Let's go back to the Village.

Redefining Independence Through Community

The concept of "it takes a village" fundamentally reshapes the modern understanding of independence. Rather than equating independence with self-sufficiency or isolation, this philosophy recognizes that true independence flourishes within a supportive community. By sharing responsibilities, resources, and wisdom, everyone can achieve personal growth and autonomy without the unrealistic expectation of doing everything alone[1][6]. If you're wondering why you're struggling as a parent, business owner, or a human being, it's because you're trying to be everything. You're trying to be your own plumber, cook, cleaner, accountant, doctor, and so on. YOU CAN'T. You're not meant to! You're MEANT to rely on others, and they on you! You're meant to share your unique gifts with the world instead of wasting your precious energy where it doesn't serve you.

Support Systems Foster Resilience

Modern life often fragments families and communities, leading to increased isolation and pressure on individuals to manage all aspects of life independently[2]. The old-fashioned 'village' lifestyle addresses this by providing both formal and informal support networks- friends, extended family, neighbours, and community organizations- that help with childcare, emotional support, and practical needs. This collective care reduces stress, prevents burnout, and allows individuals to focus on their strengths and passions[1][2][6].

Empowering Individual Choice

By leaning into community, people gain the freedom to make choices that align with their values and needs, rather than being driven by external pressures or the myth of "doing it all." The village offers a safety net, enabling risk-taking, rest, and self-discovery, which are essential for genuine independence and well-being[6].

Mutual Benefit and Shared Success

The village approach also highlights that success is rarely achieved in isolation. Opportunities, encouragement, and even challenges provided by the community contribute to individual achievements. This mindset fosters gratitude, humility, and a willingness to both give and receive help, creating a cycle of mutual empowerment[3][6].

A Return to Connection

Ultimately, embracing "it takes a village" in modern life is not a step back from independence but a move toward a more sustainable, connected, and resilient form of it. It acknowledges that while independence is valuable, interdependence is what allows individuals and communities to truly thrive[1][6].

"No one person can meet all of another person's needs. We need a village not just to raise a child but also to raise ourselves, be ourselves..."[6]

In this way, the village is not a barrier to independence but its foundation in the modern world.

If you want to join my village, book a clarity call with me, and let's get started.

Love & light,

Marta J

Sources

[1] It Takes A Village To Raise A Child - It's Relevance In Modern Times https://mamiina.co.uk/it-takes-a-village-to-raise-a-child-its-relevance-in-modern-times/

[2] It Takes a Village to Raise a Child: Understanding and Expanding ... https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8964422/

[3] Reflection #1. It Takes A Village - Helen Fosam - LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/reflection-1-takes-village-helen-fosam-phd

[4] Use Your Village - The Natural Parent Magazine https://thenaturalparentmagazine.com/use-your-village/

[5] It Takes A Village - Tamarack Institute https://www.tamarackcommunity.ca/latest/it-takes-a-village

[6] We ALL need a village; here's how to build one - A Real Green Life https://arealgreenlife.com/it-takes-a-village/

[7] It Takes a Village: Breaking Free from Self-Imposed Boundaries https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/takes-village-breaking-free-from-self-imposed-aidan-mccullen-ebsuf