Hey everyone, I’m Erin Patrice, and I'm excited to chat about this Life Hack and Neighboring Week! As the heart behind Breaking Bread Village and a member of Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition, I love the idea of "neighboring" – not just for Neighboring Week, it’s something we can carry beyond just this week.
The Life Hack I want to share with you today is Life Hack #41, Meeting People in Their Space. For me, this Life Hack is all about being willing to connect with people where they are without needing to agree with everything they say or do. Sometimes, we hesitate, thinking that showing up for someone means endorsing their choices, but it’s really about listening and creating understanding.
When I meet someone where they are, I make it clear that I see them and hear them, even if I don’t agree with their viewpoint. That connection can open up deeper conversations later on, but the first step is simply being present. For me, it’s so fulfilling because it reminds me that we're all worthy of someone’s time and attention, and that includes the other person as much as it includes me. I learn so much about myself during my conversation with others, and it supports my growth in being a good humanbeing.
If you want to try this Life Hack for size, start small. Next time you see a neighbor or someone you cross paths with regularly, maybe say more than just "hi." Ask a simple question, like how their day is going. You don’t have to dive deep, but taking that extra step helps build connection, and you never know where it might lead.
I encourage everyone to take part in Neighboring Week this week and embrace this Life Hack, start small, and see what happens when we truly meet people in their space.
