Should you know your neighbour? It probably doesn’t feel vital, but it has more benefits than you think. These days, the way we live, work, and interact is changing as the Internet expands its reach. Research shows that an average of one in six people do not know their neighbours even by name. It’s easy to blame this on our busy lifestyles since technology has made it easier to disconnect from our neighbours and friends.

While creating a bond with your neighbour may seem unnecessary, especially for millennials, it gives you some sense of belonging and purpose in your neighbourhood. This does not mean that you should be best friends with them; you only need to make them your acquaintance. Let us explore more of why it is vital to know your neighbour.

Photo, Markus Spiske.

1 – You Feel Safer

Building a connection with your neighbour helps create a safe environment for you and your family. The norm of good neighbours is to look out for each other’s property, especially when one is not around. You can travel for longer holidays or work assignments without worrying about the safety of your house. Save yourself the trouble and cost of looking for a house sitter when you are away! You can count on your next-door friend for security.

Moreover, living in a proactive and united community assists in deterring crime and promotes a safer region. So, whether you are around or not, you will always feel safe. The secret to that is to create a good rapport with your neighbours.

2 – You Have A Friend In Times of Need

There is a good chance that your next-door neighbour has something you might need. When you have a neighbour willing to help, you don’t need to hurry to the store in the middle of the night to acquire sugar for your cup of tea. Similarly, you don’t need to purchase an expensive tool for single use if your neighbour already has one.

Asking your neighbours for help or any household item you might need should not be embarrassing. Knowing that you can get help close by makes life more convenient. However, you must remember that these relationships thrive on reciprocity, so you must be prepared to assist in return.

3 – Harmonious Living

Having a good relationship with your neighbour does not mean you will forever be on good terms. We say to err is human. Once in a while, you might get into conflict with your neighbour. Whether because your music is too loud, your children got into a fight over toys, or you are invading their space, among other issues. However, it is more likely that you can resolve the conflict amicably and peacefully if you know, respect, and like your neighbours. There will be no need to involve a third party, such as the police.

4 – You can Find Long-Term Friendship

Regular encounters with your neighbour could also spark up friendships that may not have otherwise happened. The more you see each other on the driveway, corridor, or lift, among other places, the more you grow fond of each other. The conversation quickly goes from just greetings to learning more about each other’s day. Before you know it, you are holding game nights at each other’s houses. With time, you realise you share many more similarities than you initially thought.

Besides expanding your social circle, your neighbours can also be instrumental in your business and career growth. What are friends for if you do not grow with each other? As the friendship grows, you connect with each other’s networks of friends and family who can benefit your business and career growth at some point in your life.

5 – Babysitting

The future holds surprises, and at one time, you might really need a nanny but not be able to find one on time. This is where your neighbour comes in. When children are involved, neighbours are a critical support system. A solid relationship with your neighbour would spare you this hassle during such circumstances. For a day or two, they may safely house your kids or animals without feeling burdened by you.

Additionally, there is no need to be concerned about their safety. You may go about your day confidently, knowing that your children and pets are in good care.

Photo, Beth Macdonald.

How Do You Build a Bond With Your Neighbours?

Leaving the comfort of your home to meet your neighbours never seems to cross our minds. It feels kind of uncomfortable to connect with strangers or meet new people. However, when you think of possible challenges we’ve already discussed, know your neighbours will be the first line of defence. Hence, it would help if you got to know them and kept strong ties. They are your support system if your family or friends are far away.

Here are a few things you can do to form a connection with your neighbours and make your neighbourhood feel more like home.

1. You can start by looking them up on Nuwber to get an idea of their family or interests. It would also help to ask them upfront for these details, but what malicious person would sell themselves out? We also recommend using a people finder free online, so that you can see their social media, get their contact info, and find out if they may be dangerous.

2. If they are legit, constantly say hello when you meet them along the driveway or hallway.

3. Make an effort to get to know your neighbours when you move into a new community. Also, you can welcome your new neighbours by showing them around.

4. Respect their boundaries. Strong relationships are built on respect.

5. Invite them to special family events, birthday celebrations at your house, or occasionally for a casual dinner. Social events provide a better and more comfortable setting for conversations and getting to know one another.

6. Show them kindness. Always be prepared to give a hand if they require it. For example, carpooling to work or school, pet sitting, or watching their children.

7. Know your boundaries. You should know their limits and be able to keep your distance.

Conclusion

You get an extra degree of security in your home by getting to know your neighbours and building strong connections with them. In the absence of any family nearby, your neighbours serve as your second family. Therefore, knowing your neighbours and maintaining a cordial relationship with them is vital.