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StitcherAsking for help can be super awkward, uncomfortable, and scary. But here’s the thing: not having a close-knit community is costing us more than we realize. It’s not just about missing out on the occasional favor, it’s about missing out on the support and fun that comes from having a strong community around us. In this episode, Jen and Jill dives into the beauty of the little favors community.
We glorify individual ability and self-sufficiency, which are great—but to be human is to need. So, too, is to give.
Sponsors:
- The Industrial Revolution. A cup of sugar. We all know the old adage. Borrowing from neighbors was once a commonplace practice, but thanks to the industrial revolution we now have access to affordable modern technology like transportation, grocery stores, and now even delivery! But all that access comes at a price. If you’re feeling the pinch of lack of community, open a HYSA at CIT!
Check out some relevant episodes
The Cost of Individualism Culture
This article by Money with Katie delves into the little favors economy that highlights the value of community with our spending and the good in being willing to offer a lend in a helping hand or asking for help.
What Jen + Jill have to say:
Jill retells the story from the article about Katie’s growing relationships with her neighbors. She observed that these connections were evolving into a reciprocal relationships, where checking in on each other and exchanging baked goods had become normalized—so what they called “little favors” economy.
This concept of the “little favors” economy captured Jen’s attention. The resurgence of this idea in the community feels like turning over a new leaf. Because individualism has often led us to think that asking for help or needing support is an unacceptable burden. As a result, we sometimes prefer to pay for services rather than ask a friend for assistance, driven by the fear of being seen as needy, boundaryless, or inadequately self-sufficient.
Beauty of Little Favors
The fear of being a burden not only drives us to rely on money but also weakens our ability to maintain human connections, care for one another, and even go out of our way for the sake of a loved one. But if you look the other way around, little favors create trust and common ground, emphasizing on the beauty of asking for what you need lies not just in receiving it, but also in allowing others the opportunity to give. While being capable is important, it’s also essential to recognize that, as a human, you have needs and, equally, something to offer in return.
Ways to Connect With Your Neighbors
This article by The Welcoming Table shares awesome ways to create friendships in your neighborhood, street, or either side of your house.
What Jen + Jill have to say:
Jen suggests making your front yard a place of gathering. If you have the capacity, hosting get-togethers is also a great idea. If you have kids, it’s an opportunity to invite them for playdates or invite families over for dinner.
While Jill finds it amazing how something as simple as taking walks around the neighborhood can lead to connecting with people and finding long-term friends. Plus, if you enjoy being in the know, the tea is always lovely. She added that helping with post-storm cleanup, sharing meals, and lending items are great for bonding. And, using your cute pets to start conversations works wonders!
When was the last time you asked a friend for help?
Jill has trouble asking others for help, but despite the uncomfortable feeling, she gathered the courage to encourage her Instagram friends and followers to pre-order Buy What You Love Without Going Broke! For Jen, it has been networking to make new connections. Most recently, she even asked a stranger to watch her baby.
Bill of The Week
Thank you Mary for sharing your SECOND bill about saving $700 ($1400 by the end of the year) by getting all books from the library!
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