Are You a Good Neighbor – or The One Everyone Hates?
Most of us humans are quite adept at recognizing what annoys us. But you’re perfectly normal if you aren’t quite as conscious of how what you’re doing might be affecting others. And there’s no place that’s more evident than on the home front.
Lots of neighborhoods seem to have their resident who frustrates, annoys, or infuriates everyone else. Hopefully, that’s not you. But are you a truly good neighbor who takes care to contribute a positive vibe to the neighborhood? Or are you one of those who on occasion forgets to consider how your actions might affect others?
With summer approaching, now is a good time for a few reminders to keep you from becoming the neighbor that everyone hates!
Is Your Curb Appeal Appealing?
Whether you’re a homeowner or are renting, you probably appreciate the visual appeal of well-kept properties. And in fact, it’s about more than just the look. Neighborhoods that are manicured and tidy have higher resale values than those that are not.
Got weeds? Have a drab or plain looking yard that has little or no flowers or shrubs? The texture and color variations of plants and hard landscaping (rocks, stone, pavers and such) add a visual richness that both you and your neighbors will appreciate.
Pets Are Awesome – Unless You Don’t Like Pets
Sure, you love your pet. In the U.S., 68% of us have a pet of one sort or another. But that means there are 32% of us out there who don’t have a pet. For whatever reason, they’ve chosen to forego the joys of having a small creature around the house. Odds are, they don’t want your creature, either.
While many cities have regulations regarding pets, it’s still primarily up to you, the pet owner, to be mindful of your non- pet loving neighbors. So keep these pet tips in mind:
- Don’t let dogs or cats run off leash.
- Pick up droppings and properly dispose of them.
- If your dog loves to bark, consider training classes to quiet them down.
About Those Odors and Noises
You may be one of the lucky ones who have never been downwind of annoying smells or smoke, or both. I’ve had both, and I can tell you it destroys your outdoor experience. From the neighbor who liked to cook terrible smelling concoctions to the one who liked to (illegally) burn household trash, I’ve had a nosefull.
Have you ever been working two jobs, or three, and maybe even going to school? Those times when every minute of sleep isn’t a luxury but a necessity? And the neighbor’s music or dog or loud car exhaust kept you awake? No, you don’t want to be that neighbor.
Odors and sounds have a way of wafting through the air an amazing distance. So if you’re engaging in any activity that is noxious to the nose or might be an auditory assault, remember that your neighbors may not find it as tolerable as you.
It’s All About Balance
Yes, it’s true that your space is your space. But your space is part of a neighborhood. Being a good neighbor means remaining conscious of the feelings and needs of those who share that space with you. It’s easy. Just remember the words of wisdom that came from your Mom, to treat others the way you’d want to be treated. So keep a healthy balance of respecting both yourself and your neighbor and you’ll both be happier!
