What is liminal?
Liminal: existing at the threshold (or border) between one thing and another
Liminal space refers to the place a person is in during a transitional period. It's a gap, and can be physical (like a doorway), emotional (like a divorce) or metaphorical (like a decision).
In the liminal space, all paths are ahead of you. From David Spinks:
It's the space between the disintegration and reintegration phases of transition. You’ve let go of the past, and you haven’t yet taken that first step into the future. You’re just still.
The space between.
How does this relate to community?
Communities often mean the most to us when we are in these periods of transition. Friends, acquaintances, people with common interests mean more to us when we are in periods of upheaval elsewhere in our lives.
My plan for this newsletter is to share my thinking and my insights on creating community in-person and online, in traditional communities and in new "web3" communities. I'll blend my interest in product management, marketing, and future of work.
What caught my attention this week
On being a bossy facilitator by David Spinks - the "bossy facilitator" immediately reminded me of Priya' Parker's "gracious host" and the article did not disappoint.
Community Building Tip
Send a personalized message to as many members of your community as you can.
For new members, learn about their goals and their interests. Introduce them to 3 other community members. Help them find their place in your community.
For existing members, remind them about upcoming events. Check in and ask them about their goals. Keep them actively engaged and celebrate participation.
See you soon!