In this week's newsletter, let's dive deep into the concept of community. What is it, what it isn't, and most importantly, how we can build better tables with more seats. As women navigating this complex (complicated?) world, we often find ourselves at the intersection of fitting in and belonging.
Fitting In vs. Belonging: Unpacking the Difference
Fitting in is like finding the last piece of a jigsaw puzzle to complete an image. It's about conforming, matching the mold, and trying to be what you think others expect you to be. Fitting in often comes with a hefty price: the suppression of your authentic self.
Belonging, on the other hand, is about being embraced for who you are, quirks, flaws, and all. It's not about becoming someone else's idea of 'perfect.' Belonging is finding a place where your true self is celebrated, and your voice is heard. It's about showing up authentically, and being loved and appreciated for it.
Building Better Tables with More Seats
The image of community often evokes the idea of a table—a place where people gather, connect, and share. But how often do we stop to consider who has a seat at our table? Are we actively expanding the table to include more voices, experiences, and perspectives?
Embrace Diversity: True community flourishes when it's diverse. Diversity brings different viewpoints, experiences, and ideas to the table. So, let's make sure our tables aren't echo chambers, but vibrant spaces where we learn from one another.
Listening with Empathy: Building better tables means being willing to listen, truly listen, to others. It's not just waiting for your turn to speak, but understanding someone else's perspective. It's about empathizing with their joys and struggles.
Celebrating Uniqueness: At our tables, let's celebrate each person's uniqueness. Everyone should feel like they belong without the pressure to conform. When we embrace individuality, we foster a sense of belonging that is deeply empowering.
Support and Empower: In our community, we should be each other's biggest cheerleaders. Let's encourage and empower one another to chase our dreams and embrace our true selves. When someone stumbles, we offer a helping hand.
Open Conversations: The foundation of a strong community is open, honest communication. We can build better tables by creating spaces where everyone can express their thoughts and concerns without fear of judgment.
Inclusivity: Building better tables with more seats means recognizing and breaking down barriers that exclude. Let's actively work to ensure that all women, regardless of their background, have a place at our table.
Shared Values: Our tables should be grounded in shared values of empathy, respect, and a commitment to social justice. By rallying around common principles, we create a more cohesive and inclusive community.
What Community Isn't
Community isn't about exclusion, judgment, or trying to make someone fit a preconceived mold. It isn't about pushing others away because they are different or don't meet a certain standard. True community doesn't discriminate or perpetuate stereotypes.
Community is not just a buzzword or a shallow connection on social media. It's not about keeping up appearances or pretending to be something you're not. It's not a numbers game; it's about the quality of the connections you foster.
Closing Thoughts
As women, we have the power to redefine what community means. We can break free from the suffocating pressure to fit in and instead create spaces of belonging. Let's build better tables with more seats for all those who seek connection, support, and empowerment.
Our community is a tapestry of vibrant colours, and each of you brings a unique thread. Together, we create a masterpiece of strength, resilience, and sisterhood. Embrace your authenticity, celebrate others for who they are, and let's keep expanding our tables so that no one feels left out.
Let's invite those who have felt like outsiders, unheard, or unseen to sit at our tables. Let's create spaces where everyone is valued, respected, and loved. Let's build a community where the concept of 'belonging' transcends 'fitting in.' Let's build a community that thrives on acceptance, diversity, and shared values.
With love and a sense of belonging,
Lisa
Comments