Creative Communities: Why They Matter and How To Build Your Own
We all work differently, and that’s absolutely okay. But no matter how independent or individual you are - and let's be real, most freelancers and business owners are - building a supportive community of like-minded creatives can work wonders. Not just for your mental well-being but for your professional growth, too.
Let’s face it - working in isolation can be tough sometimes. That’s why finding people in your industry who get what you’re going through is so powerful.
Surrounding yourself with others who are navigating the same ups and downs helps you grow your network, expand your knowledge, and open doors to exciting new collaborations (and yes, more paid work!).
It’s important to remember - you’re not alone. Every work environment, whether you’re freelancing, running your own business, or working within a company, has its challenges. Trust me, I’ve been there.
There’s no such thing as a ‘perfect’ job. What keeps you grounded and motivated are the people you surround yourself with. That’s your community.
I started a new freelance job recently and the thing that has made it so much smoother is the people I’ve surrounded myself with during my time at work. I leaned on my colleagues when things were feeling a little tough and they picked me up, reassuring me that sometimes it takes time to feel natural in a new job.
As long as you surround yourself with a positive, mindful community and be honest with them, you’ll make your life so much easier.
Speaking from experience, the people you choose to have around you can make a world of difference in both your personal and professional life. So, be intentional with who you let into that space.
Surround yourself with those who uplift you, tell you the truth when you need to hear it, and push you to be the best version of yourself.
Here’s why having a community matters so much:
A sense of belonging: Finding your people gives you a sense of belonging and connection. It’s easy to feel like an outsider or struggle with imposter syndrome when you're doing things solo (again, I can relate). But having a supportive community makes you feel seen and welcome.
Friendships: Creative communities aren’t just about work. You’ll meet some amazing people and, trust me, they’ll become much more than just ‘industry contacts’ - they'll become friends.
Creative growth: Being around other creatives gives you the chance to bounce ideas off of each other. Need inspiration? Feeling stuck? Your community can help spark that next big idea or solution.
Less loneliness: Let’s be real, freelance life or running your own thing can sometimes feel a little lonely. But having a supportive circle around you makes those tough days feel more manageable, and the good days even better.
Collaboration opportunities: Who doesn’t love collaborating with friends? When you have a strong community, opportunities for working together and landing paid gigs come naturally.
Now that we’ve talked about why community matters, let’s get into how you can start building your own. Because yes, it’s not just about finding support for yourself - it’s also about creating a space that helps you thrive professionally.
A community can grow your business, attract loyal clients, and bring in more of those all-important paid opportunities.
So, how do you start building your own community?
Choose your people wisely
Be intentional about who you connect with. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, who are growth-minded, and who push you to be better. You want to be around people who are passionate, motivated, and truly love what they do - because that kind of energy is contagious! Make sure your community aligns with your values and goals. It’s not just about numbers, it’s about quality connections that make you feel uplifted and supported.
Create group chats
This one’s easy! Start small by setting up a group chat with some of your favourite creatives. You can discuss projects, ask for advice, vent about the industry - but also make it personal. Plan meetups, attend industry events together, or even take it offline for a coffee or spin class. Remember, not every conversation has to be work-related! Sometimes, the best ideas come when you’re just hanging out and being yourself.
Keep in touch
One of the easiest ways to nurture a community is by simply staying in touch. Reach out to old clients, former colleagues, or people you’ve met through networking. Ask how they’re doing, congratulate them on their wins, and see if they’d be interested in collaborating on something new. A quick message now and then can do wonders for deepening those relationships, both personally and professionally.
Use social media to your advantage
Social platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are perfect for building and maintaining a community. Engage with your followers and connections by asking questions, starting conversations, and encouraging participation. Be yourself - authenticity goes a long way. People will be drawn to you if they feel they can relate to your experiences. Share the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Show that you’re human, and you’ll attract people who want to connect with the real you. That’s how I built my community.
Lastly, if you're looking to join a supportive community, why not start here? Join our newsletter HERE and become part of something special. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities could come your way!
