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Homes have become the new workplace environment. There was excitement about the flexibility and freedom that came with working from home. Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, then reality settled in as challenges began showing a long way. Technical issues, slow internet speeds, and miscommunications via online tools. The biggest challenge that stands out is the lack of social engagement leading to feelings of isolation.
Emotional effects of working remotely
As humans, having social interaction gives us a sense of satisfaction. Our place of work contributes to the interactions we make with co-workers and clients. Working from home has caused many to feel separated and isolated from their community. As time goes by, you discover just how much you miss the weekly meetings, lunch breaks, and conversations with colleagues from work. Solitude weighs you down and loneliness slowly creeps in. If it is not addressed, it will have negative effects on your emotional health.
However, there is some good news for you. Whether you have been working from home or are new to it, there are healthy ways to cope with loneliness while working from home as highlighted below.
1. Set up a routine
Working from home tends to give a false impression that you have all the time in the world. This is why having a schedule adds structure to your day. Making simple changes like getting up early, grooming yourself, having breakfast and start doing your daily tasks. This gives you the momentum to be more productive with your day. At all costs avoid working in your bedroom. If you don’t mind, why not have some background music playing to create a sense of companionship. There is a correlation between the amount of sleep you get and the feelings of loneliness. Getting enough sleep is equally important.
2. Get physically active
Break the monotony of always being indoors. Get some fresh air and sunlight for 15-30 minutes a day. For example, you can take a morning run or go for a walk to unwind and just have a change of scenery. Doing some physical activities releases endorphins which help combat anxiety and depression. Check out platforms like YouTube which have tons of fun workout exercises.
3. Keep in touch
Physical distance is no longer an issue because technology has helped us stay connected. Even if you can’t meet in person, you can have video calls on different social media platforms to bridge the social isolation gap. Go ahead and make time to keep in touch with your friends or workmates. It will uplift your energy levels to see them virtually and catch up on how they are doing.
4. Healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a work-life balance starts with watching what you feed your mind and body. The development of bad habits to cope with loneliness is becoming common. Some of those bad habits are binge eating and spending too much time on social media. Minimize your screen time and break from depressing news about the Covid-19 situation. Remember to eat healthy foods like fruits to boost your energy.
5. Hobbies
Step out of your comfort zone and master a new craft. It could be volunteering online or starting a new project that you have been pushing back. You can even make it more fun by involving others and turn it into a collective project. For example, find people with similar interests like reading and create a book club. Take a break and do whatever you love to take your mind off of work. You will feel less lonely and utilize your creative side.
6. Network
When your home becomes your office, it is hard to draw lines between work and personal hours. Once you are done working, try to make a new friend or find a mentor. Go for people with similar interests and connect with them. For example, attend virtual networking events and build your network. This is for you to set boundaries and time to socialize.
7. Think Positive
Switching working places to indoors isolates you from people. The reality is you are not alone in this. Many people are feeling isolated and lonely. It is a silent struggle. Just because you feel lonely doesn't mean you are alone. Keep negative thoughts away and change your outlook. Focus on the brighter side of working from home to lessen the feeling of isolation. If that doesn’t seem to work, just read or watch videos that are inspiring and give you hope for the day. Changing your mindset affects your whole mood.
Conclusion
Loneliness affects all of us and everyone’s situation is different. For most, it is a difficult change to adjust to. Feelings of laziness and depression can make you less motivated to take action on coping with loneliness. Be proactive and intentional as you apply these tips to overcome them. Learn to be content and enjoy your own company even in solitude. Be mindful of your progress and what works for you. At the end of the day, working on you is the greatest investment. It is never a waste of time. We are all trying to adjust and cope with our fears of isolation. Just take it one day at a time and eventually you will feel better.
What are some of your tips on dealing with loneliness as you work from home? Share your thoughts and let us know in the comment section below