable place, there is always room for improvement. And that improvement starts with you!
