Be a better neighbor
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A Mister Rogers-like approach to being a neighbor could be good for you.
Why it matters: The U.S. is experiencing an epidemic of loneliness, and studies suggest that cultivating better relationships with those who live nearby is crucial for your happiness.
What's happening: A lack of social connections is linked to poor mental health and premature death.
- And a review of studies suggests that loneliness can be as bad for your health as cigarette smoking.
The intrigue: Living close to friends or family is a "cheat code for living a happy life," says Phil Levin, founding member of the car-free neighborhood Culdesac in Tempe.
- With that in mind, Levin last year launched LiveNearFriends, a site that sends alerts for home listings available within a five-minute radius of your friends.
As for how to be a better neighbor now, artist Maceo Paisley — who studies human connection and is a major Mister Rogers fan — has tips.
- Try small talk. Learning what someone's native language is and whether they work night shifts "allows us to know and care about each other," Paisley says.
- Don't be transactional. Focus on your commitment to the whole neighborhood to avoid acting only in your own interest.
The bottom line: Knowing and caring for the people you live near is good for the neighborhood, and can be a boon for your health and happiness.