Maybe this is an American cultural deficiency where we really don’t know our neighbours. Obviously, we should. Hope you don’t live in a culture where this information may be of use to you.
Befriending one’s neighbours is something that happens less and less these days. Whether it’s due to people’s hectic schedules or because today’s world favours social media interactions is anyone’s guess. There are very good reasons, however, why you should get to know your neighbours.
- Neighbours can become conveniently located friends.
Though there are many reasons why neighbours make great friends, one of the biggest reasons is proximity. It is pleasant to visit a friend who lives across the street or down the road.
- Neighbours can provide added security by watching over each other’s homes and property.
You can’t always be around to watch over your home and property. A trusted neighbour can keep a watchful eye on the area and alert you if something seems amiss. Even if your neighbourhood friendships have yet to develop, consider swapping phone numbers with various neighbours.
- Neighbours can help fill the void when supplies are running low.
I admit this is pretty selfish, but have you ever run out of sugar or needed an egg? What about a battery? You could find yourself out of luck if the stores are closed and you don’t know your neighbours.
- Neighbours can help run errands.
If a neighbour is already going to the store and they know you need sugar, eggs, and batteries, then they might offer to pick them up for you.
- Neighbours can help solve each other’s general problems.
There are many times in life when people require outside help. Accidentally drained your car’s battery? Instead of waiting for a tow truck, a helpful neighbour might be able to give you a boost. Having trouble moving a piece of heavy furniture? One of your neighbours may be willing to share the burden.
- Neighbours can provide a safer place to keep a spare house key.
It’s always wise to have a spare house key. It’s less wise, however, to hide it under your doormat. For a safer place to leave your spare key, why not entrust it to a neighbourhood friend who’s usually home? Such an arrangement can also be beneficial if you are away from home and realize that you accidentally left your kitchen window open.
- Neighbours can help with household tasks during vacations or other prolonged absences.
Neighbours can be extremely helpful during absences. Have a neighbour stop by occasionally and bring in your mail and watering your plants.
- Neighbours can help in emergency childcare situations.
Need someone to look after your children when your regular babysitter bails at the last minute? Trusted neighbours can often provide emergency childcare.
- Neighbours with a good rapport are more likely to be respectful to one another.
Neighbours sharing in a harmonious relationship are less likely to be loud or otherwise disrespectful to one another. Friendly neighbours are also more likely to give you a break if one of your parties gets a little out of hand.
- Neighbours can provide new business networking opportunities.
Befriending your neighbours allows you to join new social circles, connecting you with a variety of new people. Socializing with your neighbours could be the catalyst that connects you to your next business networking opportunity.
There are so many reasons why you should get to know your neighbours. Do remember, however, that these benefits work both ways. Be a good neighbour and don’t be afraid to offer a little neighbourly help in return whenever the opportunity presents itself.
by Mike Djordjevich
Adresse :
321 High School Road #303
Bainbridge Island
WA 98110
USA
Telephone : +1 661 645 5572
Email : mike@mdj-cpa.com
Website : http://www.mdj-cpa.com