The Journey

In this world of gig-economy, remote-work, focus on individualism and constant productivity, I often miss the sense of community and connection with human beings.

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When my corporate job turned remote, two things dawned upon me. Firstly, the human connection from seeing people in person everyday, is priceless to me. No online socializing or co-located workspace could fill that void - we were not all working together as human beings - with our flaws and wonders - to achieve a common goal. Secondly, unless I actively made an  effort to go out and meet friends/neighbors during the week - my work, my personal life is all in the space I call home - making it not a place of quiet and comfort but also the place where my work stress lurks in the shadows. Errands, meetings, work deadlines, chores - they all just live here with me!

In my search for solutions, I began researching and reading articles about others in the workforce who have been impacted by this shift, and that's when I came across the term "third place" coined by the American sociologist Ray Oldenburg in the 1980s. This concept refers to a space that encourages informal and unstructured social interactions, which are considered vital to fostering a sense of belongingness and inclusiveness. The first place represents our homes, while the second place is the traditional workplace. That’s when it occurred, my first, second and third places had merged, making me feel isolated and overwhelmed.

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Cozy Third Place is my solution to form a community where we can relax, feel safe and comfortable, engage in creative activities, have conversations with new acquaintances, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy moments of tranquility.

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This is my first adventure outside the corporate world and I feel really passionate about it. This idea embodies who I am and how connecting (not networking) with people is what makes me thrive. After all, we all want to be a part of something bigger and more meaningful. I invite you to join me in this journey and hope that it will bring you joy and create everlasting memories , as curating this space is already bringing to me. Hope to see you there!

 

- 💖 Lubaina (loo-bye-naa)