Community Building 101: How to Find the Missing Pieces

Sarah Brumley

Sarah Brumley

Have you ever felt like something’s missing in your relationships? Maybe you have great support in one area but feel disconnected in another. Today, we’re diving into your circles of community to find the gaps and see where you need more connection. My hope is by the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly where to focus your energy this week. Sound like something you need? Well then, let’s get started!

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How to Find the Missing Pieces of Community

Welcome back to the Financial Fix Up Podcast! I’m your host, Sarah Brumley, and this week, we’re working through the 5-Day Community Connection Challenge—a simple, practical way to build the meaningful relationships we all need to thrive.

Yesterday, we kicked things off by mapping out your circles of community—your inner, middle, and outer layers. If you missed that episode, I recommend going back to listen because it sets the foundation for today.

Community is the glue that holds us together. It’s what lifts us up during tough times, celebrates with us in joyful moments, and reminds us that we’re not alone. But sometimes, our circles aren’t as balanced as we’d like. Maybe you feel lonely as a parent, disconnected at work, or like no one really understands what you’re going through.

Today, we’re tackling that head-on by reflecting on where you feel gaps in your community and figuring out how to take one step toward filling them. By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly where to focus your energy and have a plan to start creating connections that matter.

Step #1: Reflect on Your Current Circles

First, let’s revisit your Circles of Community Worksheet from yesterday. Look at those inner, middle, and outer circles and take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself where you feel most isolated or unsupported. Think about what kind of community you wish you had.

You might consider a recent moment where you felt lonely or overwhelmed. Maybe you needed someone to vent to, but you didn’t know who to call. Or perhaps you’ve been wishing for a group of local friends who understand your life stage—whether that’s parenting, a new job, or something else.

I had a listener share with me awhile back that while she felt deeply supported by her immediate family, she struggled to find local friends for casual get-togethers. Once she realized that gap, she joined a free parent group at the library and started connecting with other moms.

So, what about you? Where do you feel like something’s missing?

Step #2: Choose One Circle to Strengthen

Once you’ve identified the gap, choose one circle to focus on strengthening this week. Yes, just one – because we all know that focusing on everything at once can be overwhelming, and this challenge is about small, intentional steps.

For example:

  • If you’re craving deeper conversations, you might consider strengthening your inner circle by reconnecting with a close friend.
  • If you feel disconnected locally, it might be time to focus on your middle circle by attending a community event, reaching out to a neighbor, or inviting another family over.
  • If your outer circle feels cluttered or overwhelming, this could be the week to set boundaries with one or two relationships that consistently drain your energy.

Remember the goal isn’t perfection —it’s progress. And even one small step can make a big difference now and into the future. So, choose one thing you can realistically do this week to strengthen that circle.

Step #3: Involve Your Family

This is also a great chance to involve your family. Sit down together and ask what type of connection you’d all enjoy. Are there families you’d like to get to know better? Is there an activity or group you’d like to try together?

For younger kids, it might be a playdate or a trip to the library. Older kids might suggest a game night with friends or volunteering as a group. Your spouse could suggest reconnecting with an old friend. You could plan a family movie night with neighbors, join a local event, or even organize a casual outing to the park.

The beauty of this step is that it strengthens not only your community but also your family bond.

What Are Your Missing Pieces of Community?

Alrighty that wraps up Day 2 of this Community Building Challenge – short and too the point, right?!

Here’s your challenge for today:

  1. Look at your Circles of Community Worksheet and identify any gaps.
  2. Choose one circle to strengthen this week.
  3. Write down one small action step to move forward, whether it’s sending a text, joining a group, or planning a get-together.

By taking a few moments to reflect and plan, you’re setting yourself up for stronger, more meaningful relationships. And my hope is that by the end of this exercise, you’ll know exactly where to direct your energy and have a clear plan to start creating the connections that matter most to you.

Tomorrow we’re talking about making those connections, even when life feels busy or a little uncomfortable. So, make sure to subscribe if you haven’t already because you definitely won’t want to miss it!

Whatever you decide, just know that I’m cheering you on! You’ve got this! Have an amazing day and I’ll chat with you again next time!

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