Over the last 4 months I have been reminded many times of the power of community. Before I explain why let’s look at the definition of the word “community”.
Wikipedia defines community as “A community is a social unit of any size that shares common values, or that is situated in a given geographical area (e.g. a village or town). It is a group of people who are connected by durable relations that extend beyond immediate genealogical ties, and who usually define that relationship as important to their social identity and practice.”
The reason I have been reminded of the power of community is that I have had some health challenges over these last months. The support I have received has been a constant reminder to me of the importance of a community.
No one can do it all alone and we do draw strength from each other.
“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”
― Mother Teresa
I have realized there are different types of communities in my life.
1. The power of community – Local
I suspect that once a community was very much a village or a town. I live in a holiday type town on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland Australia. Because of the nature of the town there is a strong sense of community here. I never experienced this living in cities and I have grown to love the power of community.
People support each other and have a strong sense of belonging.
2. The power of community – family and friends
Here I am referring to family or friends who may live anywhere in the world but we feel connected to them. These people form a different type of community in our lives than perhaps our local geographical community.
I know I have friends from years back who I do not see very regularly however I have a deep connection with them. These people are there for us when we need a friend.
3. The power of community – online world
For those of us who came to the Internet to build a business we have developed our online communities.
For me personally I have some wonderful friends I have met online that I am yet to meet in the flesh. The bonds we share are strong.
4. The power of community – networks
There is a category of networks such as business networks, sporting clubs, gyms and many other types of networks where strong bonds are often formed.
One such community in my life has come about because of a workshop I did many years ago called Money and You. The communities from that course still live on today.
When I started reflecting on this particular community I realized just how many friends I have from those days. There was a special bond formed with many people.
“Every successful individual knows that his or her achievement depends on a community of persons working together.” Paul Ryan
We all need to feel like we belong to something. We all need to have a sense of community.
Have an amazing day!
Namaste
Sue
Helen Lingard says
The power of a Community – yes its just amazing Sue – our Community, in EN, the TILT community – Just incredible.. some people call it a village, whatever you call it – its Absolutely wonderful 🙂
Sue Price says
Our community in both EN and TILT is amazing Helen and wonderful to be a part of it. Hey and I met you because of it. Thanks for your comment.
Akaahan Terungwa says
Hi Sue,
To succeed anywhere, a community is necessary. Often, it even goes beyond a mere ‘community’ though – success may require a vibrant community with a deep sense of belonging.
It’s an awesome idea that you’ve fitted excellently well in the ones you belong to – not everyone is lucky to have or fit into one.
Be certain to make the day great.
Always,
Akaahan Terungwa
Sue Price says
Hi Terungwa,
Yes a community is necessary and I agree it does require a deep sense of belonging.
I am blessed to have found several I fit into well. When I reflect on my life there have been many along the way.
Thank you for your comment here.
You too have a great day.
Sue
Sheena Yap Chan says
having a community is huge, makes your business alot more fun and easy
Sue Price says
Thanks Sheena it sure does.
Angie HI says
Lovely post. Being part of a community is essential and such a great thing! Thanks Sue
Sue Price says
It sure is Angie. None of us can do it alone. Thanks for your comment.
Mark Eaves says
Community. The saying that we came for the $$$ but stayed for the feeling is ALL from the feeling we get from the community we joined. Great post and I hope you are feeling better!!!
Sue Price says
That is so very true Mark. I think the community is why most of us stay. Thanks for your comment.
Carol Lind says
Such a thought provoking message and one that is right on target. I found so inspiration in your message. Community is necessary in any walk of life but especially in business. It’s vital and your business will thrive if we lean on the community to help and support us. Great message.
Sue Price says
Thanks for your comment Carol. I agree community is important in any part of life and especially in business.
Rory Singh says
Truth! Yes there is great POWER in Community. We is always way more powerful than ‘I”. Tried being a ‘Lone Wolf’ and as cool as that sounds, it is one of the worst things that I could have ever done to myself. Thanks Sue!
Sue Price says
Thanks Rory, I am glad you agree with my thoughts in this post. I love how you have said “We is always way more powerful than ‘I” ” that is so very true.
Shauna Walker says
The power of community is truly something. It wasn’t until I got into this industry that I got that. Yeah my family and what friends I have are supportive but not like my online community of fellow bloggers.
Sue Price says
It is interesting isn’t it Shauna how our online community can be our biggest supporters. I am like you and for me that is where I get most support. Thanks for your comment.
Saurav Kumar Nayak says
Hi Sue, Namaste !
It is wonderful to see you back. I wish you’ll recover your health soon.
We all have that group of people who always stand by us in deep trouble. It can be Neighbours, family, online people or colleagues.
We always feel wonderful when lot of people care for us. If we are in trouble they give us hope and motivation that everything will be alright.
I have many friends who always give me good advice whenever I needed.
Thanks for sharing.
With regards,
Saurav
Sue Price says
Hi Saurav and Namaste!
My health is improving day by day and it is wonderful to be back.
Through my illness I have found that there are many people who were there for me. It is a wonderful feeling and does give us hope as you say.
It is great you too have many friends who are there when you need them.
Thank you for your comment here.
Sue