You need to implement what you already know. This concept, known as "do more of what already works," is a powerful strategy that can be applied to various aspects of life, including community building.

You need to implement what you already know. This concept, known as "do more of what already works," is a powerful strategy that can be applied to various aspects of life, including community building.

When it comes to finding and building a community, there are certain tried and true principles that can guide us. One of these principles is the importance of having a diverse network of connections. Your community extends beyond just your family and close friends. It includes people from different spheres of your life, such as the other pet parents you meet at the dog park. Having a variety of connections is crucial because relying on just one person to fulfill all your emotional and psychological needs is not healthy.

To truly be part of a community, there are four criteria that need to be met: membership, influence, integration and fulfillment of needs, and shared emotional connection. Membership refers to feeling a sense of belonging, while influence is about making a difference to the group and vice versa. Integration and fulfillment of needs involve meeting each other's needs within the group, and shared emotional connection is built through shared experiences and history. Friendship, on the other hand, is a dedicated and platonic relationship where two individuals support each other's growth and well-being.

While there are many communities that exist online, true community building requires reciprocity. All members must contribute information and support equally for the group to thrive. Finding a community that aligns with your values is essential. This requires introspection and soul-searching to identify what truly matters to you. It's also important to start small when building a community. Real nurturing communities often start in small groups where individuals can form deeper connections and support one another.

Being an active member of a community means continually showing up and adding value. Regularly interacting with others in the group is crucial for building connections and understanding different perspectives. It's not just about receiving energy from others; it's about putting energy into others as well. However, it's important to find a balance and not exhaust yourself in the process.

The goal of community building is not just to make new friends, but to build a network that can support your growth and be mutually beneficial. By being intentional with your time and investing it in individuals who align with your vision for the future, you can create a community that helps you thrive and allows you to contribute to the growth of others.

Now, let's bring in the concept of "do more of what already works." In community building, this means identifying the strategies and actions that have already proven successful and implementing them more frequently. Often, we overlook solutions that we have already discovered because they seem too obvious or mundane. However, these solutions, known as best practices, are often the most effective.

The Keystone ICU Project implemented a checklist strategy at Michigan hospitals, demonstrating the power of utilizing old solutions. We often assume that new solutions are needed to make progress, but that is not always the case. Progress can often be found in the fundamentals and underused insights. It may not be the most exciting approach, but it is proven to work.

When it comes to community building, this means identifying the strategies and actions that have already shown positive results. Instead of constantly searching for new methods, focus on implementing what you already know. This could involve organizing events or activities that have previously brought people together successfully. It could also mean nurturing existing relationships and regularly engaging with the same group of people.

To apply the concept of "do more of what already works" to community building, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Diversify your connections: Build a network that extends beyond your immediate circle of family and friends. Seek out individuals from different spheres of your life who can bring unique perspectives and experiences to the community.

2. Be intentional with your time: Identify the individuals who align with your values and vision for the future. Invest your time in building relationships with these individuals, as they can both support your growth and be open to receiving support from you.

3. Implement proven strategies: Identify the actions and strategies that have already shown positive results in community building. Instead of constantly searching for new approaches, focus on implementing what you already know works. This could involve organizing events or activities that have previously brought people together successfully or nurturing existing relationships.

In conclusion, community building is an essential aspect of our lives. It involves finding a sense of belonging, making a difference within a group, meeting each other's needs, and building shared emotional connections. To build a thriving community, it is important to diversify your connections, be intentional with your time, and implement proven strategies. Additionally, the concept of "do more of what already works" reminds us to value and utilize the solutions and insights we have already discovered. By incorporating these principles, we can create communities that uplift and support one another, making a positive impact on our lives.