The fastest way to change yourself is to hang out with people who are already the way you want to be.” says Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn. 

Being a “lone wolf” may sound cool on paper, but is it practical?

Let’s take a look at the genesis of Facebook, and Mark Zuckerberg and his team of tech buddies as an example.  Could he have made Facebook by himself? – short answer is yes, of course. Would it have the same outcome without his team? Probably not. 

The thing is, your ideas are probably great to begin with already – surrounding yourself with like-minded people, however, not only polishes your already great ideas, BUT it makes the “long road ahead” much bearable and rewarding. .

What is Social Identity Theory?

“It’s no secret that we as a people are social human beings. From the dawn of humanity, to the time we live today – we’ve always been in a group, or two.”

Even before I would expound on this topic, you probably know how this article would go and end but stay with me there’s so much more about being around people and how your social identity actually shapes a lot of who you are and who you will be and interestingly this is something you have much control over. 

So to cut it short, Social Identity Theory (SIT) is a psychological framework that explains how individuals create and derive their identity from the social groups they belong to or choose to belong to. This theory, developed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner in the 1970s, sheds light on the ways in which group membership influences our self-concept, behavior, and interactions with others.

In real life, you see this as us–belonging to different groups: family, friends, school clubs, and even online communities. We categorize, identify and compare ourselves to groups but how does it actually make a difference to how we are as individuals and changemakers?

The Psychological Power of Belonging

Traced back to our prehistoric ancestors, for whom group life was essential for safety and survival. In small communities, hunting and gathering were shared responsibilities, and natural selection favored those who showed pro-social behaviors. Over time, our need to belong became hardwired into who we are as a species.

The need to belong is deeply embedded in our DNA, driving us to form groups, communities, and societies. Even according to Maslow, we often cannot pursue higher-level needs until we satisfy our basic need for belonging.

Psychologists Baumeister and Leary further identified belonging as a universal human need, deeply ingrained in our motivation. Their research showed that belonging affects our emotional and cognitive processes, and a lack of it can lead to negative impacts on health and well-being, including mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

Basically what I’m trying to say is belonging to a group means having allies, supporters, and people who understand your journey. The journey to the top can be a lonely road but it doesn’t have to be. Knowing that there are others who share your vision and have your back can be the difference between giving up and pushing forward.

Building and Sustaining Strong Communities

Building a strong community starts with shared goals and values. These commonalities act as the glue that binds individuals together, creating a sense of unity and purpose. When people rally around a shared mission, their collective efforts become more powerful.

Collaboration allows for the sharing of ideas and expertise. By working together, community members can tackle complex problems and innovate more effectively. This synergy creates a dynamic environment where everyone can learn and grow. For entrepreneurs, this means having access to a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help navigate the ups and downs of building a business.

So how do you build your own community of cheerleaders?

How to Build a Strong Community

Building a strong community within your area or industry requires intentional effort and strategic planning. Here are some key elements to focus on:

1. Identify Common Goals and Values: Start by finding what unites your community. This could be a shared interest, a common mission, or mutual values. Clearly define these to ensure everyone is aligned and motivated.
2. Foster Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication among members. Create platforms for discussion and feedback, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
3. Promote Collaboration: Create opportunities for collaboration through events, projects, or online platforms. Encourage members to share their skills and knowledge, fostering a collaborative culture.
4. Provide Support: Offer resources, mentorship, and support to community members. Whether it’s through formal programs or informal networks, ensure that everyone has access to the help they need.
5. Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of your community. This boosts morale and reinforces the value of being part of the group.
6. Adapt and Evolve: Be open to change and continuously seek ways to improve your community. Adapt to new challenges and opportunities, ensuring that your community remains relevant and vibrant.

Take a moment to reflect on the social identities that define you. Think about the groups you are passionate about, whether they are professional networks, advocacy groups, or online communities.  How do these affiliations shape your goals and actions? Understanding the profound influence of your social identities in how you approach your business. 

Funny how that line from Rise of the Planet of the Apes movie where Caesar said “Apes together strong” rings true to us. 

Humans, together, are stronger.

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