Find Your Tribe: The Importance and Value of Social Connection
- Polly Fotheringham
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
After working within the design and print industry for over 19 Community Partnerships years as a Graphic Designer, the global pandemic lead Polly down an independent path. Raven Design Co. was founded in 2021, a Graphic Design Company based in the heart of uphill Lincoln. In the same year, she set up a publication called ‘The Little Book of Small Businesses’, which is a seasonal magazine showcasing a wide variety of local businesses throughout Lincolnshire, with a readership reaching from Brigg down to Stamford.
The publication was founded at a time when hobbies and side-hustles became new and exciting independent businesses, and the ‘Little Book’ offers such businesses a platform to promote themselves, plus a resource to discover other like-minded entrepreneurs. Thus creating a community of talented independent businesses who collaborate, create events, workshops and classes/courses together for mutual benefit.
Jumping in to start my own business was a real learning curve. Becoming every ‘department’ a larger company would already have, but on the shoulders of one person can be a bit daunting. For others in this situation, I would recommend finding a community of like-minded individuals that you can regularly meet up with and discuss ideas. This is a great way to gain advice, boost your self confidence and alleviate overwhelm. Also, the regular connection with similar minds is great for your mental health and can lead to new opportunities and collaborations!
Finding people who share the same values as yourself, or who inspire and encourage you, will bring so many positives, leading to higher self esteem and empathy, lowering anxiety levels. It also provides you with a sense of identity, and enables you to learn new skills. Working for yourself can be an isolating experience, so feeling socially connected is more important than ever.
Photography: Headshot Toby
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