When you’re mostly or always alone, it’s easy to start feeling isolated at home. You might even begin to think that you’re not cut out for remote work and need to get back to an in-office job. Try making a few adjustments in your current work setup first before hitting that “Apply” button. To fight off the blues when you’re located remotely, try some of these tips:
1) Find a Coworking Space
Coworking spaces are a great option for professionals who crave a sense of community in their office environment. According to Harvard Business Reviews, coworking space professionals tend to thrive more than those working in traditional offices. They often find their work more meaningful and their jobs less constricting, and they appreciate community support for their professional growth.
Another study from Research Policy found that coworking provides friends and social support, especially to less-advantaged entrepreneurs during difficult times. When considering a coworking space, don’t forget to factor in tech essentials for productivity. Although it may cost a bit extra, you’ll likely enjoy the creative work environment and convenient amenities that come with most coworking spaces.
2) Connect With Others Using Apps and Smart Gadgets
Technology has made staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues much easier, even when you’re not tied to a physical office for eight hours or more. For instance, apps like My Location give you the option to share your live location with others and help you know their location as well. The Garmin Connect app on Garmin smartwatches also has interactive features, letting you create groups, compete in fitness challenges, and comment on each other’s progress.
3) Join Online or Offline Communities
Joining an online community related to your work is a great way to expand your network, even when you’re working remotely. For example, developers can join GitHub, Stack Overflow, or Reddit’s programming communities. Alternatively, you can join online or offline groups that are not work-related. For instance, Facebook has virtual book clubs and Kindle communities for bookworms, as well as hobbyist and fan clubs for a variety of interests. Finally, you can also look for volunteer groups around your area.
4) Visit Your Office if You Have a Flexible Work Setup
Connection with colleagues is important, even when working remotely. Meeting in person can help maintain a sense of normalcy and ease loneliness. Additionally, it can be fun to brainstorm face-to-face every once in a while.
There are ways to deal with office distractions effectively, so you don’t have to feel resentful every time you’re required to go there. Common workplace distractions include noise, clutter, and long unproductive meetings. By being aware of these distractions and taking steps to avoid them, you can make the most of your time in the office.
5) Take Periodic Work Breaks
It can be easy to feel isolated and lonely at work, especially when you’re stuck behind a desk all day. But there are things you can do to help ease those feelings and stay connected.
One way is to take regular breaks, even just a few minutes at a time. Get up and move around during your break. Search for exercise videos on YouTube for a quick workout. Or try a mindfulness app like Headspace for expert guidance on topics such as loneliness and relaxation.
Taking some time for yourself will help refresh your mind and body. In contrast, long periods of work without rest will only burn you out and make you feel more lonely once your task is done. Give yourself short breaks, and you’ll be ready to tackle the rest of your workday with new energy.
Working Remotely Doesn’t Mean Being Lonely
The loneliness that you feel when working remotely is valid and real. However, there are many ways to lessen this. Working remotely doesn’t necessarily mean being cut off from a healthy social life. It can actually give you the chance to try alternative workspaces, meet new friends, strengthen existing relationships, and pursue new hobbies.
Use the technology available to you, find activities that you enjoy, and get involved in your community. It pays to be intentional about logging out from work, so you can start exploring the opportunities that make flexible working arrangements enjoyable.
