GNT #095: Where is Your Third Place?

read time: 3.5 minutes
 

A case for finding your third place.

In the 1980s, sociologist Ray Oldenburg argued that every person needs a “third place”—not work, not home, but somewhere else that fosters community. Think of the corner café where the barista knows your name or the weekend park where you always see a few familiar faces.

For me, I have a few third places that keep me anchored. My Crossfit gym, where I feel the shared energy, encouragement, and connection as we sweat out the stress together. And then there’s our library. It’s familiar and comfortable. My sons and I walk in, greet the librarians we know by name, and wander to our favorite sections. Sometimes we explore new shelves, then settle into our reading spots to dive in together.

In today’s world of remote work and virtual everything, we’re losing these spaces - and feeling the effects in our connection and well-being.

So, where’s your third place? And if you don’t have one yet, how can you find it?

In today's newsletter, we break down what makes a third place special, the different kinds that can work for you, and how finding one can bring more balance and joy into your daily life.

Let's dig in.
 

What Makes a Third Place Special?

A third place isn't just “somewhere else to go.” It acts as a grounding spot in your life that brings a sense of comfort, connection, and even purpose outside of home and work.

Studies show that third places have a real impact on happiness and mental health. In fact, research from Harvard found that people who feel connected to their communities experience a 47% higher likelihood of life satisfaction and a 21% lower risk of depression compared to those who feel disconnected.

Here’s what makes third places uniquely powerful:

1. They’re Inclusive
   They welcome anyone, regardless of background or status. You feel safe to be yourself and don't have to fit any particular role.

2. They foster connection without pressure
   There’s no need to network or achieve. Just showing up is enough. The connections happen naturally over time, and the relationships formed are genuine because there’s no agenda.

3. They offer routine and surprise
   A good third place is familiar, yet it also brings small doses of novelty. You may recognize familiar faces, but each visit holds the potential for a new conversation or discovery.

In short: A good third place balances comfort and variety, connection and independence - making it an important way to recharge, reduce stress, and reconnect with others and yourself.

Types of Third Places to Try

If you don’t have a third place yet, or you’re curious about finding a new one, here are a few ideas to consider. 

• Volunteer Organizations
  A purposeful way to build community around a shared mission. Spaces like animal shelters, food banks, or community gardens offer a sense of belonging through meaningful service.
  
  
• Co-Working Spaces
  A cool social workspace option for remote workers, combining productivity with casual networking and community-building events.
  
  
• Gyms or Fitness Spaces
  Perfect for those who want to get their movement in and motivation from others.
  
  
• Religious or Spiritual Groups
  Community through shared values, regular gatherings, and opportunities for deeper connection. 
  
  
• Local Coffee Shop or Cafe
  I love planning networking or friend meet-ups at my hometown coffee shop, Froth & Cork. I always know who's working and the community bulletin board keeps me up to date on happenings in town.
  
  
• Community Centers
  If you are lucky enough to have one near you, they're a great hub for classes, activities, and events. 
  
  
• Parks, Trails, or Nature Preserves
  Natural spaces or even walking paths can act as third places too. Frequent visits mean familiar faces and I think being in the outdoors always has a way of resetting.
  
  
• The Library
  Don’t forget this gem. I might be biased, but I believe these are vastly underutilized spaces. Most libraries also offer events and fun programming.
  
  

Takeaway

In our fast-paced world, it’s so easy to lose touch with places that make us feel grounded and connected. A third place gives you a way to recharge, find balance, and feel that sense of community.

If you don’t have a third place yet, try picking one from the list above and make a plan to visit this week.

You might be surprised at how much it can do to lift your spirits.

Thanks for being here. See you next week.

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