stress

Howdy, Neighbor!
Loretta LaRoche
Stress Expert and Author

It sounds simplistic, but a simple way to go back to a life of connection is to be more neighborly.

When’s the last time you invited your neighbors over for a cup of coffee? That idea may even make you wince with discomfort—it’s become almost corny to think of having pleasant interaction with the people next door. But in fact, this will make the area where you live more of a community—a place where people share interests and common courtesy, and give one another needed support and civility.

I know it might make you feel like Ozzie and Harriet, but if new neighbors move into the neighborhood, bring them a cake (make sure it’s low-fat—you never know) or a handmade gift. Let them know that they’re welcome by giving them your name and phone number, and offering to show them around town.

If one of your neighbors is ill, stop by and bring the family something to eat. These days, even those of us with good manners think it’s enough to send a card or some flowers. It isn’t. Making a genuine effort coupled with some personal contact is what will really form a connection.

ten simple ways to connect today

1. Smile at someone in the elevator.

2. Invite a co-worker to lunch.

3. Call your mother, or someone in your life who nurtures you.

4. Give someone a compliment and mean it.

5. Make small talk with the person who sells you your morning coffee.

6. Make a funny face in an unexpected place (like in line at the supermarket) until someone laughs.

7. Talk to your family during dinner, without any outside distractions.

8. Call someone you haven’t spoken to in a year.

9. Give someone in your life a gift, for no special reason other than you think they might like it.

Tell people that you appreciate what they do for you—perhaps your local firefighters or police officers. Wouldn’t they be shocked to have people drop by to say, “Thank you for being there in case we need you”?