I put up a note, but will insert this here for folks that won't see it. I am managing my social anxiety and introversion by inviting people I know and then inviting THEM to bring someone I (maybe? probably?) don't. This saves me from awkwardly offering invites to folks I don't know and gets the ball rolling. (Social inertia is my friend.)
That’s awesome. I’m starting second sundays, an open house on the second Sunday of the month. Contributions (apps, drinks, desserts) divided up by the alphabet, I’ll order pizza, asked folks to bring a friend or two. Hopefully at least someone comes! 😬
I can't say enough Amens to this. I love these examples, the historical context and the reminder that we can't build movements without starting with personal trust. All of this takes time, and this essay is the best encapsulation I've read (from someone else) about why I'm writing a whole book about teaching people how to build social connections and community. It is the ONLY path forward for meaningful social change.
I know I said this on Notes, but you all we are so lucky that we're not too far out from Katherine's book on community building being out in the world!
Something good about starting with the people already in your circle is that you can have more confidence that they'll show up to something you invite them to. It isn't fun to plan something that nobody shows up to. But you can build your confidence with a core group and expand out from there.
Last November I got the urge to host weekly “Cake, coffee and conversation” hours. I didn’t know why I had the hunch I needed it. We needed it in our community. I bake a cake (a meaningful act) make great coffee and open the door. It’s led to a flowering of connections.
I put up a note, but will insert this here for folks that won't see it. I am managing my social anxiety and introversion by inviting people I know and then inviting THEM to bring someone I (maybe? probably?) don't. This saves me from awkwardly offering invites to folks I don't know and gets the ball rolling. (Social inertia is my friend.)
Feel free to steal/tweak this if it's helpful.
That’s awesome. I’m starting second sundays, an open house on the second Sunday of the month. Contributions (apps, drinks, desserts) divided up by the alphabet, I’ll order pizza, asked folks to bring a friend or two. Hopefully at least someone comes! 😬
oh this is great, Rebecca!
Yes!! That's such a smart move, Asha!
I can't say enough Amens to this. I love these examples, the historical context and the reminder that we can't build movements without starting with personal trust. All of this takes time, and this essay is the best encapsulation I've read (from someone else) about why I'm writing a whole book about teaching people how to build social connections and community. It is the ONLY path forward for meaningful social change.
I know I said this on Notes, but you all we are so lucky that we're not too far out from Katherine's book on community building being out in the world!
wow, this means so much, Garrett!
Something good about starting with the people already in your circle is that you can have more confidence that they'll show up to something you invite them to. It isn't fun to plan something that nobody shows up to. But you can build your confidence with a core group and expand out from there.
Really good point!
Last November I got the urge to host weekly “Cake, coffee and conversation” hours. I didn’t know why I had the hunch I needed it. We needed it in our community. I bake a cake (a meaningful act) make great coffee and open the door. It’s led to a flowering of connections.
Donna, this is so great!!
So good, Garrett!!!
thanks, pal!
In all seriousness, love this post- thank you!
I initially read the headline as “sh**y little potluck”, which I think also holds true! Embrace imperfection!
100% works that way too lol!!