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5 Reasons Why You Need To Be Part of a Community

As humans we are hardwired to be around other humans. We are designed to have connection and the sense of belonging. In fact belonging is a huge part of human survival whether you like it or not. Even as an introvert and someone who cherishes having the space to think, just be, and shut my mind off, I've personally experienced the important value of community.

Without getting too sciency on you, multiple studies have shown how hormones such as Oxytocin and Seratonin are the driving force for the need of human connection. I chose to share this important topic with you today because a tremendous amount of people are craving human connection. The beauty of this day and age is you can create connections and find community through in person and online groups.

Before I get in to the top 5 reasons here is one recent example of a couple of students of mine who built community, developed deep connection, and friendship.



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{ we met on the internet... }⠀ ⠀ Through an online fitness group. She was a mom of 4, I was about to get married. It was 2012, and my first kettlebell idol, @laurenbrooksfitness , whom I would eventually train with weekly, in person, while I lived in SoCal, released this program that you could do on your own and had a Facebook group that you got access too. GAME. CHANGER. ⠀ ⠀ Now, I had bought several other programs before and I had NEVER finished one. But this one, not only did I finish, but I have made REAL friendships from the group. Like, have been to each other’s homes, shared meals together, and our kids know each other REAL. ⠀ ⠀ So REAL, that my now dear friend Amy @maharfamilycrafts sent me a quilt that she handmade. Isn’t it beautiful?!? She found the fabric after we spent a weekend together driving to Lauren’s first east coast kettlebell workshop in Charlotte, NC from Maryland. You could say she knows me well 😉⠀ ⠀ As a busy mom, sometimes it’s hard to get out of the house to meet new people, but when you have a group of people, who GET you, and you are all supporting each other...well, those are some REAL friendships. ⠀ ⠀ You can have this too. When you sign up for BusyMom FitTips, you get the FREE guide AND the link to join the tribe. Don’t wait, there are new friendships to start!! And I’ll be live in the tribe tonight at 8:30pm. ⠀#linkinprofile
A post shared by Melissa Szurovy (@strongmom_strongfamily) on



There are hundreds of more stories like this. Now it's time for YOU to get out there, get out of your comfort zone and become part of a community.

1. HAPPINESS 
Being part of a community increases your level of happiness and can lower depression. Not only can socializing with others that are like minded fill you up and leave you feeling more joy, but it can also be FUN! Having fun and laughing will give you many more happy moments in life. Who doesn't want to be happier?

2. INSPIRATION
There is only so much inspiration and motivation you can get from yourself. This is not to say reading books and watching online seminars can't inspire you. However, nothing replaces the inspiration that can take over your whole body with healthy discussion within a community. Creating connection with others who are doing the things you've always dreamed of, can inspire you to make a positive change.

3. SUPPORT
It can be very difficult to ask for help. Being part of a community can open up the flood gates to people who love to help others. We all carry a gift and have something to offer. Whether you're the person receiving or giving advice or support, it's paramount to share with one another the experiences good or bad to be able to have a shoulder to lean on. This is how you can create solid bonds with others. Having a solid bond will lift you up .

4. OPPORTUNITY
Not only do we get to learn from other peoples success or mistakes, but there is a lot of opportunity within communities. There are opportunities within a group to be the "go to" expert on a certain subject or service, opportunity to be offered a job, or have more chances to meet up for fun social activities. The opportunities are endless when becoming part of a community that is right for you.

5. LIVE LONGER
When you have a sense of belonging you'll feel the effects of more happiness, less stress, less anxiety and it can help prevent chronic diseases. Having community will make you feel as if you have more meaning in your life and a sense of purpose.

Now this doesn't mean join any community. This also doesn't mean you have to be involved with a community that doesn't resonate with your values and interest. The only way you'll ever know what works and what doesn't is if you do a little research and give it a chance. You may find that you resonate with multiple circles and communities. You'll be surprised with how fabulous a strong inspiring and supportive group can enhance your vitality and well being.

It can be very overwhelming. Try out several! 
Here are a few ideas
Join a gym with classes.
Find a networking group.
Join an online support and fitness community. Try out one of mine here
Volunteer for community service.
Participate in meet ups.
Try something new in a group atmosphere.

Hope this post inspired you to get moving and involved in something. Even if it's once a month. If you're interested in one of the communities I offer where people have created strong bonds and friendships, I'd love to guide you to the one that would fit your needs. We have people all over the world that have met in person and developed friendships that truly bring tears to my eyes. Contact me if you need some guidance through my website. Now what are you waiting for?


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