March 29 - Finding Your Tribe: The Power of Community, Shared Joy, and Connection

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” Michael Jordan

Have you ever felt a surge of pure joy erupt through a crowded stadium as your team scores the winning point? Or maybe you've experienced a profound sense of connection swaying in unison with a thousand strangers at a concert? These moments, Dacher Keltner argues, are more than just fleeting bursts of happiness; they're a testament to the transformative power of community.  In his book, Awe, he delves into the science behind this phenomenon, explaining how "moving in unison" fosters a sense of shared purpose and belonging.

But the power of community extends far beyond shared interests in sports or music. Within our personal relationships, fostering a sense of community can create a strong support system. Molly Maloof, in The Spark Factor, emphasizes the importance of finding your "tribe" – those supportive people who uplift and inspire you.  Celebrating milestones with friends and family, offering a helping hand during tough times, and simply being there to listen – these acts build a foundation of trust and understanding. As Julie Smith reminds us in Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?, "Nourishing good quality relationships is one of the most powerful tools we have in maintaining good mental health."

 Think about the times you've felt most connected to others. Was it during a shared accomplishment, a heartfelt conversation, or maybe even a moment of shared sorrow?  These experiences, big or small, create a sense of "effervescence," as Keltner terms it, a feeling of collective joy and connection.  These connections are essential for our well-being.  Studies have shown that strong social connections can lower stress, boost our immune system, and even increase our lifespan.

“Cherish your human connections, your relationships with friends and family.” Barbara Bush

So, how can you cultivate this sense of community in your own life? Here are a few ideas:

Find Your Tribe: Piastrelli, in Root and Ritual, encourages us to "reach out and find those people" who share your passions and values. Explore clubs, groups, or online communities centered around your interests.

Embrace Shared Rituals: Create traditions with your loved ones, whether it's a weekly game night, a monthly movie marathon, or simply a regular dinner together. These rituals create a sense of continuity and belonging.

Celebrate Every Milestone: Big or small, acknowledge and celebrate the victories of those around you. A promotion, a personal achievement, or even just getting through a tough week – these moments deserve to be recognized.

Practice Empathy and Compassion: Actively listen to your friends and family, offer support during difficult times, and celebrate their joys.

Embrace the Power of "We" over "Me": Shift your focus from individual achievements to shared goals and accomplishments.

Remember, building a community is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to open yourself up to connection. But the rewards are immeasurable.  By fostering a sense of shared joy and support, you'll not only enrich your own life, but also contribute to the well-being of those around you.  So, go forth, find your tribe, and start celebrating the journey together!

Activity: Throw a party for a group of people you share a connection with. It could be a watch party for a favorite show, an 80s themed party for a group of old friends, a tea party for a group of royal watchers, or a garden party for a group of outdoor enthusiasts.

In today's increasingly digital world, it's easy to lose sight of what makes us human. The constant bombardment of screens and social media can distract us from cultivating essential qualities like kindness, empathy, and resilience.

My book, Nurturing Hopeful Resilience,  guides parents and caregivers through the challenges of raising children in a technology-driven age. It explores the importance of instilling strong values in children from a young age to help them develop into compassionate, responsible, and fulfilled individuals.

Through a series of practical exercises and insightful reflections, this book delves into fourteen core values: curiosity, awareness, kindness, learning, self-awareness, fairness, playfulness, compassion, service, belonging, trustworthiness, authenticity, community, and responsibility. Understanding and nurturing these values can empower our children to thrive in a complex and ever-changing world.

This book offers a roadmap for raising children who are academically successful, emotionally intelligent, socially adept, and morally grounded. It encourages readers to prioritize human connection, empathy, and compassion over material possessions and fleeting digital distractions. By embracing the power of values, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.