Why Do I Keep Talking About Belonging?

If you’ve followed my work for any length of time—whether through The 3rd Space Studio’s workshops, coaching, or even just my posts on LinkedIn—you’ve probably noticed a recurring theme: belonging. It’s not a buzzword for me. It’s not a trend I’m chasing. It’s the throughline of everything I do, and I want to share why I keep coming back to it.

The Real Cost of Disconnection

Let’s start with the reality: too many organizations struggle with disengagement, high turnover, and a sense that people are “just getting by.” Research shows that when employees don’t feel connected to their workplace or their colleagues, performance drops, absenteeism rises, and retention suffers. In short, when people don’t feel like they belong, everyone loses—individuals, teams, and the organization as a whole.

Belonging Is More Than Inclusion

Belonging is not just about being invited to the table; it’s about feeling valued once you’re there. It’s about knowing your voice matters, your contributions are recognized, and your presence has an impact. When I talk about belonging, I’m talking about a workplace culture where people show up as their full selves and know they’re part of something meaningful.

Where Belonging Shows Up in My Work

At The 3rd Space Studio, belonging is the foundation of every service I offer—whether I’m facilitating a restorative circle, designing a project, or coaching a leadership team. Here’s why:

• Restorative Practices: These aren’t just about resolving conflict—they’re about creating space for honest dialogue and rebuilding trust. That’s belonging in action.

• Team Building: True collaboration only happens when people feel safe to take risks, share ideas, and support one another.

• Organizational Culture: The most innovative, resilient teams are those where every member feels seen and connected to the mission.

• Leadership Development: The most effective leaders know how to foster belonging within their teams. My approach to leadership development isn’t about authority or hierarchy—it’s about helping leaders create environments where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute.

  
  

Why I Won’t Stop Talking About It

Belonging isn’t a “nice to have.” It’s a strategic advantage. When people feel like they belong, engagement increases, creativity flourishes, and organizations become more adaptive and successful. But more than that, it’s just the right thing to do—for our workplaces, our communities, and ourselves.

I started The 3rd Space Studio because I saw what happens when belonging is missing—and I’ve seen the transformation that’s possible when it’s present. That’s why I’ll keep talking about it, designing for it, and building spaces where it can take root.

An Invitation

If you’re curious about how belonging could change your organization, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re struggling with disengagement or simply want to build a more vibrant, connected team, let’s start a conversation.

What resonates most with you about belonging in your own work? Where have you seen it make a difference? I’d love to hear your thoughts.