Do YOU Know Your Neighbors? 5 Tips to Know

This blog will discuss ways to know your neighbors.

The goal is to create a community of togetherness and awareness. So many, including myself, get caught up in the day-to-day activities, that we don’t take the time to appreciate the small things in addition to the big things. Our focus is to make sure we eat, go to work, attend to our families and pray that everything turns out ok. Then, we start again the next day ensuring everyone is taken care of in every way we know how. I say, WE should appreciate the small and the big things in life, continue to be the motivators to others and motivate ourselves with knowledge and encouragement. Take in what God has given US, the big, the small, the bad, the chaos, the peace, your culture, someone else’s culture.

It is easy to stereotype people, things, countries, and the list goes on and on. One thing I do know is that there are good and bad actions done in every race, culture, society and that will never change. But what we can do to make things better is to get to know others. I mean really get to know them based on interactions and through conversations, not just from their nationality, race, nor what was told about them or what your first visual impression of them told you.

Back in the day, we used to know our neighbors, at least everyone on our street or block. Now, we have become so diverse and off to ourselves, or so busy with our lives that we fail to connect with our neighbors. I can say, I speak to my neighbors, and know their names. But do I really know them?

How well do you know your neighbors?

• Do you know your neighbor on each side of you? (right, left, front, back)
• Do you know your neighbor’s name?
• Do you know one fun fact about your neighbor?
• Do you know what your neighbor does for a living?
• Does your neighbor attend any regular events?
• Can you talk to your neighbor about politics or religion?
• Have you ever borrowed something from your neighbor?
• Have you ever given or loaned something to your neighbor?
• Do you know if your neighbor is originally from the city you live in or not?

If you answered yes to 6 or more questions, we think you know your neighbor more than most people.  If you answered less, think about the benefits of getting to know your neighbor.

Benefits of knowing your neighbors

• Belonging – when people have a sense of belonging, they can overcome loneliness and depression
• Support – some neighbors help with such things as watching a home or even a pet, while the other is away; and knowing someone is near can help in a time of need is a great community booster – we had a neighbor that lost power one year, so we let them use our electricity
• Safety – when you know your neighbors, everyone can look out for threats to the community, noticing things that are not right, preventing theft, or recognizing when someone may need a good will check if they haven’t been seen in a while.
• Collaborations – when you know your neighbor, and you have things in common, you can work on projects together; you can network in a multitude of areas

Here are some tips on getting to know your neighbors without fear for feeling that you are overstepping your boundaries:

GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS

Getting to know your neighbors can create a sense of community and safety in your neighborhood. Here are five ways to do it while feeling safe and confident:

1. Start with Simple Introductions:
   • Begin by introducing yourself when you see your neighbors outside. A friendly smile and a wave can go a long way in initiating conversation.
   • If you’re feeling a bit nervous, wait for natural opportunities such as checking the mail or walking your dog to strike up a conversation.
2. Attend Neighborhood Events:
   • Many neighborhoods host community events like block parties, potlucks, or yard sales. Attend these events to meet your neighbors in a relaxed environment.
   • Larger community events organized by local associations or councils can also be great places to mingle with people from your neighborhood.
3. Join Online Neighborhood Groups:
   • Many neighborhoods have online forums or social media groups where residents can connect and communicate.
   • Participate in these groups to ask questions, offer help, or simply introduce yourself. It’s a low-pressure way to get to know your neighbors, especially if you’re more comfortable with digital interactions.
4. Offer Help and Support:
   • Show your neighbors that you’re a friendly and helpful member of the community by offering assistance when needed.
   • Whether it’s helping with yard work, lending tools, or watching their pets while they’re away, acts of kindness can foster positive relationships.
5. Organize a Neighborhood Watch or Community Cleanup:
   • Initiating a neighborhood watch program or organizing a community cleanup can bring neighbors together for a common cause.
   • These activities not only improve the safety and cleanliness of your neighborhood but also provide opportunities for neighbors to interact and get to know each other better.

Remember to always trust your instincts and prioritize your safety when getting to know new people. If you’re unsure about someone, take things slowly and gradually build trust over time.

CHALLENGE

I would like to challenge you to learning all the names of people on your street or where you live. For those who already know your neighbors, awesome! Maybe you can send us tips on things you do to lean into your community. To those who just moved to a new environment or lived there all your life, let’s go! Let’s create a safer environment.

FUN FACTS:

A majority of Americans (57%) say they know only some of their neighbors; far fewer (26%) say they know most of them.

Even in a digital age, neighborly interactions are still more likely to happen in person than via text or email.

About two-thirds of Americans who know at least some of their neighbors (66%) would feel comfortable asking to leave a set of keys with them for emergencies.

Social events among neighbors are relatively rare.

Rural residents are more likely than people in suburban and urban areas to know all or most of their neighbors, but they aren’t more likely to interact with them.

Facts taken from Pew Research

National Good Neighbor Day – in the US September 24, 2024

National Neighbor Day – in Australia March 31, 2024

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Who Knew, Did You?

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