Overcome Fear and Engage With Your Community in a Meaningful Way

Have you ever avoided a difficult topic because you were afraid of offending someone?

In last week's “Trust Your Voice” podcast, I discussed this topic with my close friend Beth Feeley, currently the Senior Advisor at the community empowerment organization “The Woodson Center” and a founding member of my very own organization: The Policy Circle.

Beth, a mother of three who is passionate about her community as well as a firm believer in diversity of thinking, co-founded New Trier Neighbors to challenge the status quo. This grass-roots non-profit was established to inspire and educate local residents, in particular our youth, to have an open exchange of ideas, confront difficult issues, and take action! Here are some of the highlights from our discussion:

Building a community around the Golden Rule.

Beth believes that an important part of New Trier Neighbors’ mission is to foster a culture of critical thinking and build communities grounded in the universal Golden Rule: treat others as you would want to be treated. 

“People were not terribly engaged with what was happening in their neighborhoods and so we wanted to have a place where people could plug in,” she explains. “We want to make sure that we've got academically rigorous high-quality schools that value Intellectual Diversity. We want to see common sense local government and management of resources.”

But creating change is not a solo endeavor!

Creating a core group.

Even a small group of 4 to 5 people can affect momentum in a positive way. 

“You do need to have people,” Beth insists, clearly backed by years of community leadership experience. “I would not recommend doing it on your own. It's just too much to take on. But that kind of core group can really accomplish a lot.”

Having support and differing perspectives from others can enhance your personal growth and help you to face controversial or “thorny issues” head-on.

Pushing out of your comfort zone.

Parents often battle legitimate fears when engaging the aforementioned "thorny issues" and using their voice. Beth explains:

“I think a lot of us are worried…this is going to reflect poorly on me, or they're going to take this out on my kids. I have realized that you're doing more good when you speak openly, honestly, and respectfully with people about issues. I honestly think that's how we advance things. So I would just encourage people to push a little bit out of your comfort zone in that way.”

Doing your homework.

When you're ready to step outside of your comfort zone and speak out on issues, it's important to be well informed and prepared. That means reading relevant information from credible sources on a regular basis.

Beth’s opinion resonates, “It doesn't mean that you have to be on Twitter all day, but I do think making an effort to be informed…it's worth that investment.”

How Are You Engaging With Your Community?

Are you interested in community leadership, but lack the experience or confidence to make an impact? Are you interested in connecting with leaders like Beth or others who have the same goals? If so, you may benefit from my bi-weekly podcast.

Subscribe now and by the end of each episode, you'll be energized to spark your creative leadership, make purposeful connections, and confidently speak up about the issues that matter to you!

How do you make sure to stay up to date and informed about your community? Leave tips for the next person in the comments!