The Power of Community: Building Your Support System When Starting Over

Think about the last time you truly felt heard in your community. Was it a local council meeting? Joining forces with a neighbor to complete a project? Neighborhood game night?

If nothing’s jogging your memory, you’re absolutely not alone. In a public statement from the US Surgeon General on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community, “social isolation among older adults alone accounts for an estimated $6.7 billion in excess Medicare spending annually.” And that’s just in populations of folks who have seen increased isolation for years.

The isolation among younger adults is a little more fresh, but it’s just as devastating to our emotional, physical, and mental health and well-being.

On the flipside? Building your support system intentionally through your community – whether that’s your neighborhood or an online community – is one of the most important structures you can give yourself when starting over.

Identifying Needs and Resources

You’ve chosen your fresh start. You’re forging full-steam ahead. So how do you continue to reinforce your reinvention?

Begin by understanding what support you need.

Perhaps you're seeking creative inspiration, professional guidance, or simply connection with like-minded individuals. Your local community likely offers extensive resources! Here are a few places to take a look.

? Local recreation centers for classes and workshops, including art, music, business, and more

? Professional associations hosting networking events

? Community centers providing emotional support groups

? Libraries organizing book clubs, classes, and learning circles

? Religious or spiritual communities offering fellowship

These spaces aren’t just places; they’re gateways to building your support network.

Cultivating Authentic Relationships

Building meaningful connections requires intentional effort and genuine engagement on your part, and if you go into each situation with an open mind (and heart!), you are more likely to make a connection that lasts.?

Start by seeking out spaces, both in-person and virtual, where you naturally feel drawn to participate.?

A local painting class might help you rediscover your creativity while connecting with fellow artists, while a business networking group could provide mentorship and guidance for your entrepreneurial journey. An online course might provide tools and a structure for learning a new skill while meeting people in the same boat.?

These relationships develop gradually through regular participation, open communication, and shared experiences. Go for it!

Engaging with Diverse Communities

One of the richest aspects of community engagement is connecting with people from various backgrounds and experiences. This diversity provides different perspectives as you navigate your fresh start! Consider joining cultural organizations, participating in intergenerational mentorship programs, or volunteering with organizations that serve diverse populations.?

Contributing Back to Your Community

A thriving support system is built on reciprocity, right?

Here’s your invitation: as you receive support from your community, look for ways to give back. Perhaps you can mentor others who are starting over, share your skills through workshops, or organize support groups.?

Whichever way you choose, try out the intention of creating a positive cycle of engagement that strengthens your network while providing personal fulfillment.

Remember, building a support system through community engagement isn't just about having people around you - it's about creating meaningful connections that sustain and inspire you as you write your next chapter.?

Your community is rich with opportunities for connection, growth, and mutual support. The key is taking that first step and introducing yourself.

Speaking of introductions! We’d love to hear from you through email; when you subscribe to the Permission to Start Over community, you’re always invited to share your thoughts, reflections, appreciation, and connections. Subscribe here: https://permissiontostartover.com/subscribe.

In community with you,

Emily