Community Takes All: The Power of Social+ & The Questions You Should Ask Yourself to Figure Out What You Really Want

Community Takes All: The Power of Social+ & The Questions You Should Ask Yourself to Figure Out What You Really Want

In today's digital age, social interaction has become an integral part of our lives. From social media platforms to online communities, we are constantly seeking connection and community. But what if I told you that the best version of every consumer product is the one that's intrinsically social? This is the concept of Social+.

Social+ companies have a unique and proprietary social graph that is purpose-built for that product. They understand that the social element needs to be integral to the experience, not an afterthought. To be a social+ product, the social element needs to be critical to the overall product experience. It's not just about having a social component, but about creating authentic engagement between the users in the network.

One of the reasons why social+ companies present a unique opportunity is that they're hard to build. From both a product design and a distribution standpoint, creating a social+ product requires thoughtful design and a deliberate social/transactional balance. When the emotional layer and the transactional one are well-designed and mutually reinforcing, that's when the magic happens.

But what about our personal lives? How can we apply the concept of Social+ to figure out what we really want? Often, we find ourselves following traditional paths dictated by societal expectations. We go to college, get married, buy a nice house, and have kids because that's what we're supposed to do. But are these milestones truly fulfilling for us?

The key is to reflect on our values and motivations. What is it that we truly want? When we stray from the path and question the road well-traveled, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. By asking ourselves the right questions, we can uncover our authentic desires and live a more fulfilling life.

Consider what excites you naturally. What are your natural passions and skills? Think about the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Often, our true desires lie in these areas. For example, if you have always had a love for animals and a deep appreciation for loved ones, maybe owning a house with a big yard to rescue dogs and host family get-togethers is what will truly fulfill you.

It's important to differentiate between external and internal motivations. External motivations are driven by societal expectations and pressures. Internal motivations, on the other hand, come from within and align with our true selves. By understanding our internal motivations, we can make decisions that are in line with our authentic desires.

So, how can we apply this concept to our lives? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Reflect on your values and motivations: Take the time to understand what truly matters to you. What are your core values? What motivates you? By aligning your actions with your values, you can live a more authentic and fulfilling life.

2. Question societal expectations: Challenge the traditional paths that have been set for you. Don't be afraid to stray from the norm and explore alternative options. What may work for others may not work for you. Trust your instincts and follow your own path.

3. Embrace the power of community: Humans are social beings, and we crave connection and community. Seek out like-minded individuals who share your passions and interests. Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you. By building a community around your authentic desires, you can find the support and encouragement you need to pursue your true goals.

In conclusion, community is a powerful force. Whether it's in the form of social+ companies or in our personal lives, the integration of social elements can lead to better growth, engagement, retention, and defensibility. By understanding our authentic desires and embracing the power of community, we can live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. Remember, no category is truly won until the social product is built.