The ABCs of Community: Part 1 - Availability

THE ABCs OF COMMUNITY

In this month's new series, ABCs of Community, we're going to look at the A: Availability, and its importance in building strong and authentic communities. Availability is more than just being physically present; it's about being present, investing time, and fostering meaningful connections.

When we are available to others, we create a space where they can feel loved, supported, and accepted. We let them know that they are not alone and that they have someone who cares about them. This is essential for building strong and lasting relationships. There are many ways to be more available to others.

Here are a few tips:

• Make time for people. This may mean setting aside specific times in your day or week to connect with others. It could also mean being intentional about making room for people in your schedule when they need you.
• Be present when you are with people. This means putting away your phone, giving them your full attention, and really listening to what they have to say.
• Be willing to share yourself with others. This means being vulnerable and letting them know who you are and what you are going through.
• Be supportive and encouraging. Let people know that you believe in them and that you are there for them.

Building a community takes time and effort, but it is worth it. When we are available to others, we create a space where they can feel loved, supported, and accepted. This is a gift that we can all give to each other.

Here are some additional thoughts on the importance of availability in community building:

• Availability is a choice. We can choose to be available to others, or we can choose to be unavailable. It's up to us.
• Availability takes effort. It takes time, energy, and commitment to be available to others. But it's worth it.
• Availability is a gift. When we are available to others, we are giving them a gift of love, support, and acceptance. This is a gift that they will never forget.

So go out there and start being more available to others! You will be glad you did.

Here are some specific steps you can take to become more available:

• Prepare yourself. Make time in your schedule for meaningful interactions. This could mean setting aside specific times each week for coffee with a friend, joining a community group, or volunteering your time to a cause you care about.
• Shift your mindset. Understand that we were created for community. We need each other to thrive. When we shift our mindset to see community as essential, we are more likely to make time for it.
• Know your identity in Christ. Understand that you have something unique to offer others. Your gifts and talents can make a real difference in the lives of others. When you know your identity in Christ, you are more likely to be confident and available to others.
• Plan to be available. Availability doesn't happen by accident. Be intentional about reaching out to others and creating opportunities for connection. This could mean inviting someone to lunch, calling a friend who is going through a tough time, or volunteering your time to a local organization.

By following these tips, you can become more available to others and build stronger, more authentic communities.

SHOWNOTES

Today on the podcast, we are starting a series called the ABCs of community. Today we are unpacking the importance of being available and present so we can add value to the lives of people that God connects us with. God designed us to be in community. There is no substitute for human connection. Let's be intentional about being in the room with other people. Let's make sure we stay available. 

Key Highlights of the Episode:

— When you build community, you need to be present

— Spending time with people births community

— Do you have acquaintances or authentic community?

— Real relationship are possible

— What does community mean to you?

— In community we experience each other

—Friendships are developed and community is born 

— Take steps to engage with people and show them you care

— Prepare yourself and plan to be available

— There is no substitute for human connection

— Don’t miss this episode and let me know if this inspired you in any way. I always love hearing from you and connecting with you. Send me an email: [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @aprilnicolescip 

Let's further connect. Join my FB Group, the Live Love Lead Community. We are a group of women building authentic friendships centered around God's Word.