Finding Community
I’m writing this from Da Nang, and I’m a little stunned by the connections I’ve made here.
The day I arrived, I came straight from the airport, dropped my bags, and headed to a digital nomads event. The first people I met were a couple I clicked with immediately. We’ve gotten together several times since then, and we’re already talking about meeting up again this time next year and even them coming to see us in Sevilla next spring.
Since then, I’ve gone to a freelancers gathering and met more lovely, creative, like-minded people from all over the world. I’ve had a few really moving, empowering Saboteur Discovery Sessions that have inspired me as much as they’ve helped them.
Last night I was invited to a family Lunar New Year dumpling party, and their generosity blew me away, especially the care they took to include me. We filled wrappers, laughed a lot, and ended up comparing Duolingo streaks. I was so touched to be there.
It has me thinking about how community actually happens.
Community Isn’t Built-In Forever
When I moved abroad, I immediately joined groups because I knew we needed community fast. But community loss happens, even when you stay put.
A lot of people go through transitions and suddenly the built-in channels disappear, like graduation, starting remote work, an empty nest, divorce, or your old friends are suddenly busy with a different life.
It Starts With Showing Up
If that’s you, I want to say this clearly: community can be rebuilt, and it usually starts with one awkward decision to show up somewhere new.
Commit to one thing: whether it’s a class, a meetup, a walking group, a coworking space, a language exchange, or volunteering. Take it from an introvert – the first time is the toughest and then it gets easier.
Connection can be immediate, and it grows when you keep showing up.
💛
Reflection Question: Where could you show up this month, even if you don’t feel like you belong there yet?
✨ If this spoke to you, I’d love for you to subscribe to my blog or connect with me on LinkedIn. And if you’re in a place in your life where community feels distant or you’re craving deeper connection, coaching can support you in rebuilding it with more self-trust and less overthinking.
You can always start with a free Saboteur Discovery Session.
One of my favorite parts of this week has been stumbling upon beautiful hidden places, like this garden café (with an amazing mango salted cream tea, by the way).
Then I step outside and it’s full celebration.
And the next thing you know, you’re making dumplings with people who were strangers a week ago.
