The Power of Community

Today was the first time in a long time I woke up without much persuasion. The usual early morning internal chatter was quiet this time. I woke up with ease, got myself dressed and was out the door within minutes of waking — a normally effortless ritual that has gotten harder over the past few months.

It’s been a while — four months to be exact, since I stepped into the studio. I used to go so often the steps to get there was like clockwork. Returning today felt like I was coming home. I used to roll my eyes and even get annoyed when people spoke this way about their fitness routine. But I get it now.

It’s more than just a routine. While recovering from my injury, I tried my hardest to emulate my old gym routine. Waking up early was tough, sticking to an exercise program was even worse. And I had to do this all on my own. No one going through the same struggles, no one to share the same ups and downs. None. The road to recovery felt lonely.

Today, just seeing the familiar smiles and faces at the studio, being greeted by their warm hellos and the concern was something I will never take for granted again when people talk about the importance of community. So many companies now have a dedicated role of Community Manager. I fall under that category myself, and yet I sometimes doubt the significance of my job. But today, I value it. I understand it. I need it.

We all need hope. We all need that little bit of encouragement, that extra bit of love from people who see our potential. And when these strangers who only know me in this arena of fitness can and are able to share my milestones, that’s camaraderie. That’s the power of community at 6.55am in a tiny studio on the corner of the street.