Find Your People

Imagine a team of people who cheer you on and practically support you as mentors, friends, allies, and co-creators. That’s what we mean by “finding your people.” We know that having that kind of encouragement and help makes all the difference—especially because spiritual innovation can feel lonely and difficult at times.

If you have a great crew already, that’s fantastic! If you’d like a few more on your team, start by looking close to home: neighbors, community leaders, local artists, or organizers who share your values might become surprising collaborators. Ask friends or colleagues for introductions to anyone who they think you might resonate with. Be as open as you can to new connections! Then, widen your circle—connect with peers in the field by checking out the directory on this website, or through professional associations, conferences, virtual gatherings, or just by reaching out to someone you are inspired by. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect ask; be brave in sharing your vision and your needs, even when it feels vulnerable. The right people often show up when you risk being real.

Lisa Greenwood at Wesleyan Impact Partners is keenly aware of the power of friendship to sustain her work. For her and her team, relationships are central to their vision of the future of religious life, and she puts it into practice in her own life, too. Lisa has a small group of women she meets with for spiritual companionship each month—and they’ve been meeting now for more than two decades! That kind of deep connection and support is priceless.