"Why community matters so much — and how to find yours. Learn in Public, It’s Great."

"Why community matters so much — and how to find yours. Learn in Public, It’s Great."

Community is an essential aspect of our lives. It encompasses various connections, ranging from our inner circle of family and close friends to the outer rungs of our social network. Having a diverse community is crucial because relying on one person to fulfill all our emotional and psychological needs is not ideal. Gillian Sandstrom aptly points out that finding a community is different from merely making friends.

So, what defines a community? According to the four criteria laid out by Sandstrom, a community is characterized by membership, influence, integration and fulfillment of needs, and shared emotional connection. To truly be a part of a community, we must feel a sense of belonging, make a difference to the group, have our needs met by other members, and share history and experiences together. Friendship, on the other hand, is a dedicated, platonic relationship where both individuals commit to each other's growth and well-being.

While many communities exist online, the element of reciprocity is crucial for a community to thrive. All parties must contribute information and support equally, differentiating it from a mere group. Finding a community that aligns with your interests and values can be as simple as figuring out where you wouldn't mind spending a few hours of your time. Creating something together, whether it's a performance or a neighborhood coat drive, is a beautiful way to build a community.

Identifying your values is vital in finding a community where you truly fit. It might require some introspection and soul-searching. Starting small is perfectly alright; nurturing community begins in small groups. The beauty of a community lies in its ability to bring together people from different stages of life, offering new perspectives and wisdom.

To forge a genuine connection with the group, consistent participation and adding value are necessary. Humans naturally have positive feelings towards familiar faces, so seeing the same people regularly helps you become ingrained within the group and your day-to-day life. Being an active member means regularly interacting with others, as communities are comprised of individuals with diverse opinions and experiences. It's important to put energy into others rather than solely waiting for them to invest in you.

However, it's crucial not to exhaust yourself. The goal of community building isn't solely to make new friends, but to build a network that supports you and your goals. Being intentional with your time and investing it in individuals who align with your future vision is key.

Learning in public is a powerful concept that can enhance your personal growth journey. There are two schools of thought regarding learning, hustling, or creating: do it in silence or show the process and progress publicly. The latter approach has several benefits. Firstly, it creates accountability. When you share your journey publicly, you are more likely to stay committed to your goals. Secondly, it establishes a feedback loop. By sharing your progress, you invite others to provide valuable insights and suggestions. Thirdly, it allows you to see your own progress. Looking back on your journey can be incredibly motivating and help you track your growth. Lastly, learning in public helps establish a community or following. By sharing your work and process, you open the door for ongoing connections with others who resonate with your journey.

Letting go of our egos and sharing our process is vital for progress. Austin Kleon, in his book "Show Your Work!", emphasizes the importance of launching ourselves into the public domain. Creating and sharing our work in public not only helps us move forward but also allows others to have an ongoing connection with us and our work. As journalist David Carr once said, "No one is going to give a damn about your résumé; they want to see what you have made with your own little fingers."

Ultimately, the key to success lies in honing your skills and becoming so good that people can't ignore you. When you focus on improving your craft, the audience will naturally find you. By creating valuable content and consistently showcasing your expertise, you will attract individuals who resonate with your work.

In conclusion, community and learning in public are both integral aspects of personal growth and fulfillment. Finding a community that aligns with your values and interests can provide support, diverse perspectives, and new experiences. Similarly, learning in public helps establish accountability, feedback loops, and connections with others who share your journey. By investing time and energy into these endeavors, you can cultivate a network that contributes to your personal and professional development.

Three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Explore different communities and find one that aligns with your values and interests. Start small and actively participate to build genuine connections.
2. Share your progress and process publicly. Embrace vulnerability and invite feedback from others. This not only helps you stay accountable but also establishes connections with like-minded individuals.
3. Focus on honing your skills and consistently creating valuable content. By becoming exceptional in your field, you will naturally attract an audience that resonates with your work.