Welcome to the New Year’s Community Cultivation Challenge!
As we step into 2025, this is your opportunity to take positive steps toward your dream community. Whether you’re seeking a place to belong, starting a new community, or simply exploring what’s possible, this challenge is designed to help you nurture relationships, reflect on your goals, and take action toward living more intentionally.
Each of these exercises is meant to spark creativity, deepen your cooperative skillset, and move you closer to the community-centered life you envision.
Pick one or do them all—every small step adds up!
Drop a comment to let us know how taking the challenge goes for you.
1. Initiate an intentional conversation
During your next meal with someone, spark a meaningful discussion.
- Take this opportunity to practice more intentional conversations. Try reflecting on what matters most as you both step into the new year. Prompt idea: “What’s your intention for 2025?”
2. Reach out to an old friend
Reconnect with someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.
- Example message: “I saw this [movie, book, article, memory, etc.] and thought of you. Hope you’re doing well!”
This simple act can rekindle friendships and remind you of the meaningful connections you’ve already built.
3. Explore community directories
Spend 20 minutes researching intentional communities online.
- Find communities here: 21 Intentional Community Directories to Expand Your Research.
This exercise can help you discover new opportunities and potential communities aligned with your values and goals.
4. Share your vision online
Post about your community search or the community you envision in one (or more) online groups.
- Check out the list of online groups in the Ultimate List of Facebook Groups to Help You Find Community. Practice putting yourself out there to attract like-minded individuals and welcome new opportunities. Share your excitement, hopes, or even questions to get the conversation started!
5. Declutter to create space for new beginnings
Spend one hour donating or selling items you no longer need.
- Focus on items like clothes, appliances, or other belongings that no longer serve you.
Creating physical space can symbolize making emotional and mental room for a new chapter in your life.
6. Read about intentional communities
Pick up a book related to intentional communities or sustainable living.
- Here are some recommendations to get started: The 48 Best Books About Intentional Community Living. Let these stories and insights inspire and inform your journey.
7. Envision your ideal community
Spend time imagining the community you want to live in.
- Create a vision using:
- Writing a description of your dream community
- Drawing your vision
- Making a collage with photos or magazine clippings
This exercise can clarify what you’re looking for and motivate you to take steps toward making it a reality.
8. Make a list of intentional communities to visit
Plan ahead for potential visits this year.
- Think about places you’ll already be traveling and research intentional communities nearby.
- Use directories or online groups to find options that align with your interests.
9. Draft (and send!) an email to a community
Reach out to one of the communities on your list.
- Introduce yourself, share your interests, and ask about opportunities to visit or connect.
Taking this proactive step can open doors and help you learn more about the community firsthand. Here’s a template if you’re unsure how to get started.
Thanks for participating in the challenge!
As you complete these activities, remember that each step, no matter how small, brings you closer to the community and connections you desire. Celebrate your progress and embrace the process—it’s all part of the journey.
We’d love to hear about your experiences! Share your reflections, challenges, and victories in the comments below. Together, we can inspire and support one another in making 2025 a year of growth, belonging, and intentional living.
Let’s cultivate community, one intentional step at a time!
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