Credits: Social Media
My top 5 tips to avoid feeling lonely when working from home
Working from home has become the norm for many following the pandemic, and it certainly has its benefits. No commute, you can get up later, you don’t have to wear makeup and can do housework on your breaks. However, it’s common for people to start feeling lonely while working from home.
A study by Forbes in 2023 found 12.7% of full-time employees work from home and I’m one of them. I’ve been a remote worker for almost four years now and love every second. Here are my top five tips to avoid feeling isolated and enjoy the WFH life too.
1. Listen to the radio or a podcast
My first tip is listening to a music playlist, podcast or the radio while youre working. Silence will make your home feel really empty and thats when the loneliness kicks in, so you should always have something playing. Whether its Steven Bartletts The Diary of a CEO or Taylor Swifts new album, a little bit of background noise is key.
2. Go for a walk on your lunch break
Another great thing to do is go for a walk on your lunch break. If you can, meeting up with a friend or family member for some social time is a great idea, but even a slow stroll on your own will curb the feeling of isolation. A change of scenery breaks up the day and the fresh air will give you a new lease of life.
3. Work from a different location
Every now and again, you could try working from a different location like a cafe to change things up a bit, as the same four walls of your home office (or kitchen) can get dreary. You probably wont actually talk to anyone apart from the barista, but being around others in a public place will definitely stop you from feeling alone.
4. Remember to speak to colleagues
It sounds like a simple one, but dont forget to speak to your work colleagues, even if it is just a quick email or direct message. Do some typical office small talk from home and ask someone how their weekend was or find out what holidays they have booked. Itll give you a bit of social time, and you might brighten up their day too.
5. Go out straight after you finish work
Finally, my number one tip is to go straight out when you finish your shift. I like to head to the gym, but you could go and do the food shop, take the dog to the park or nip to the mall for a bit of retail therapy. Even if its just for half an hour, leaving the house will stop you feeling alone and help you switch off for the evening when you return.
