Be Where You Want To Be : 5 reasons why you should get involved in a community activity

Community is everything. Not only is it a way to connect with others but it's also a way to be a part of something contributes to a better world. I think it's a natural feeling for humans to want to be connected, but somewhere along the way we've learned to shy away from any person out of our immediate circle of friends or family. Some believe they are completely happy with the friends they can count on their one hand, which is perfectly fine, but that doesn't necessarily mean there aren’t people out there who you have yet to create a great connection with, and one of the easiest opportunities to create these connections is through community activity.

Here are 5 reasons on how joining a community group or participating in a community activity can change your life for the better.

1. You meet people that care about the same things as you

Have you ever sat around a table with your best friends and started talking about something you love only to be misunderstood or have the conversation change complete direction? Just because they are your best friends it doesn't mean they are into the exact same things as you. There's something quite refreshing about spending time talking about something you love with someone who loves it just as much as you.

2. You learn more

People have their own cognitive library of knowledge. The more people you meet the more chance you have of them sharing that knowledge with you and giving that knowledge a chance to secure a spot in your own cognitive library. Now you have the ability to share that knowledge with others. Participating in a group activity will give you access to a range of information and give you the ability to learn an abundance of new things.

3. It looks great on your resume

A resume is not necessarily about your professional experience. Being able to show that you put the effort in to be involved in other activities can mean a lot to an employer. Of course we don't want this to be the only reason you choose to participate in a community activity but it's just an added bonus for when you do.

4. You contribute to a cause

Many community activities contribute to great causes, any many communities are often in need of volunteers as they may lack funding and resources. In fact many community programs often require people’s time over people's money. Instead of giving your cash, give your time, even if it's just once a month, and you're helping to contribute something positive to the world.

5. You expand your perspectives, which leads to increased empathy

Spending time with the same people all the time can limit your perspectives. Becoming involved in a community group or activity gives you a chance to meet others and potentially introduce new perspectives into your life. Expanding our perspectives is one of the fundamental pillars of empathy, and increased empathy allows us to have a better understanding of the world.

There are many community groups and activities that are specific to certain causes or interests. Check out the following sites and see how your life can change for the better -