Building a community—your tribe—isn’t just a “nice to have”; it’s necessary for growth, accountability, and support. Whether in-person or online, your tribe can be a unique source of encouragement and help you see your blind spots.
We have all heard the saying “It takes a village, ” which is more relevant than ever. Not only for raising children but for thriving as adults. Here’s a closer look at the importance of building your tribe and how your personal community can inspire you to live a more intentional, purpose-driven life.
The Heart of Community: Why Having a Tribe Matters
We are wired for connection. Community offers us a space to share, learn, and grow together, creating a strong sense of belonging and support.
You may call them your “besties” or “girl gang” or “friend group”.
In times of change or challenge, our tribe can act as a safety net by offering comfort, perspective, and encouragement.
Beyond just comfort, though, your community plays a role in your journey of self-discovery and helps you move towards your goals with renewed clarity and commitment.
Emotional Support and Encouragement
Life can feel overwhelming, and going it alone can amplify the stress. Your tribe offers the reassurance that you’re not alone.
Whether it’s your friends, family, or online connections, your community is there to remind you of your strengths, cheer you on, and give you that much-needed confidence boost. They remind you that it’s okay to stumble, to struggle, and to take breaks as you work towards your purpose.
Insight Into Your Unique Gifts and Blind Spots
We’re the last ones to see what we’re truly good at or recognize areas where we can grow.
vm
Having trusted people around you helps you recognize your strengths, even the ones you might take for granted. Community feedback can be like a mirror, reflecting back your potential and helping you identify your “superpowers.”
On the flip side, they also help you see your blind spots, areas where you might be limiting yourself or missing an opportunity for growth. With this insight, you can start making intentional changes that line up with what matters most to you.
Accountability and Motivation to Stay on Track
Let’s face it—staying motivated can be hard, especially when you hit life’s detours. Your tribe can help you stay on course, holding you accountable when you feel like giving up or getting distracted.
Knowing that others are invested in your growth can be a powerful motivator to keep you moving forward. Your tribe reminds you of the bigger picture, pushing you to show up as your best self even on days when the couch is calling.
In-Person or Online Community, What’s Right for You?
In our digital world, our new normal, we can feel more lonely than ever.
Community has evolved beyond just family gatherings or neighborhood clubs. The power of technology means we can connect with people from across the globe who share our values, passions, and aspirations. But how do in-person and online communities differ, and how can each support you?
In-Person Communities
Meeting face-to-face offers a unique level of connection. In-person interactions allow for deeper communication and foster a sense of trust that can sometimes be hard to replicate online.
The physical presence of others has a grounding effect, whether it’s in a coffee shop with a close friend, at a local meetup, or within a professional networking group. In-person communities offer that warm, human touch, making it easier to open up and form lasting bonds. The in-person connection is enhanced by experiencing it with all of our senses making it more memorable.
Online Communities
The rise of online communities has broken down geographical boundaries, allowing us to find “our people” no matter where they live. Whether it’s a niche Facebook group, an industry forum, or a virtual mastermind group, online communities provide 24/7 support, ideas, and inspiration.
They can be especially valuable for those in remote areas or with busy schedules, providing flexibility and a broad range of perspectives. The beauty of online communities is that they’re often hyper-focused, meaning you can connect deeply with people who understand your unique challenges and goals.
Blending Both Worlds
Often, the most enriching community experiences come from a mix of both in-person and online connections.
I have continued to keep in touch with friends online that I met in person at a conference or retreat; and my online connections often say, “I wish we could meet in person!”
Consider building a balance- the tangible support of people close by and the endless resources and connections of the digital world. This hybrid approach gives you the best of both worlds, allowing you to tap into your tribe anytime, anywhere.
Photo credit https://www.instagram.com/jessicamcintoshphoto/
How Your Tribe Helps You Step into Your Purpose
Building a supportive community isn’t just about finding people to “hang out” with. It’s about surrounding yourself with those who help you elevate your potential and you helping to elevate theirs.
There is a wonderful dynamic in truly intimate tribes where there is input and output. You grow through what you invest in.
All of us have times of needing help and offering help.
Here are some of the key ways your tribe can guide you, (and you can guide them), as you all work toward fulfilling your purpose.
Helping You Identify and Harness Your Unique Gifts
Often, it’s others who recognize our unique talents before we do. Your tribe can see your strengths, sometimes better than you can, and can encourage you to use these gifts in meaningful ways. Maybe you have a natural knack for leadership, a creative streak that you haven’t fully tapped into, or a way of inspiring others that could serve a bigger purpose.
With the right people around you, you’ll be more likely to lean into these strengths, and before long, you’ll find yourself achieving things and blessing others in ways you never thought possible.
Offering Constructive Feedback and Revealing Blind Spots
Friends may tell you what you want to hear; true friends tell you what you need to hear. While it’s not always easy to accept, it’s essential for growth.
When you have people who are invested in your success, they’ll kindly point out patterns or habits that may be holding you back. This honesty is invaluable—it helps you grow into a more intentional and purpose-driven version of yourself.
Holding You Accountable to Your Goals and Commitments
Accountability is one of the most powerful motivators. When you declare a goal to your people—whether it’s launching a business, changing careers, or prioritizing self-care—you’re far more likely to stick with it.
Your tribe acts as a gentle reminder to stay committed, cheering you on, offering resources, and keeping you focused on what matters. The encouragement and accountability of your community are like fuel that keeps you moving forward, even when your motivation dips.
Inspiring You to Dream Bigger
Surrounding yourself with people who are passionate about growth will naturally inspire you to stretch your own ambitions. When you see your friends taking bold steps, making changes, or pursuing dreams, it creates a ripple effect.
You start to see your own potential, breaking free from the noise in your head and embracing the mindset that anything is possible. Your tribe expands your vision, encouraging you to chase after goals you might have otherwise kept on the back burner.
Building Your Tribe, Where to Start?
If you’re looking to build or expand your community, start with an intentional vision. Start thinking about the people in your life that help you get where you want to go and those who don’t.
Reach out to friends who may be looking for the same connection you are. I’ve texted friends and said, “I’m thinking of you and miss getting together. Why do we not make that a priority?” Usually, they respond telling me they were feeling the same way and couldn’t believe the perfect timing of a simple text message.
Where do you need to fill in the gaps?
- Join groups or attend events that align with your passions – This could be professional networking events, interest-based meetups, or online forums.
- Reconnect with people you admire – Reach out to friends or acquaintances whose values resonate with yours. You might be surprised by how many are also looking to expand their community.
- Engage in online communities – Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and even specific community apps like Meetup or Clubhouse are great places to connect with like-minded people.
- Create your own group – If you can’t find a community that speaks to you, consider starting one. There’s a good chance others are looking for the same kind of connection.
The Journey Is Better Together
In a world that often values individualism, or tells us everyone else has it all together, it’s easy to forget how essential it is to have others by our side.
Building a tribe isn’t just about surrounding yourself with people; it’s about finding those who make you feel seen, valued, and inspired to be the best version of yourself. Together, we can encourage each other, recognize one another’s gifts, and hold each other accountable to live with purpose and intention.
Why not start now? Reach out, connect, and build your tribe. Embrace the strength and support that comes from a community, and let it transform not only your journey but the lives of everyone you inspire along the way.
Ever find yourself talking about “Someday” like it’s the 8th day of the week? Day after day, you stick to your familiar routine, all the while dreaming of that elusive “Someday”…
When life throws a curveball, it’s easy to feel lost, uneasy, or dissatisfied. These feelings might be tough, but they can also be the fuel that moves you forward on your journey to new possibilities!
Join a group of like-minded women who get it and get you. We’re here to encourage each other, find our voices, dream big, and map out the best route to reach our goals.
Let’s embark on a road trip together, setting our GPS to your “Someday” dream—the destination where your purpose lives. Along the way, we’ll share road snackable wisdom, navigate detours, and tackle any construction that pops up.
Road trips are always better with friends, and I call shotgun! Join us and turn your “Someday” into today.
XOXO đź’™ Valerie
Add a comment