In this blog post, I want to gift you ideas on how to build community in ways that also engaged your hobbies. Finding community and friends in a new city or as an adult is challenging. When we no longer have the consistency of school and in a society that puts a lot of emphasis on romantic relationships, finding friends and community can feel really isolating. But, no matter how hard something is, community is such an important part of our wellbeing. We as humans are not meant to be alone. We thrive with people and I want to offer fun ways to build or grow your community in this blog. Before we dive in, I want to offer the reminder that there is no wrong way to build a community, these are just some fun ways to get you started.
- Bookclubs
Coming from this therapist, no one is surprised that my first suggestion involves books. But, this is a perfect way to meet people. Having a common topic we know will be discussed is an easy way to start conversations with new people and gives you tons of ideas on what to talk about if you have anxiety and want to plan what you’d like to say. There are tons of bookclubs through local bookstores or libraries that are catered to different genres. There is also something called silent bookclubs where you go to read and then at the end you get to talk to people about what you are reading.
- Sports Clubs
Sports! Movement is such a vital part of our mental health and sports have been bringing people together for a very long time. This can also look different in so many ways. There is fantasy football league, pickleball league, adult swim teams, ect. Like discussed in our previous recommendation, having something to gather people helps give us topics to talk about and easily break tension. Working with others builds trust and allows us to find friendship easily. You can look up your local rec centers or you can find local groups on facebook.
- Meet Ups
Meet Ups is an app you can join where you can curate the kinds of groups you would like to be apart of. There are so many and can be specialized for you! I remember when I first signed up I signed up for “new to Nashville” and a group who went on walks in my age group. There are so many options on this app and a great way to explore the city while also meeting new people.
- Neighbors
Now, this is a great one to utilize because you have location on your side. utilize your neighborhood. A lot of them have facebook groups or group threads that allow for interaction and information to be shared. This is a great way to grow your community because you share space with your neighbors. This can come with some challenges but the benefits of getting to know your neighbors helps you feel included in the community you are already a part of. I know this will look different for people in homes and apartments, but the outcome is similar, they are there already, its a great way to connect with those around us.
- Cooking Classes
Our final way to find community in fun places is through cooking classes. There are so many different ones catered to different experiences but food is a universal way to be together and gather, why not learn while you gather. This is defiantly our most expensive option but is still a great way to branch out and try something new with a common goal in mind. In cooking classes you can be asked to pair up giving a great opportunity to meet new people.