Image by Joseph Redfield Nino from Pixabay
Being an introvert, I rarely imagine joining any clubs or organizations. Rarer still would I actually go to any functions or meetings such groups might have. I’m not a joiner. And while I recognize that some work requires teams and I can go along when necessary, I generally prefer to be on my own. Despite those feelings, however, I realize that sometimes I really want the comraderie a like minded set of people can provide.
Research confirms that feeling. We hear it all the time: humans are social creatures. We need each other. And I don’t argue against that notion except to assert that some of us are certainly less social than others. I’m definitely less. Until times get tumultuous or depressing. Or both. Strange as it may seem, I actually like going to work when I’m stressed about something in my personal life. Doing so forces me out of my head and reminds me that there are people out there who value me and need my expertise. Going to work or achieving a goal that involves collaboration with others, as corny as it might sound, essentially makes me feel not only needed but loved.
It Doesn’t Take a Village
Those like minded people aren’t only at work. The smallest commonality can sometimes be real enough to be comforting. Since my canines are my life, the people who go to the same dog park as me are true compatriots. Add folks who own RV’s, the neighbors who grow their own vegetables, and other adult children taking care of elderly parents. When I’m with these people, I don’t have to explain why I love to camp. Or the importance of home-grown food. Or how to make my mother-in-law remember her medications. The like minded folks get it. In a very real way, they know me and I know them. Even if only in a small part of our lives.
Such communal understanding is surprisingly valuable. Knowing I can call or text or visit someone and just talk about work or family problems reduces stress and anxiety, even if that other person didn’t or couldn’t help me find a solution. Plus, you can be assured that no one in your like minded set will judge you in any way. They’ve been through the same ups and downs as you; they wouldn’t dare roll their eyes, wag a finger, or tsk tsk. You’re always safe with them.
You Like Me! You Really Like Me!
Perhaps that’s why “studies have found” that even just taking a walk outside can be rejuvenating socially and physically. When I take my dogs to their park, we often finish the outing with a walk along the perimeter path that surrounds the entire city park. Families on bikes and scooters whizz by. Frisbee golfers surround us. Basketball courts and the soccer fields buzz with activity. In short, we’re part of a group of like minded people who love the outdoors and the physical joy it brings. Sometimes we wave or stop to chat, but mostly we just coexist.
And we love every minute of it.