How to Manage Loneliness and Isolation as a Remote Worker
In the United States, there are three times more remote workers than there were in 2020. The numbers are increasing by the day and working remotely has its pros and cons.
As a remote worker, I can relate to many things that come with the package of working from home. The flexibility is great, you can work from your comfort zone without having to think about commuting but the package also comes with a dose of loneliness as well.
Unlike in-person jobs, where you have to relate with co-workers, remote jobs do not come with such luxury. The problem of loneliness in remote jobs is not only limited to the absence of social interactions but also includes the feeling of disconnectedness.
This feeling comes as a result of not having anyone to turn to for help in times of need at the job. The sense of isolation can result in lower job satisfaction, reduced productivity, and higher stress levels. I am going to be sharing some working tips that have helped me as a person to manage loneliness as a remote worker.
Work outside of your home sometimes
Getting out of the house, even if it's just for one day a week, can make a big difference in feeling less isolated. Instead of working from home all the time, try switching things up by working at a co-working space, coffee shop, or library. Seeing other people around can help you feel more connected to a community. I tried a co-working space in my community and it made a whole lot of difference.
If you know any other remote workers in your area, why not grab a coffee and work together? You might even find a new friend or collaborator. Sometimes, just being around other people who are also working remotely can make you feel less alone.
So, break out of your usual routine and try working from a different location. You might be surprised at how much it can improve your mood and productivity.
Maximize your schedule
The major reason for the feeling of loneliness for a remote worker is because of no social interactions but you could use what you have to get what you need. A remote worker unlike an in-person worker has more flexibility when it comes to schedule and this can be well-maximized to get better social interactions.
Don't let your online life overshadow the importance of real-world interactions. While virtual connections can be valuable, nothing beats the feeling of seeing a friend face-to-face, sharing a meal, or enjoying a shared experience.
Remember, your digital world will always be there, waiting for you to return. So, step away from the screen, plan your day for efficiency, and make plans to see people, go places, and do things that bring you joy and fulfillment.
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Form a social community with your team members
Instead of relating with your team members as coworkers alone, you can also build a social relationship with them, and build friendships with them regardless of where they are working from in the world.
Building social connections with your remote team can be a valuable way to combat feelings of isolation and maintain a strong sense of camaraderie. Leverage your company's existing communication tools, or create dedicated channels for social interactions.
Share photos of your pets, discuss your favorite hobbies, or organize virtual happy hours to foster a sense of community. I connected better with one of my previous coworkers when we had a random discussion on football, we both support rival teams, and that fueled our conversations and banter.
Own a pet
I learned this from a webinar, I attended last year where the facilitators made a very valid point about how owning a pet can be a game-changer for us when it comes to dealing with loneliness and building healthy mental health as a remote worker.
Pets can be more than just companions; they can be lifelines for remote workers battling loneliness. A dog's tail wag or a cat's purr can provide instant comfort and companionship. Daily walks with a pet offer opportunities for outdoor time and social interactions.
Even caring for a pet's needs can provide a sense of purpose and routine. Plus, pets can be excellent conversation starters, making it easier to connect with others.
After all is said and done
Remote workers often face the challenge of loneliness, but it's not inevitable. To overcome isolation, consider these strategies: stay in touch with colleagues and build a social relationship with them, plan your day efficiently, get out of your house sometimes, and consider a pet companion. By taking those proactive steps even while working remotely, you can reap the rewards of remote work without being lonely.
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Meet The Writer!
I'm Favour, a content writer, copywriter, and graphics designer with a passion for making brands shine. I help businesses and individuals create content and designs that convert. My goal? Make your brand awesome, one word/image at a time.
When I'm not working, you can find me playing (bad) football, eating (too much), or watching football highlights (guilty pleasure!). Do you want to say something to me or do you want me to be of help? Connect with me via https://linktr.ee/favouraderibigbe.
