We create our environment, and our environment, in turn, creates us.

A key component of your environment is your community–the people you surround yourself with.

If you want to uplevel your game and increase your impact, surround yourself with people who inspire you.

Who you are is about who you’re with.

According to Stanford Professor Brian Lowrey, we don't just exist in communities, we are created and shaped by them.

In 18th century France, salons were places of gathering to discuss literature and share ideas on topics from science to politics to poetry. They became an important source of political ideas and revolutionary sentiment.

What kind of community do you surround yourself with?

1. Find people who inspire you. Learn from the best and spend time with people who bring out the best in you.

Northwestern University Professor Allan Collins identified four features of apprenticeship that could be adapted to the demands of knowledge work and coined the phrase “cognitive apprenticeship”:

• Modeling - demonstrating the task while explaining it aloud

• Scaffolding - structuring an opportunity for the learner to try the task herself

• Fading - gradually withdrawing guidance as the learner becomes more proficient

• Coaching - helping the learner through difficulties along the way

2. Although for decades, neuroscientific study of how people think has been the study of people thinking alone, scientists in psychology and cognitive science are compiling evidence that points to a striking conclusion: we think best when we think socially. 

Put yourself in places and spaces where others with diverse perspectives can help you avoid falling prey to cognitive biases and fallacies. Having others around you who think differently elevates your thinking.

3. Seek out people who can truly see you for who you are.

We are not very good at seeing ourselves. Others are much better at this. Find trusted colleagues, friends, and coaches who can help you construct who you are. 

Creating and cultivating community takes intentional and deliberate action.

Create the community that will support you in the mission you’re on.

Love,

Audrey