The benefits of being neighbourly

By Danielle Pope

The benefits of being neighbourly
Everybody needs good neighbours, and now, more than ever we're seeing the importance of building close community connections.

Ask previous generations what life was like growing up, and they will more often than not tell stories about neighbourhood barbecues, street parties and playing with other kids in the neighbourhood.

Before the pandemic, there was less of a neighbourhood culture. We tended to lead busier lives, less of us are staying at home throughout the day, and the increase in apartment living means that there is a less of that familiarity you get between seeing one another out on the street on a daily basis. Added to this the increasing pressures of work, commuting, family and social commitments, and we may have lost those important neighbour connections.

But now, more than ever, we need to embrace a neighbourly attitude.

Sharing Space

Lots of communities have parks and open spaces, as well as other shared amenities. Even if you live in a high rise apartment building, you are bound to be sharing a carpark, driveway or maybe a gym. Having a better connection with your neighbours means that you can more easily enjoy these shared assets together.

Dispute Resolution

Overly chatty neighbour? Or perhaps the guy above you likes to pump his music late at night? Putting a face to a name and actually meeting your neighbours means you have an opportunity to talk out any of these issues before they inflame. Plus it’s always easier to empathise with someone you know.

Pet Sitting

Going on holiday? Neighbours are a great resource for minding your pet, checking your mail or putting your bins out.

Security

Neighbourhood watches have been shown to be extremely effective across diverse communities. Even if it is just having someone know who you are and generally what is going on with you, it is always good to have someone looking out for you.

Bulk Shopping

If you are lucky enough to live in a community with a shared garden, you already know the benefits of trading with your neighbours. A big trend in modern communities is taking advantage of buying in bulk, and who better to share this with than the folks next door? This can be particular advantageous for home delivery services.

These are just some of the reasons why you should get to know the people around you. Who knows? You may even make a friend.

Read more about how you can help out your neighbours during lockdown. 

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Print Recipe

BECOME A MiNDFOOD SUBSCRIBER TODAY

Let us keep you up to date with our weekly MiNDFOOD e-newsletters which include the weekly menu plan, health and news updates or tempt your taste buds with the MiNDFOOD Daily Recipe. 

Member Login