It’s the most wonderful time of the year, or is it? For many people, mixed feelings arise during the holidays, especially if they don’t have a true and deep sense of belonging within a social group, whether that’s family, friends, or any other social connection. It’s not easy to meet people who are reasonably thoughtful and emotionally sensitive.
A sense of belonging is something everyone desires. In fact, the need to belong is just as significant as the need for housing and food. Feeling that you are connected helps a person cope with the valleys in life and celebrate on the mountaintops. In addition, it helps a person observe that all people experience both struggles and good times in life, and just being able to relate to others in this way can ease the pain that comes with life’s difficulties. As I grow older, belonging to some community seems increasingly important to me. I think we all want to feel connected and find meaning and purpose as a valued part of your community.
If you are looking for ways to create a sense of belonging in your life or have struggled with this in the past, there are many ways you can tap into a long-lasting and meaningful connection at this time of year and beyond.
Social Groups
When you share a common interest with others, you tend to automatically find a connection with one another. Check out special interest and hobby groups in your area such as clubs and classes that enjoy activities like Scrabble, chess, knitting, sewing, cooking, dinner, bicycling, hiking, or skiing. You may discover true friendship over shared laughs and a cup of coffee or tea.
Houses of Worship
A shared belief system and spiritual commonality tends to make for a sense of belonging for all people involved. Seek out local churches, temples, or other organizations. Many houses of worship offer extra activities and support throughout the holidays.
Volunteer Opportunities
Reaching out and helping others can be one of the most meaningful ways to find belonging in your community. Get in touch with local organizations that help underprivileged families, children, older adults, and people struggling with health problems. Not only will your heart be warmed when you help others, but you’ll probably also make some new friends among the other volunteers.
Neighborhood Friends
Sometimes you barely need to walk out your front door to find a ready-made community. There are undoubtedly at least a few potential friends and like-minded people in your own neighborhood. Keep your eyes open for how you can create that sense of belonging by taking walks around the neighborhood or just spending more time outside around your house. Smile, say hello, and strike up a conversation. You never know where your hospitality might lead.
Putting yourself out there and striving to connect with others can involve some risk, especially if you’ve struggled before with having a connection among a community of like-minded people. But anything worth doing in life involves some risk. You may find fulfillment in the experience – and you may just start the new year with a new group of friends to treasure for a long time.
