Where Does Belonging Happen?

Last week, I shared a common occurrence in coaching, women in search of a safe place, a sense of belonging where they can experience true connection and value for simply who they are, not what they bring to the table. In that blog, I defined belonging and why it matters. (You can find it on my website, under Blog.) This week, let's explore where we can find it, for those of us still looking.

A sense of belonging, like many things, starts at home. It begins within, accepting yourself fully for who you are, without conditions. You are a treasure, a gift. Aside from what you can do, you are enough. You are worthy of love and belonging. (Thank you Brene Brown for teaching me this years ago.) Our family and close friends are great place for connection. But unfortunately, many of us may have grown up in families where vulnerability wasn't practiced, there wasn't even language around it. If this was your experience you probably found your connection in close friends that became like family, me too. But if your family did this well, that's fantastic and will certainly be an asset to your journey.

Groups and clubs can be a great starting place for connection and belonging. Even something as simple as a bookclub, where you can show up and dig into the literature together. This can create great bonds of friendships. Professional network groups can also give you a space to use your voice and are great avenue to try when searching for a place to belong.

What do you feel passionate about? What organizations share your passions that you'd like to volunteer with? Another place many women find belonging is in Faith communities. Shared values hold a lot of potential for belonging. And lastly, don't forget about creativity. Gathering around a table with paint, fabric, or words, (you choose the craft or hobby) laughter filling the room as you share your ideas and hearts, these are the moments where belonging takes root.

Take a Screenshot

I created the above image for you to save to your phone as a reminder of all the possible options you have. Take a few minutes and make your own list of places that interest you. You can also use Social Media as part of your search. Ask for suggestions of who might already be a part of one of these groups and give it a try. You don't have to make any commitments to try on different opportunities until you find one that fits. When you make this list, maybe you recognize that you have a group but the bond isn't deep. Do you want that to be a bigger part of your life, or the people that share that with you to be a bigger part of your life? That's a great starting place. This search could also reconnect you with an old friend. Where ever it takes you, there's no rush and no commitments necessary, aside from a commitment to yourself to be true to your values and your needs.

Belonging grows where you show up as your authentic self. This week, take one small step, make a list of potential opportunities, reach out, or explore a new space. Because you are worthy of connection, and the place where you belong are waiting to welcome you.

Much love,

PS...Next Week I will be sharing a new project I've been working on!!! Stay tuned!

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