We all want to belong. It’s an innate human desire. And for most of us it’s a need – something essential to mental health. And when we don’t feel like we belong – when we aren’t among “Our People” – it can feel pretty crappy.
When we are among Our People, we feel:
- Like we can be ourselves
- Understood
- Relaxed
- Like we don’t have to explain ourselves very often
- Accepted
- Known
- Appreciated
Who doesn’t want to feel those things? Luckily Our People can be found in lots of places. And can include just one or two other people. Here are some places where I have found My People, now and in the past:
- Family
- High school reunions
- Dance classes
- Church
- Psychology organizations
- On the streets where I live and work
Here are some places I have watched others find Their People:
- Soccer teams
- Running clubs
- Choirs
- Knitting circles
- Moms groups
- Jobs
- Community service organizations
- Art clubs
- Brownie troops
- School
- Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, etc)
- Book groups
- Home Depot
So, who are Your People? How do you know you’ve found them?