Hey there Reader,
One of the most consistent findings across psychology, sociology, and public health is this: we can’t thrive alone.
Belonging isn’t optional. Just as we need food and shelter, we need connection. One of the most powerful forms of connection is belonging to a community of identity.
It is in these spaces that we feel seen, understood, and safe. Whether that is through culture, faith, stage of life, or shared curiosity, being part of a community of identity strengthens resilience, deepens trust, and helps us weather life’s storms.
But belonging does not happen passively. We need to show up, share stories, and participate. Without it, loneliness and isolation can creep in and make everything in life feel harder.
💌 Reader reflection
Ali shared her story after reading last week’s Good Life Book Club email:
“I talked all weekend about how I need to get out and walk every day — 30 minutes before I actually start my day. As I was reading the email this morning I thought, ‘I am not walking at all right now (other than what I walk in my daily life). What makes me think I can do 30 minutes EVERY day?’ I need to be realistic. Maybe start off 15 minutes every OTHER day. When that doesn’t seem like an impossible mountain to climb I could increase that to 30 minutes every other day. And I can acknowledge 15 minutes every other day is definitely more than I have done in the last four years! I need to learn to give myself credit for the little changes and stop belittling myself for not doing “what everyone else is doing!” Because not everyone walks an hour a day.”
Ali’s reflection is a powerful reminder that when we are part of a supportive community, we see ourselves more clearly. We are reminded that progress is not about keeping up with “everyone else” but about finding the next step that is right for us.
Like to share how these newsletters or the book club are impacting your life? Hit reply and tell me all about it!
🧪 Tiny experiment
This week, reflect on your own communities:
- Where do you feel most seen and understood?
- Where do you long for deeper belonging?
If nothing comes to mind, ask yourself: what kind of community could I start seeking out today?
📝 Journal prompt
Think about a time when being part of a group gave you strength. What did that belonging make possible for you?
📚 Club corner
Belonging to a community of identity is one of the six connections we need to thrive. That is the heartbeat of the Good Life Book Club: a space where belonging comes not from labels, but from a shared curiosity about living well.
Right now we're in Week 2 of Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman, a four-week reflection on what it means to live fully within our finite lives.
👉 Click to join the Book Club here — it's free, and is one way of finding “your people” for this stage of life.
🌱 Step into more
Belonging does not just happen. It is something we build, step by step and choice by choice. If you are ready to explore what that could unlock for you, here are ways we can work together:
🌱 Flourish— 6 sessions to transform one pillar of wellbeing — Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, or Accomplishment — with practical tools and sustainable habits.
🌱 Life Beyond the Checkbox: Self Discovery — a 9-week journey to reconnect with your identity, values, and purpose.
🌱 Life Beyond the Checkbox: Life by Design — a 6-month coaching partnership to help you create a sustainable, joy-filled life aligned with what matters most.
🌱 Not sure what you need yet? → Schedule a free 30 minute consultation.