I know I took for granted the importance of the community that I had when I was working. I didn’t take the individuals for granted, I failed to appreciate the importance of my co-workers as a group, a community. We were people in the same industry, affected by the same whims of policy, and working towards a common goal, in a shared space. There was tremendous support in that fact.
When I retired, I made sure to stay in touch with my friends but it’s impossible to stay in touch with the work community, unless you still work there. I miss them individually, but I realized that I wasn’t part of that community anymore, as a retired person.
Community Reduces Stress, Isolation
Soon, I will be going into business for myself. It’s a daunting challenge with lots to learn and organize, and it’s caused me more than a few sleepless nights. I realized that being alone at work was one of the things generating significant stress for me. Knowing the value of a community, I’m looking at ways to create one in my new area of work as an entrepreneur. You may think that’s impossible as a person who is the boss, and only employee, of a home-based business. Who’s going to be part of my work community other than the cat?
Looking For Communities That Exist
I’m looking around for places where folks with the same career aspirations as myself have been gathering. I’ve been studying in college to learn my new path. My classmates are a natural choice. They may not realize the importance of group support as we all try to do something new, but I do, from my teaching days. Cooperating and sharing ideas with others on the same path, removes some of the struggle and reminds you that you’re not alone. Reaching out to classmates to build a community once the course is finished is a priority for me.
Some Benefits Of Building A Work Community:
1. Less isolation. Gather with others who understand what you’re going through.
2. “Developing great relationships and building trust with members leads to referrals and introductions. Opportunities flow across members really powerfully in a community.”*
3. “Not only can you learn from other members and emulate their success, but you will find they actively help and encourage you with your mission…”*
More ideas on how to develop your work community:
Click the link and check out the practical ideas in this article. https://www.shopify.com/blog/building-community
Retired, And Now What 