IDEAS

Community is an essential aspect of living a life of playful vitality. When we surround ourselves with like-minded individuals, we create an encouraging environment to take risks, try new things, and have fun. Through community, we have the opportunity to explore and develop our playful side, while receiving emotional and social support along the way.

For those who may not have experience with community involvement, it can be a bit daunting to jump in and find the right fit. However, it's important to remember that communities come in all shapes and sizes. From local groups to virtual communities, there are endless opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests and goals.

In a community, we have the motivation to explore ideas and activities that we may not have encountered otherwise. Through sharing our experiences and learning from others, we gain new perspectives and ideas for how we can incorporate play into our lives. Additionally, communities provide access to resources, advice, and information that can help individuals become more playful and creative.

Whether it's a micro-community of friends who meet regularly to play board games, a local community center that offers art classes and events, or a virtual community of gamers from around the world, finding a community that aligns with our interests and values can be a transformative experience.

Through community involvement, we not only enhance our own playful vitality, but we also contribute to the well-being of others. When we come together in a shared space, we create a sense of belonging and connection that is essential for overall health and happiness.

​By surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals, we create a supportive and encouraging environment to explore, take risks, and have fun. Through community involvement, we gain access to new ideas, resources, and perspectives that can help us become more playful and creative. So why not take the leap and find a community that resonates with you? You never know what kind of playful adventures await!

CASE STUDY 

Alex had been feeling stuck and unable to connect with his playful side for as long as he could remember. He watched as others around him seemed to thrive and laugh, while he remained stuck in a state of fear and helplessness. It didn't seem fair, and he couldn't figure out how to break through the invisible barrier holding him back. Every time he tried to play a game, or take a risk, he froze up and quickly retreated. 

One night, feeling particularly low, Alex decided to reach out to his closest friends and explain his situation. He poured his heart out to them, hoping they could offer some guidance or support. He then slipped into a deep sleep. 

The next day, Alex was surprised to find that his message had touched his friends deeply. They rallied around him, offering words of encouragement, advice, and new experiences that would lead him in exciting directions. They couldn't solve all of his problems, but they made him feel supported, and that was the greatest gift of all.

Over time, Alex learned to let go of his fear and embrace his playful vitality. He took up new hobbies, met new people, and explored the world around him with a newfound sense of wonder and curiosity. And while he still had his struggles, he knew that he was never alone. His friends were always there, ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

Alex had learned that it's okay to ask for help, and that true strength comes from the support of those around us. And he vowed to always be there for his friends in the same way they had been there for him.

PRACTICES 

• Find people who share your passions and interests and host a weekly play meetup 
• Explore social media and identify role models who represent how you want to be showing up in the world. Follow their work and notice what you find inspiring 
• Tell the friends in your life what skills you want to be developing together, and ask them if they have anyone they can introduce you to
• Find places in the city with playful people and go introduce yourself - those connections could lead somewhere promising. 
• Go into a public place with a form of play that you connect with. Start playing and doing your things, and greet the people that show an interest in you. 

BOOKS

• The Community Building Book by Paul Born 
• Creating Community Anywhere: Finding Support and Connection in a Fragmented World by Carolyn Shaffer and Kristin Anundsen
• The Abundant Community: Awakening the Power of Families and Neighborhoods by John McKnight and Peter Block
• Community: The Structure of Belonging by Peter Block 
• Building Communities from the Inside Out: A Path Toward Finding and Mobilizing a Community's Assets by John Kretzmann and John McKnight
• The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker