So I have been watching others on here and debating with myself about how to "show up" in my community. How much of myself can I safely express and reveal? What would people say or think? Would they take me seriously?.. etc etc.
I keep going back to that day during NYC IRL when I met Goose and his peeps and learned about having a bold theme that I can get excited about, one that sets the culture and tone for the community. The importance of inside jokes. The idea that when you, as a community host, are having fun, that energy is contagious and connective.
When I first created my community, I was playing it safe. I wanted to be taken seriously. I wanted things to feel calm, professional, and serene. And while that workedβ¦ it also wasnβt the full expression of me.
Am I thoughtful and grounded? Yes. But Iβm also a bit irreverent. A bit cheeky. A bit fiery.
So yesterday I made a bold move.
And what used to be a muted stock photos theme is now a very intentional Seinfeld-inspired vibeβcomplete with familiar images, inside jokes, and a nod to the awkwardness of dating that so many of us recognize. [Before and After pics attached below].
Will everyone love it or approve? Probably not. And thatβs ok. Thatβs not the point.
The point is that Iβm having fun. Iβm trying something new. Iβm letting my freak flag fly.
The people who love it will likely stay longer and feel more connected. Those who donβt? They may still stick around just for the βshowββwho knows. π
What I do know is this: when the host feels energized and alive, that energy spills into the entire community. Shout out to , and for inspiration! Let me know what bold moves or theme you've adopted for your community and why it's working for you.