The Power of Community: Why We Need Each Other to Achieve Our Dreams
Dreaming big can feel lonely sometimes. We often hear messages like “You are the only one who can make your dreams come true,” or “It’s all on you.” While there’s truth in the idea that personal drive and determination are essential, there’s something even more powerful: community.
At Crossroads, we believe that isolation—not lack of talent or motivation—is often what holds people back from achieving their goals. This idea was first introduced to me by Barbara Sher in her TED Talk, “Isolation is Your Dream Killer, Not Your Attitude.” That message stuck with me for years and has become one of the driving forces behind the creation of Crossroads.
The truth is, while self-reliance is important, we thrive when we’re connected. Humans are wired for community, and the support of others can make all the difference when it comes to achieving our dreams.
The Science Behind Community and Success
We often think of success as something we achieve alone, but science tells a different story. Social neuroscientist Matthew Lieberman explains in his book Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect that our need for connection is as fundamental as our need for food and water. This need isn’t just emotional—it’s biological. When we feel isolated, our brains interpret that isolation as a threat to survival, and it becomes harder to focus, make decisions, and take action.
Lieberman’s research shows that people are more motivated and successful when they have strong social ties. Sharing your goals with others doesn’t just make you feel supported—it literally changes how your brain functions, making you more likely to succeed.
“Our need to connect is as fundamental as our need for food and water.” – Matthew Lieberman
Community is Your Catalyst
Sebastian Junger, author of Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging, highlights another important aspect of community. In small, tight-knit groups—our ancestral way of living—everyone had a role. Everyone was needed. In today’s world, we’ve lost that sense of belonging, which can lead to a deep sense of disconnection. And that disconnection can make achieving personal dreams seem like an insurmountable task.
At Crossroads, we aim to recreate that sense of belonging and purpose. Our community isn’t just a group of individuals working on their own goals—it’s a support system where everyone is needed. Each member of the group brings their unique perspective, skills, and encouragement, making the process of dream-chasing a shared, collaborative experience.
“Humans don’t mind hardship; in fact, they thrive on it. What they mind is not feeling necessary. Modern society has perfected the art of making people not feel necessary.” – Sebastian Junger
Why We Thrive in Groups
There’s something magical about bringing people together to share their dreams. At Crossroads, we’ve seen how the simple act of sharing a dream with others makes it feel more real and achievable. Here’s why:
• Accountability: When you share your goals with a community, you’re no longer the only one responsible for your success. The group holds you accountable, helping you stay on track and pushing you forward when motivation wanes.
• Collaboration: No matter how big or small your dream is, chances are someone else has a perspective or idea that can help you achieve it. Whether it’s brainstorming solutions, offering resources, or simply providing emotional support, a community amplifies your efforts.
• Encouragement: Pursuing a dream can be a long and sometimes difficult journey. But when you’re part of a community, you don’t have to face it alone. The group will celebrate your wins, help you through setbacks, and remind you that you’re not in this alone.
How Crossroads Makes Community a Reality
At Crossroads, we’ve built a space where community isn’t just an idea—it’s a reality. Our weekly gatherings are designed to provide a supportive environment where members can:
• Share their dreams openly without fear of judgment.
• Brainstorm solutions and strategies with the group.
• Leave each meeting with a concrete action plan to take the next step toward their goals.
The magic of Crossroads lies in its community. By working together, we’re not only helping individuals achieve their dreams, but also creating a space where everyone feels valued, needed, and supported.
Dreams don’t happen in isolation. As humans, we’re wired for connection, and when we harness the power of community, amazing things happen. If you’re ready to stop chasing your dreams alone and start achieving them with the support of others, I invite you to join us at Crossroads. Together, we’ll meet, mingle, and manifest the life you’ve always dreamed of.