Importance and Types of Community
People form communities, either in person or online, because
they share common goals and interests. Continue reading to find out why
community is so important for your mental and physical health.
What Exactly Is a Community?
A community is a social group in which people share common
interests such as geography, culture, heritage, government, religion, values,
identity, work, or other common interests. The thread that binds people
together is community.
What Is the Value of Community?
Community is important because it fosters a sense of
purpose, fosters social connections, and provides a support network.
Additionally, communities can:
1. Allow you to respond to change: Individuals may struggle
to deal with crises on their own. Members of a community, on the other hand,
have more people to rely on, which can help them be more resilient in times of
adversity.
2. Increase empathy: Joining a group can help you develop
empathy. When you see others going through difficult times, you may be inspired
to put yourself in their shoes in order to better support them.
3. Introduce some fun into your life: Getting together
virtually or in person to discuss amusing circumstances or to commemorate
important occasions can bring you joy. These events will quickly become happy
memories, leaving you feeling happy, refreshed, and less stressed.
4. Give you a sense of belonging: Spending time with people
who share your values has a positive impact on your attitude and overall
well-being. It can foster togetherness and demonstrate that you are not alone,
giving you a stronger sense of identity.
5. Improve your mental health: Feelings of anxiety, depression,
and isolation are exacerbated by loneliness. A sense of connection with other
people can make you feel less lonely and can help you deal with stress,
anxiety, and other mental health issues.
6. Lead to a new point of view: While members of a community
share some characteristics, they are not the same person. You may be pushed
outside of your comfort zone and confronted with a plethora of new ideas from a
diverse group of people. This will assist you in discovering new points of
view.
7. Make you a better communicator: Immersion in any
community necessitates clear communication of your thoughts. It also entails
learning how to actively listen to and build relationships with members of the
community.
8. Provide assistance: There are times when you need someone
to turn to. Perhaps you simply need to vent after a long day at work, or you
require assistance in resolving a problem. Perhaps you'd like to share your
experiences. Communities provide assistance in both good and bad times.
9. Offer professional development opportunities: Many
professional organizations offer mentorship, leadership opportunities, and
resources to help you advance your career.
10. Motivate you to act: People frequently form communities
in order to effect change. A local PTA, for example, may work to raise funds
for the local school, whereas an environmental organization may focus on a park
cleanup. Groups promote community change, social justice, and community
service, as well as a healthier community overall.
11. Reduce chronic disease risk factors: Public health
studies show that social isolation is associated with chronic physical health
conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, immune disorders, and
cancer.
Geographically Based Communities
If you aren't particularly interested in any hobbies, you
can try to form a community based on where you live:
Rural communities: Rural communities have fewer residents. A
rural community can help you meet and form strong bonds with people who are not
in your social circle.
Suburban communities: Shared experiences, such as attending
the same school or working in the same geographical area or industry, can help
people in suburban areas find common ground.
Urban communities: Millions of people live in urban areas
such as New York City, making it difficult or overwhelming to make new friends
or connections. However, transplants to a metropolitan area or those who have
lived in the area their entire lives can join groups to connect with others who
understand their circumstances.
There Are Four Types of Communities You Can Join
There are numerous types of communities. Religious
organizations, co-op organizations, parent-teacher associations, trade
organizations, governments, and health care organizations have more structure.
Others, such as social networks, study groups, and close friend groups, are
more casual. You can join the following communities:
1. Coworking spaces: Coworking spaces attract freelancers,
remote workers, and those looking to start their own business. If you need
advice on how to raise funds for your business or want to show your boss that
you are productive outside of the office, connecting with others who have faced
similar challenges can be beneficial. There are many physical coworking spaces,
often with private booths, shared workspaces, and plenty of coffee, but there
are also many digital spaces. These areas are welcoming to remote workers.
2. Professional networks: People can join professional
membership organizations in their industry for a fee or for free. These
professional networks frequently host networking events, conferences, and
workshops that help people grow their professional communities.
3. Sports club: Joining a team, such as an adult soccer
league, can connect you with people who share your interests. You can bond over
the sport and the good times you've had as a team.
4. Volunteer organizations: To address social justice issues
or complete a community service project, you can start a volunteer organization
or work with a nonprofit. In any case, it's an opportunity to connect with
others who want to make a difference in the world.