We invest so much time and money into our homes, so why shouldn’t we invest in getting to know our neighbors too? Having a connection with the people in your surrounding neighborhood can be invaluable. It’s nice to have someone to rely on when you need your mail to be picked up, your plants to be watered, or if you need an extra egg for that cake you’re baking. Building relationships with them will benefit you in so many ways.
Break the ice
We know it can be intimidating to break the ice, so start by simply saying hello when you are walking your dog around the neighborhood or when you are grabbing your mail from the mailbox. People love to receive compliments and always want to extend their advice, so ask them about how they built their garden beds or where they got that beautiful wreath hanging on their door.
Host an event
If you’re feeling ambitious, you could try organizing a neighborhood yard sale to help raise money for a local charity or nonprofit. Supporting a good cause may help peak your neighbors’ interest in selling some of their possessions. Another option is to consider throwing a block party to get to know your neighbors. This will give you the perfect excuse to walk up to your neighbors’ front doors to hand out invitations. You can also ask people to donate food, drinks or supplies to the party, which will help you create some good conversation.
Connect with your community
No matter how you go about it, becoming more connected to your neighborhood will give you a sense of belonging and security. Whether you take turns watching each other’s pets, keeping a watchful eye out for the safety of your homes, or spending time learning about the people and families around you, simply taking the time to develop these connections are an important investment and can even lead to friendships that last for years to come.
