Counsellor Sarah Barr shares why it is important to surround yourself with positive and accepting people - even in the online world.

I’ve always loved the saying: “Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe.”

The only way to meet “your people” is to be yourself. If you are pretending to be someone that you’re not, you’re going to attract a tribe that has nothing in common with the real you.

Surrounding yourself with genuine people who ‘get’ you and share in your interests, will cheer you on when you succeed, and commiserate with you in your failures.

Your tribe will accept you for who you are, you do not need to wear a ‘mask’ and hide your true self. They will be your support system and will provide you with a sense of community and belonging. Being part of a support system will give you a sense of purpose and it will give you an opportunity to help and support others.

HOW TO FIND YOUR TRIBE

• 1. Be Yourself –

Do the things that you love to do, listen to your gut feeling and don’t apologise for who you are! Celebrate your uniqueness and quirkiness.

Don’t force yourself to fit in, instead find those who are fit you.

Being authentic and true to yourself will shine through.

Trying to be someone who you are not, either in ‘real life’ or in ‘social media life’ is exhausting and almost impossible to keep up all of the time.

• 2. Find Your Community Online –

With everything happening at the moment many of us are turning to groups online for support and friendships. Whatever your interest there is probably an app or a group. Listen to your intuition and choose a group or community that you enjoy and inspires you.

There are online communities out there filled with like-minded people. So take a look online for groups which share your interest and ask to join. Then when you join a group it is important to engage but take your time, don’t put pressure on yourself to talk or share if you don’t feel ready.

A simple “Hello, my name is…” is the easiest way to start a conversation.

• 3. Steer Clear From Negativity –

Remember the saying “if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing”?

With so much content online in groups and forums at the moment, be sure to choose a group that radiates positivity and acceptance. A group they is authentic and not jumping on the latest bandwagon to try and promote their objectives or sales.

Trust yourself if it feels right then it probably is, if not then maybe search for another group or community.

We all pick up on energies, 80% of communication is non-verbal, so always trust your gut.

Celebrate who you are and let your vibe attract your tribe,

Take care, Sarah.