While remote work is generally very positive, there are also some downsides as well. Just as a hybrid role or being completely in an office can have as well.
But one challenge that often comes up with remote workers is feeling lonely or isolated in their home. Since you are virtual. you no longer have that immediate social connection to managers or co-workers.
And for the majority of human beings, we need those social interactions for our mental health and overall well-being. So this tends to be a common issue for many when working remotely, and more so if it’s the first time you are in this work setting.
If you are looking to best avoid loneliness or isolation when working remotely, stick with me as I share some key tips below.
Avoiding Loneliness or Isolation When Working Remotely
In Buffer’s 2023 State of Remote Work report surveying 3,000 global remote workers, 1 in 3 remote workers said their biggest struggle is staying home too often because they don’t have a reason to leave. And 23% of workers also reported loneliness as an issue
And in a survey by Glassdoor, more than a third of those working remotely said the setup made them feel isolated and lonely.
Yet most remote workers would still choose to stay remote for the rest of their careers. I think that says something about the value and positive impact people see. Yet it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t find ways to avoid loneliness or isolation creeping in.
1. Create a Routine That Includes Social Activities
Having a balanced routing is crucial when you’re working remotely.
It’s easy to get caught up in work and forget to take breaks or socialize, but incorporating social activities into your day can make a big difference.
Think about setting up virtual coffee breaks with your colleagues. These breaks allow you to recharge and help you stay connected with your team. It’s a simple yet effective way to break the monotony and keep loneliness at bay.
And if your company has Slack, you can implement something like Donut that can randomly assign you virtual chats with different co-workers, water cooler moments, and more.
2. Join Online Communities of Other Remote Workers
Diving into online communities around remote work can be a game-changer for combating the isolation of remote work.
Platforms like Slack, Reddit and LinkedIn Groups are treasure troves of like-minded individuals who have shared experiences with you. And can be a great way to network and connect with similar people talking about home offices, combating loneliness and isolation, professional advice, and more.
Joining these groups expands your network and provides a sense of belonging and connection with others who share your interests. Give it a shot, and you might find your next virtual hangout spot or a helpful tip that boosts your work!
3. Set Up Regular Check-Ins with Colleagues
Regular communication is vital, especially considering only 34% of U.S. employees felt engaged in their work in 2021. This statistic highlights the critical role of staying connected in combating loneliness and boosting engagement and productivity.
Setting up weekly or bi-weekly virtual meetings with your team can make a huge difference.
These regular check-ins allow you to collaborate more effectively, share updates and catch up. Even ask them how they prevent loneliness, isolation, or burnout. It’s a straightforward strategy that can help keep everyone on the same page and feel more connected.
4. Attend Networking Events and Workshops
Attending virtual networking events and workshops is an excellent way to break the ice of isolation. Or look for ones in your local area that you can attend during your work week.
These events expand your professional network and are fantastic opportunities to meet new people who share your interests and to learn new things.
Interacting with others in these settings can inject refreshing energy into your daily routine, making remote work feel less lonely and much more engaging.
5. Create a Comfortable and Inspiring Work Environment
A well-set-up home workspace does wonders for your morale.
It’s not just about having a functional space — personalizing your work area makes it more inviting and can significantly uplift your spirit.
Whether adding a plant for a touch of greenery, hanging up inspirational quotes or arranging your desk with your favorite colors and gadgets, these personal touches make your workspace uniquely yours.
This environment boosts your productivity and helps you feel more connected and less isolated. It creates a little sanctuary where you can enjoy your work and stay motivated throughout the day.
6. Exercise Regularly and Eat Healthy
Exercise is a powerhouse when it comes to boosting your mental health.
Regular walks outside or exercising can dramatically break the monotony of your daily routine, refreshing your mind and body.
When you integrate these workouts with healthy eating habits, the benefits multiply. For example, some foods, like those with omega-3s, can help decrease the risk of depression. Plan meals that will nourish your mind and body.
This combination of physical activity and mindful eating is a fantastic way to uplift your mood, combat loneliness and keep you motivated and connected to your well-being.
7. Adopt a Pet or Start a New Hobby
The companionship of a pet offers unmatched benefits, bringing joy, comfort and a sense of family to your daily life.
Whether the enthusiastic greeting from a dog or the calming presence of a cat, pets can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and stress.
On top of this, diving into new hobbies you can do at home — be it painting, coding, gardening or crafting — adds a fresh layer of excitement and creativity to your routine.
These activities provide a fun escape and help you develop new skills and interests, which enrich your life and make your remote work experience more fulfilling and balanced.
8. Volunteer for Causes You Care About
Volunteering is a fantastic way to connect with others and give back to your community. It offers a sense of purpose and fulfillment hard to find elsewhere.
Various opportunities can suit your interests and schedule, from virtual volunteering from the comfort of your home to getting involved in local projects where you live.
By mentoring students online or participating in community events, you can meet new people, make a positive impact and avoid growing feelings of isolation when working remotely.
Plus, it’s a rewarding experience that benefits those you’re helping and enriches your life by broadening your perspective and connections.
9. Plan Social Activities with Friends and Family
Maintaining relationships outside of work is incredibly important, especially for remote workers. Social connections are crucial in improving people’s ability to recover from stress and anxiety, acting as a buffer against the pressures of daily life.
Planning regular meet-ups or video calls with friends and family ensures you’re nurturing these essential connections, which keeps loneliness at bay.
It creates valuable moments that enrich your life, provide support and enhance your overall well-being. So, make it a priority to reach out and connect with your loved ones and share experiences and laughter, no matter where you are.
10. Consider Co-working Spaces or Coffee Shops
Changing up your work environment can have a surprisingly positive impact on your productivity and well-being.
For instance, co–working spaces and coffee shops offer fantastic alternatives to the home office and provide a sense of community. And if anything, it’s nice to be surrounded by other individuals.
These spaces introduce you to new people and offer a refreshing scenery change, which can spark creativity and boost motivation. The casual interactions and vibrant atmosphere can lessen loneliness and make work more engaging and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a little variety in your workday, consider stepping out and exploring the communal energy of a co-working space or your local coffee shop.
11. Participate in Virtual Team Building Activities and Retreats
Any company that is offering remote work, should be invested in virtual team building activities. This is a great way to help build the culture, but get those social interactions up among team members.
If your company does not offer virtual team building activities yet, you can suggest it and send them to a platform like Confetti. This is a service that allows you to easily discover and book different team events.
The other tip is to participate in retreats. For remote-first companies, most will plan one or two retreats for the whole team to get together. It won’t completely solve your remote work loneliness, but it’s a start to feeling more connected and escape during the year.
You can use a platform like Offsite to better plan and book places for retreats. While you might not be in charge of this, you can always pass along to a manager or HR if they want better options.
Turning the Tide on Remote Work Loneliness
Give these tips a shot and see how they can transform your remote work experience and make it more connected and fulfilling. You might find that a small change can make a big difference in overcoming loneliness and boosting your happiness.
However, if the tips do not help or you feel remote work is negatively impacting your health, then it might be time to consider a job change.
You can look for hybrid jobs, which allow you some flexibility to work from home and also go to the office. Or maybe you’d prefer being in the office five days a week.
While I love remote work and will continue to advocate for it, there is no shame in preferring hybrid or being completely in the office either.
About Cora Gold
Cora Gold is a freelance writer and editor of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist, and is a remote work advocate. Connect with Cora on LinkedIn and Twitter.
