Third places are a need and cure for loneliness and self-isolation.
I remember the first time I heard someone mention the concept of having a third place; I was very confused. The idea of a third place didn’t make sense at first, but I grew to love it once I knew what it was.
So, what is third place? It’s a place that isn’t home or university/work — it’s a place where we go to have fun.
After some reflection, I realized that a third place is a big part of my weekly routine.
My church is a safe and happy place that brings me joy and is a beautiful addition to my life. It makes me feel alive; it’s somewhere where I find love, community, and a support system that is irreplaceable.
In 1982, an urban sociologist named Ray Oldenburg published an article about the importance of having third places. So, although this concept isn’t new, it’s still decreasing today.
COVID-19 has played a major role in the loss of third places, as the pandemic forced us to go online. That was our only way to socialize, and social media became our third place. Since the lockdown is over, we need to have more physical third places.
Humans are meant to live in a community and to socialize with people who share similar values as us. I trust my friends’ opinions and their input, and this trust is built into the walls of the third place; I find myself struggling without my friends.
According to Psychology Today, 73 per cent of generation Z feels lonely, either sometimes or constantly. Our generation is living with the belief that we should be independent, that we will be satisfied on our own, and that it makes us stronger not to let people in. This mentality could be one of the reasons behind our struggle with loneliness.
A third place is a solution for loneliness and a great way to break the routine and add excitement to the week; you are there because you want to be. Third places are a great way to form friendships, make new connections, and can help you discover a new skill or hobby.
Third places are anywhere you feel comfortable. Your friend’s basement, a coffee shop where the barista knows your name or even bowling leagues are great options! Concordia has a lot of clubs that you can join too. It may be intimidating to take the first step to try and join a club, but finding something that motivates you and that you would want to commit to without it being a source of pressure makes it all worth it.
It may feel overwhelming at first, not knowing where to go to find this sense of community. It took me a while to find my place and my people, but the search was worth it. Once you find your third place, you will feel like you are home.
Writing this while thinking about my own third place makes me feel proud of my community and glad that I overcame my fear of being rejected. Knowing that I can find support and community at my church is always a good source of motivation during a tough week.
No matter what you choose as your third place, it will bring you joy and add color to your life.
