When you embrace the power of workshopping, though, you can focus on reframing the things that didn’t work and then doing more of the things that work and building on them. I believe fundamentally that not only is this true for hosting a community, but also for any kind of new project or new kind of creativity—this is an opportunity to workshop

it keeps both you and me consuming new content and wondering if we’ve got everything we need to act on our purpose. We think we’re taking action, when, in reality, we’re running in place. The toxic brilliance of late-stage social media is that it’s convinced us action means consumption and creativity means producing content for their platforms.

Think about the physical places you’ve been where you’ve encountered strangers who could be your Ideal Members. Who were you with? What were you doing together? What did you observe?

Then, you’ll want to explore the opposite dynamic. Who depletes your energy? Who is quick to cut you down? Who makes you question your worth?

What transition is your Ideal Member navigating right now? Are they experiencing a loss or figuring out how to add something new to their lives? Are they starting something or ending something? What’s on their vision board for the life they’re living five years from now? What’s holding them back? Is it practical? Is it mental? A bit of both? What

I’d argue that, especially today, community—real community—is not just a nice-to-have. It’s essential. It’s the best way to navigate change and uncertainty. It’s the best way to become resilient, build new practices, and create the life we want. It’s the only way to experience the beauty and confidence that comes from belonging. It’s where we can

People who hosted successful networks approached their communities with an openness and their own curiosity. They embraced experimentation and a “growth mindset.” They also took specific steps to make their communities happen in pursuit of a shared purpose.

If you want anything to have a tangible, real impact in your life, you need to make it a practice. Daily. The same is true for your purpose. You can’t just write it down on a Post-it note and hope it manifests itself into existence.

These are your Ideal Members . . . the people who need you—as a host and the community you’re creating—the most right now.