Building Community Through Routine

The U.S. Surgeon General has identified loneliness as a public health crisis, comparing its impact on health to smoking and obesity. It’s a reminder of how vital human connection is—not just for emotional well-being but for overall health. Yet, building connections can feel daunting, especially if you live alone.

Living alone doesn’t have to feel lonely. Honestly, when I first moved into my apartment, I thought it might. But over time, I’ve realized that creating a sense of community here isn’t as hard as I expected—it just takes a little effort and intention.

What’s Worked for Me

Leaning Into Routines
I’ve found that routines make it easier to meet people. A morning walk around the complex or using shared spaces like the gym or lounge regularly creates those “Oh hey, I’ve seen you before” moments. These small, repeated encounters can turn into conversations and, eventually, friendly relationships.

Starting Small
Saying a quick “Hi” or complimenting someone’s dog or plant might feel insignificant, but it works! Those little interactions are an easy way to break the ice. They often lead to something bigger, and at the very least, it makes the space feel warmer.

Getting to Know My Neighbors
I used to think neighbors were just… people who happened to live near me. Now, I see them as potential friends—or at least friendly faces. For example, a neighbor of mine, Danny, taught me an important lesson about the value of building connections. Danny took the time to share his experiences about homeownership and even went the extra mile to connect me with a realtor and banker. If I hadn’t stopped to get to know him, I might never have taken that crucial step toward buying my first home. It’s a reminder that you never know where a simple connection might lead.

Whether it’s introducing myself when I move in, lending a hand with groceries, or just chatting in the hallway, I’ve found that these little efforts can make a big difference.

Being Present
People move in and out of apartments all the time, so I’ve learned to make the most of the time we have. Even if it’s just a few weeks or months, those small connections can brighten the day—for me and them.

Finding Your Groove

If you’re naturally outgoing, you might knock on a door to introduce yourself or host a small get-together. If you’re more like me—on the introverted side—joining a book club, community yoga class, or even just showing up to a mixer can make it easier to connect without too much pressure.

Building a community doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your schedule or change who you are. For me, it’s been about adding small moments of connection to my routine. Over time, those small moments add up. They’ve turned my apartment from just a place to live into a real home surrounded by familiar faces.

So, try it out. Say hi to the person next door. Smile at someone in the elevator. Maybe even join that yoga class. A little effort goes a long way—and it’s worth it.