by Jennifer Gulbrand | Aug 15, 2018 | Finding Your Tribe, Inspirational
Long before the overscheduled work-week and the isolating days of social media, women lived in cultures where they supported one another in all aspects of life. Together they raised and protected children, foraged for food, and helped each other through life’s daily challenges. As humans and technology evolved, women became more independent and the time previously dedicated to togetherness became less important – or so it seemed. In fact, science shows that women are physically hard-wired to connect with each other. In times of stress or need, women release oxytocin, a hormone that compels one to nurture and bond. These bonds result in positive mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing and restores women to their true nature.
Further evidence on the positive effects of meaningful relationships on physical and mental health is found in a 2018 survey conducted by Ipsos/Cigna. The survey, which included more than 20,000 Americans ages 18 years and over, found that people who engage in frequent in-person interactions are not as lonely, and report better physical and mental health than those who do not spend quality time with others. These findings reinforce the social nature of humans and the importance of having a community – or “tribe.”
But in today’s disconnected and demanding world, how does one find a tribe? Here are some suggestions on where to start
1. Look for people who share common interests and values
Seek out like-minded women who share your interests and help expand your universe. Take a class, join a wellness studio, attendee local meet-up groups, or start a club that focuses on a specific interest.
2. Identify your wants and needs
Ask yourself, “What personal need do I want to fulfill?” Be truthful in your answer, and leave self-doubt and judgment at the door. Follow your heart and the universe will attract compatible individuals.
3. Surround yourself with people that lift you up
Share your time with women that have your best interest at heart. Be part of a group that celebrates one another’s successes, but also helps each other weather the storms
4. Be yourself
It’s easy to confuse what we think we like, with what we actually like. Different people have different interests, values, or goals. Be authentic and stay true to your beliefs, and your vibe will attract your tribe.
5. Trust your instincts
Finding your tribe may take some time, and that’s ok. Your heart and mind will when know you’ve made that special connection and found your soul-sisters.
When women come together in a supportive environment to laugh, explore, and share genuine experiences, we create a tribe which strengthens our community and our world. So take a moment to step back, breathe, and connect. Your tribe is waiting for you.
Jennifer Gulbrand is a self-proclaimed Warrior Goddess and creator of SheBreathes Balance & Wellness Studio in Walpole, Mass., where all women are invited to breathe in balance, be inspired, and feel supported.
by Susan Finn | Mar 9, 2018 | Finding Your Tribe
“People in the same room understand and empathize with each other in a way that isn’t possible on the page or screen.” – Gloria Steinem, My Life on the Road
Here you are, reading a blog on the SheBreathes Balance and Wellness website. What brought you to this page? How were you introduced to the SheBreathes Balance Studio and its powerful mission?
I am going to make an assumption that you were ready and actively searching for some kind of a group setting that would support you in your personal and/or professional goals.
I know I was!
I am a solo-preneur. Most of the time, I am working out of my home office, a library, or a coffee shop. As with most of you who share this experience, I enjoy being in control, making all the decisions, and having flexibility and freedom in my schedule and in my checkbook.
But honestly, sometimes the solo work environment can get lonely, especially when challenges and obstacles arise. I am quite sure I am not alone in that often, I lose patience with myself, distractions and daydreams creep in, bringing self-doubt and defeat along with them.
When I read this part Jennifer’s mission statement
“Create a welcoming environment for women to gather, learn from, share with each other, grow individually and be inspired by the experience of women supporting other women in search of their own transformation.”
I knew that this space, and these women, would offer that sense of community, support and encouragement that would help me feelconnected to something bigger than myself.
Groups generate a motivational and inspirational energy that does NOT happen when you are on your own.
A group is a safe community where you can share your struggles, get different perspectives from your own, and feel a sense of accountability for your goals and tasks. There’s a give and take in a group setting that leaves us feeling like we helped as much as we needed help, and we knew as much as we learned.
When we leave, we actually feel better about ourselves and our capabilities, which fuels us to head back into our independent workspace and get stuff done.
Other Business Group Ideas:
You can join a networking group, a small business organization or take a class or workshop. These are great opportunities to take advantage of the power of numbers by making new contacts to stay in touch with outside of the event. Many people go to groups like this hoping to leave with long-term accountability partners, virtual team players, and professional referrals.
I invite you to explore the idea of a short-term group learning opportunity:
Authentic Action and Genuine Connection
A 3-part series designed for solo pros and small business owners who are ready to take control of their digital presence. We work in small collaborative groups to develop a sincere and successful online presence.
I am passionate about two things: helping my connections create their authentic online persona, and offering affordable programs Small groups give me the flexibility to do so.
Groups Now Forming: Learn More
Susan Finn is the Chief Connector at Susan Finn Online.
Her mission is to provide personal, authentic, and patient coaching and support strategies for the small business owner who is ready to present her value through her online presence.
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how you can shine online.
Susan would like to give a shout out to Beth Knaus of That’s A Spade for helping her get her thoughts together for this blog.
Read more on this topic:
Strength in Numbers
Power of Working in Groups
Why Women Need Women-Only Networking Groups
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