Why Building a Strong Community is Key to Personal Growth and Success

Alright, let’s get real for a second—who here has ever tried to push a boulder up a hill alone? Come on, don’t be shy, raise your hand (even if you’re reading this solo). I know I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit. And let me tell you, that boulder is heavy. It’s exhausting. And you know what? You don’t get any bonus points for doing it all by yourself. Spoiler alert: Going it alone is the HARD way.

If I’ve learned anything over the years—both in business and life—it’s that creating a life you love isn’t a solo mission. I don’t care how badass you are (and trust me, I know plenty of them), but even the strongest, smartest, most driven women can’t do it all by themselves. Why? Because it’s not sustainable, and it sure as hell isn’t smart.

So, today I’m talking about the power of community. Let’s dive in…

Building a Life You Love Isn’t Done in Isolation

Now, if you’re anything like I was in my earlier years, you probably have a long-standing love affair with independence. It’s been a badge of honor, right? “I got this,” you say. “I’ll handle it.” Well, listen up: “I got this” is just another way of saying, “I’m about to make this harder than it needs to be.”

The truth is, community shapes us. And we shape the community. It’s this delicious cycle that makes everything easier, more impactful, and, dare I say, more fun.

In fact, according to Harvard (yes, Harvard), people with strong social connections have a 50% increased chance of longevity. You hear that? Half the reason you’re going to live longer is because of your people. So, unless you plan on spending eternity alone, it’s time to start nurturing those connections. They’re just as important as any vitamin or yoga class.

Vulnerability: The Secret Sauce in Leadership

Okay, so you’ve got your tribe. Now what? Here’s the kicker: vulnerability. I know, I know—cue the eye rolls. But hear me out. If you want real, meaningful connections, you’ve got to drop the armor. You’re not perfect (shocker, I know), and that’s okay. Vulnerability doesn’t mean weakness; it means strength. It means trust.

When I was part of a leadership group years ago, one of the women hit a rough patch—like really rough—but she opened up to the group about it. And you know what? It was like flipping a switch. Suddenly, we rallied around her. We took turns calling her every morning, cheering her on, making sure she knew we had her back. She didn’t have to carry it all alone anymore.

Look, no one’s asking you to spill your guts on the internet (unless that’s your thing, no judgment here), but find your people, and don’t be afraid to show them the real you—the messy, imperfect, sometimes totally lost you. Because guess what? They’ve been there too.

Accountability: The Real MVP of Your Tribe

Here’s where the magic happens: Accountability. Without it, we all have a tendency to just… drift. Sure, you’ve got goals. You’ve got dreams. You’re ready to make it happen. But are you really? Who’s holding your feet to the fire? Who’s asking you, “Hey, did you actually send that proposal? Did you book that meeting? Did you take care of YOU?”

One of my biggest wake-up calls came when I realized that being the “go-to person” for everyone else meant that I didn’t have a go-to person. You know what that led to? Burnout. Big time.

So, here’s my advice: Get yourself a tribe that won’t let you slide, even when you’re making excuses. And trust me, we all make excuses. I’ve heard them all—and let’s be honest, I’ve used a few good ones myself. But the beauty of community is that they call you out on your BS and then help you do something about it.

Diverse Perspectives = Growth on Steroids

You ever notice that when you’re left to your own devices, you kinda start to believe your own hype? Yeah, that’s dangerous territory. If you only take your own advice, you’re bound to stay in your comfort zone—and spoiler alert: nothing grows in the comfort zone.

Here’s the thing: growth happens when you’re challenged. If you want to be better, think bigger, and do more, you’ve got to engage with people who think differently than you. I’m talking about the ones who challenge your assumptions and push you to see things from a new perspective. And yes, you’ll probably debate with them—but that’s the fun part.

So, get yourself to that metaphorical dinner party (or maybe an actual one if you’re lucky), and surround yourself with people who don’t always agree with you. Trust me, those are the people who will stretch you the most.

So, Why Do You Need Community? Here’s the Bottom Line:

• People with strong social connections live longer. Yes, it’s scientifically proven. You’ll live longer and happier if you’re part of something bigger than yourself.
• Leaders need support. No one gets to the top alone. So, why are you trying to be a one-woman show?
• Accountability keeps you on track. Your tribe will hold you to your goals—and won’t let you hide when things get tough.
• Diverse perspectives make you grow. If you want to be your best self, you’ve got to surround yourself with people who challenge you.

The Power of the Tribe

Listen, I’ll be the first to tell you that for years I thought I could do it all myself. Guess what? That’s a lie. I needed a tribe—still do. And if you’re reading this, you probably do too. The real magic happens when you let others in, share your dreams, and let them hold you accountable.

And yes, you guessed it: Anything is possible with the right amount of intention, planning, and action. And when you add a community to that mix? Well, that’s when you stop pushing that boulder alone. Suddenly, it feels a whole lot lighter.

So, ask yourself: Are you part of a tribe that’s lifting you up? Are you contributing to a community that challenges and supports you? If not, it’s time to make that shift.

Need help finding your tribe? I’ve got ideas—reach out to me, and let’s chat.

Want more on this? Listen to the Possibilities podcast episode where I dig into how community can transform your life.