52 Weeks of Neighboring - Week 43

/
52 Weeks of-logo.png

Neighboring Tip of the Week - Ask a neighbor to watch over your home while you are away.

The holiday season is upon us! This time of year is not only a time of great celebration and joyful festivities but also a time off from both work and school. What does this mean? Over the next few weeks, many people will be traveling to visit family, friends, or simply to take a vacation.

In response, the tip we propose is this: Ask a neighbor to watch over your home while you are away. Per usual with our neighboring tips, this tip may look very different for each person. Maybe this looks like having your neighbor simply keep an eye on your house. Maybe this looks like having your neighbor feed your cat. Maybe this looks like having your neighbor come water your indoor plants a couple of times. You get the point. 

Three important things to keep in mind: First, we suggest asking a neighbor to do this only if you know them well enough for it to be a natural ask. Second, keep respectfulness in mind; do not force your neighbor to take your dog out four times a day or to do anything else that might become a burden for them. This should not be a super time-intensive commitment for your neighbor. Third, if you plan to ask your neighbor for help in this way, make sure you do so in advance; do not ask your neighbor to help with some responsibility at your house the day before you leave on a big trip.

While seemingly simple, think of the implications of such an action! This is an exercise of humility, and think of what this displays to your neighbor in terms of trust. The simple action of asking your neighbor for help tells them that you trust them!

Also, this neighboring tip will be featured on this Tuesday’s episode of our podcast, The Neighbor Next Door! Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 

Happy neighboring!