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Looking to expand your social circle? Low Entropy Volunteer Writer Joelle Chia has five tips for finding your entourage.

 

“What is important is family, friends, giving back to your community and finding meaning in life.” These words said by Adrian Grenier may seem simple, but they shed light on the importance of kinship. In this context, community is a group of like-minded individuals who share similar ideas, beliefs and experiences, and who seek to feel less alone in their individual quest. Everybody’s existing communities differ, and each person is at a different stage in their life. It can be difficult to find an understanding and accepting group of people. Some may even feel that they don’t belong or fit in with their current groups, and if that’s you – not to worry! Your community could help you navigate life through thick and thin. Here are five tips to find the right community and nurture these healthy relationships:

 

1. Assess your personal needs and wants

 

The first step is to consider where you are in your life. Perhaps you are a freshman at a new college, or maybe you just moved into an unfamiliar neighborhood. Regardless of how far along you are in life, ask yourself: “What exactly am I looking for, and what challenges do I currently face?” You may come to a conclusion that, after moving to a new college away from home, loneliness arises from being thrust into a new environment where you do not have the support system you once had. This question and answer process will operate your drive to search for community. When you state your needs, those needs are more likely to be met.

 

     2. Don’t be afraid to be you

 

The phrase “just be yourself” may sound cliché and overused, but it holds true when you are looking to find a like-minded community. People tend to be drawn to those who share similar personalities, experiences and beliefs as them. This means not being hesitant to share your interests and passions, and being confident in your own skin. When people show more of themselves and have an authentic outward profile, others will naturally gravitate towards them. Put this into practice the next time you are in any public setting or group event. Chances are that you will discover you have more in common with others than you thought, and remember: the first step to finding people like yourself is to show up as yourself.

 

     3. Get familiar with your local environment

 

Many communities are created by proximity and a common location. This can be explained by a phenomenon called the mere-exposure effect. It holds that people tend to develop preferences for familiar things. Applied to communities, the mere-exposure effect suggests that the more exposed to the same group of people you are, the more familiar you will become to each other, and the more likely friendship will arise. For example, if you recently moved to a brand-new city and are looking to meet new people, a great option would be to join regular local events you are interested in. When you become familiar with people you see regularly, bonds can form. The internet is a great place to start the search for a nearby location to find others like you. 

 

     4. Do not be afraid to ask others

 

Many people were introduced to loved ones and their present community through connections. Even if you are an introvert (like I am), it is always possible to build amazing relationships with people you think are similar to you. Test the waters to try different opportunities, including online and local groups. You can even ask for recommendations from acquaintances, and be open to meet individuals through existing relationships. The further you expand your network, the more likely you will be able to find the right people to be a part of your community. Checking around and being curious to meet new people are some of the best ways to find a fit.

 

     5. Actively listen

 

Though it is important to seek out opportunities for yourself, sometimes it is easy to be caught up in your own needs. To build effective connections, you should have a genuine interest in others and their ways of life. Community is a constant cycle of giving and receiving. If energy is not put in to know others on an interpersonal level, it will be difficult for a sense of community to take shape. Oftentimes, what many need is someone to listen to and understand them. When you are able to listen well and show others your appreciation and thoughts, a deeper connection is born, which will revitalize your relationships. 

 

If you’re looking for community, you’re in luck! Low Entropy has a great one, both online and in person. Whether it’s right here in our comments section, on our Instagram or TikTok accounts, or at a Conscious Connections meet-up, we’ve got supportive, empathetic people who will welcome you with gratitude and positivity.