Building Your Tribe: Creating Powerful Marriages Through The Power Of Connection

Have you ever thought about what keeps some folks living their best lives well into their golden years? Well, here's the scoop: it's all about CONNECTION. It's that thing we all yearn for, and in a recent chat on the Legacy Driven Marriages podcast, your hosts Stephanie and Walt McKinley discussed why finding your tribe is a game-changer for your happiness and relationships.

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Ever heard of those magical "blue zones" where people seem to live forever? Turns out, they've got a secret sauce – a tight-knit community. In these places, it's all about connections, relying on each other, and creating a family-like vibe. Think of daily dinners and dancing, bringing heaps of happiness and joy.

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But let's get real – we've all danced with loneliness and isolation, and it's no party. Stephanie felt it big time when she was a new mom, juggling baby duties solo while I deployed in the military. Walt's no stranger to the loner club either, with 14 moves in 16 years during his childhood. As a couple, we’ve rocked 9 military relocations, making friends from scratch each time.

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The point? We've been there and felt that. If you're currently navigating those "I'm alone in the world" vibes, take a deep breath. We get it and you are not alone. It's a common struggle, especially in today's world, where we're often far from our roots. But guess what? The sun and your happiness will shine again if you're open to stretching yourself a bit.

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When we felt the isolation, we learned that stepping out of our comfort zone was the antidote to the depressive blues that come with feeling lonely. It's hard, no doubt, but remember, being alone is even tougher. You get to choose your hard. And when you look at the stats on the mental and physical toll of loneliness, building a tribe is a must.

Building that tribe is no walk in the park, but it's worth every bit of effort. Seek out like-minded people who share your values and dreams. Start with people living in the same life space as you. If you’re married, find other couples that will help strengthen your marriage. If you’re a parent, find friends with kids the same age. Your connections will be easier because of the understanding that only being in the same life space gives. Sometimes, this means pushing past your introverted side. Be open to new adventures and connections; they're your path to your community. You and your relationships will thrive because of the tribe you build!

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Now that you're on the connection train, it's time to act. Take a look at your life. Do you have a crew of cheerleaders? If not, no worries – it's never too late to start. Here's a blueprint:

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1. Join local groups or organizations that align with your interests and values.

2. Be open and friendly with your neighbors - you never know who you might connect with.

3. Consider online communities or social media groups that focus on your passions.

4. Reach out to old friends or colleagues and suggest catching up.

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Remember, building your tribe takes time. So be cool, take it easy, and enjoy the ride. They say, "You are the company you keep", so surround yourself with those who inspire, uplift, and push you to be the best you.

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Creating these connections and finding your tribe isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a lifeline for your heart, mind, body, and relationship. We're wired for connection, and the effort you put into building a community will pay off in ways you can't even dream of for you and your partner. Take that first step today and meet your kindred spirits.

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Now, go out there and build the thriving, legacy-driven life you've always wanted!

Check out this week's episode on this exact topic:

Ep 38: Where's My Tribe: The Power Of Connection and Community

Walt and Stephanie McKinley are the hosts of the Legacy Driven Marriages Podcast and are dedicated to helping couples get into the arena of their relationship and fight to create lasting legacies. You can find us on every major podcasting platform and on our website Legacy Driven Marriages