Cohousing is about more than unique architecture. The culture of a cohousing community is fundamentally different than mainstream American culture; this is what makes it joyful, sustainable and connected. People buy in to cohousing because they are naturally drawn to the value of collaboration, sharing, and living in relationship. However, being drawn to those ideals does not erase many decades of living in a competitive and individualistic culture. Making that shift takes time and intention. The more you can help each other become conscious of the shift you are trying to make and the habits you are still holding, the faster you will experience all the joy that community life has to offer.