Dealing With Isolation When You Work Remotely

Working remotely comes with many benefits, mostly related to the convenience of not having to commute to the office every day. Remote workers can sleep in a little longer, save money on gas, and have the comforts that come with being at home. But working remotely can also make you feel isolated. Not going into the office and seeing coworkers every day can be a major downside for many people, especially those who thrive on social interactions. However, there are things you can do to reduce those feelings of isolation. 

Interact virtually  

Even the most introverted person may feel lonely after working remotely for a long period of time. Feelings of loneliness may be eased if you can find ways to interact with your coworkers virtually. Most managers would encourage interaction between colleagues to enhance morale and provide an easy way to collaborate. If you’re not yet aware of a system that allows you to interact with others, ask your manager about implementing video chats or online meetings so you can feel connected to others during the workday. 

Isolation can impede your productivity

Some people are more productive when working remotely while others may crave that the social interaction that comes from working near others. If you work remotely but find yourself feeling isolated, it’s important not to let that affect your productivity. Find ways to make connections with others in a similar situation. Use your break time or lunch to call a friend, take your dog for a short walk, or just get outside for a few minutes to signal to your brain that it’s time for a break. Changing up your scenery and interacting with someone else even for a brief period can help you get back on task. 

If you work remotely, you’ve likely experienced some ups and downs. While it’s nice to not have to commute daily, it can also feel isolating to work alone. If you find that you’re negatively affected by isolation, find ways to connect with others during the workday. Whether you group chat with your coworkers or go outside to chat with your neighbor during your lunch break, make those connections so the loneliness doesn’t affect your work or your mental health.