Last blog I introduced you to third places and one that I frequented in my younger days in Boston. I have had “other” third places in my life at different time.
Each served a purpose such as Sub-Contractors Association, Rotary, The Construction Club, church, and a bowling Alley League. All of them had different crowds and focused on different areas.
All served to keep me connected to the fabric of life and what was going on around me. The world has changed tremendously since my youth, but my needs and those around me have not changed. We still need interaction with other people.
Richard Kyte wrote a book on third places called, “Finding your Third Place: Building happier communities and making great friends along the way”, which is what the article was based on. It is on my to read list.
Richard says there are seven things that third places embrace. 1 It is neutral ground, people can come and go as they please, you do not have to play host, nor do you have any obligations as a guest.
2. People meet as equals. There is no boss or employee, blue collar or white collar or other hierarchical issues. What matters is personality.
3. Because third places have no hierarchical status, they tend to be more inclusive. No one is pushing an agenda, and the conversations flow about things that are on your mind that day not what one person thinks is important. Storytelling, joking, and playful banter are the norms.
4. They are accessible, that means you can drop by whenever you want, no appointments or reservations. They are easy to get to and you can count on them being open. Sort of like a coffee shop.
5. Another third place is that there are “regulars” who should up consistently. It is the friendly relationships that the crowd has that make it a third place. If people didn’t talk or interact, then its not a third space.
6.One of the last items is they tend to be rather ordinary, they usually are not expensive, not necessarily in new place and usually have a low profile.
7. Last, it’s a place where you feel at home. You don’t go there to see or be seen but to relax and feel welcome. Its just a comfortable place with good friends. I am looking forward to seeing what other insights the book can give me when I sit down to read it.
Do you have a third place you enjoy? Lets hear about it. If you have struggled with this question and others then go to Patterson2Y2R,com/blog should be a place you should visit to share your stories and challenges.
I have an ear that would love to hear your stories. Let’s taste the real meaning of life. I am still working on my course with a goal of launching a starter course by June 30th, and I will keep you abreast as to how the process goes.
If you want to participate in this process and join my first class please send me an email to bobchuckpatterson@yahoo.com
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