Developing better relationships with neighbours

Good neighbours are a lot like electricity or running water: we don’t know how much we depend on them until we don’t have them. They make our lives more pleasant and give us a sense of who we are, both as an individual and as a member of the community. Here’s how to develop your relationships with these very important people in your life.

Strike up a conversation. Often neighbours don’t even know each other’s names. 【小题1】 Most neighbours enjoy making small talk with the folks on the other side of the fence. So as you see them at work in their yards, smile, wave, and say hello. Ask how their kids are (whether they’re babies or in college), whether they could use an extra cucumber from your garden, or what they think of the price at the local supermarket.

Reach out to the newcomers. These days, the old Welcome Wagon is a thing of the past. But your new neighbours may be feeling lonely and unsure, especially if they’re far from home, and might appreciate a friendly face bearing fresh-baked chocolate cakes. 【小题2】 Invite them over for coffee or tea when they get settled, give them your number, and point to your house as you say goodbye.

Avoid causing inconveniences. Return anything that you borrow from a neighbour, such as tools, in good repair and as soon as you’ve finished with them. Replace anything that belongs to your neighbour that you, your children, or your pets break or soil. Make sure that your car is not blocking his doorway. 【小题3】 The talk will be good.

【小题4】 In a good relationship, it’s really the little things that count. Help to bring in the mail for an elderly neighbour when there is a heavy rain. When a neighbour forgets to take in his rubbish cans, roll them back into his yard. If you’re truly concerned, you’ll know when your neighbour needs some cheering up — a bunch of flowers or a helping hand when it’s needed. All it takes to develop your relationships with your neighbours is the respect for their feelings.