I’ve been thinking a lot about the word community lately. It pops up in my work conversations all the time…“our team,” “my group,” “my gym,” “my co-workers.” These are micro-communities within the greater whole. Community is a place, a concept, and a value that so many of us hold tightly. Myself included.

I love where I live because of the people here. And as my path intertwines with others, I’m constantly reminded of how incredible this community is. The fun thing is—wherever you are, you have that too. The question is: Are you putting in the effort to connect with the best parts of your community?

Interestingly enough, when you do, you get healthier. Social connection isn’t just about feeling good, it directly impacts our long-term well-being. Our former Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, highlighted this in his advisory, Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation. Here are a few incredible insights:

• Social connection increases survival odds by 50%.
• Being connected reduces the risk of heart disease by 29% and stroke by 32%.
• The more social support you have, the lower your risk of developing high blood pressure.
• Chronic loneliness and social isolation can increase the risk of dementia by 50% in older adults.

If relationships can literally help us live longer, then investing in our community and our local friendships isn’t just nice…it’s necessary.

That brings me to this thought-provoking TED Talk between Simon Sinek and Trevor Noah on Friendship, Loneliness, Vulnerability and more:

They have a lot to say! When Simon said, “Friendship is a leadership problem,” I had to hit pause. And it’s been a marble rolling around in my mind ever since. What about how we work and lead could be causing a loneliness epidemic? I don’t want to give away the goodness…If you watch it, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

• What role do friendships play in your sense of community? How do they shape your well-being?

Here’s the thing: Community isn’t just something we find, it’s something we build. It’s a choice. It’s in the small moments of showing up, using our voice, spreading kindness, lending a hand, and taking action together. You are a part of it & what you do matters.

If you’re local, and want to continue to build our community…join me May 3rd @ 9am. I’m leading a team for Eagle River Coalition (ERC) Community Pride Highway Cleanup. It’s a simple act, but like all things, it’s more fun (and meaningful) when done together.

If you’re intersted, email or text me by March 20th (That way I know how many miles of highway to reserve!) You can also sign up here.

_{Sources:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023). Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community. https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf}