There are so many benefits that can be gained from working at home. But one problem that can be difficult to master is the loneliness associated with it. Loneliness can often hit those who are new to working from home, as they get used to a change in their working patterns, but it isn’t always the case. Often, those who are used to working solo can experience loneliness too. So if you’re looking for ways to tackle loneliness while working from home, here are some tips that will help keep it at bay.
A change of scenery can help tackle loneliness
It can be really demotivating working at home. You’re spending long periods of time on your own, and working in your home can often mean you feel like you don’t switch off once your day is over. To help keep you motivated, creative and generally inspired, look to give yourself a change of scenery, at least once or twice a week. This can mean anything from a change of room or a move to work outside, right through to working in a local coffee shop.
Build in networking time with your colleagues or team
Another great way to tackle the loneliness of working from home is to have regular networking and accountability sessions with your business team or colleagues. If you can’t meet in person a video call is the next best option, as you can still see another person! Don’t think you have the time to network? Here are some time management tips to help free up your time: https://takovs.com/5-time-management-tips-to-help-set-up-your-day/
Stay in touch with friends outside of work hours
It’s crucial that you switch off from work, once your day is over, so ensure you’re staying in touch with your friends. Plan to have regular catch-up sessions, meet up for drinks and a meal or simply have a film and pizza evening together. It helps alleviate the stresses of work whilst helping you build those friendships.
Consider coworking with a business buddy
Coworking sessions are another way to tackle loneliness while working from home. Arrange to go on a Zoom call with a business buddy, turn off the mic and get working for an allocated period of time. You can share what you’re working on, prior to getting started, to help build in some accountability – and then catch up at the end of the session, to share how you got on.
Have regular computer and phone-free breaks
It’s not good for your physical or mental health, to keep staring at a screen. Give yourself regular breaks throughout the day, so you can walk away from the computer and phone. Take the time to stretch, have a brisk walk, have a drink and generally get up and move around to give your body and mind a break.
Look after yourself
And whilst we’re on the subject of your health, remember to plan in regular self-care too. Exercise, reading and meditating will all help tackle loneliness. Building yourself a regular self-care routine will also help keep you from diving into negative habits – such as boredom eating and procrastinating too!
If you want to tackle loneliness, leave your house!
Finally, make sure you’re regularly leaving your house. It’s so easy to turn into a hermit when you work from home, as you’re working and relaxing in the same building. So get outside, go for a walk, have your lunch outside and stay in touch with others, to help tackle any feelings of loneliness.
Working from home can be quite isolating and lonely if you’re not careful. But, if you follow the above tips you’ll have a clear plan to help tackle loneliness and stop it taking hold, so you can enjoy more of the benefits that can be gained from working at home – and less of the negative aspects of it.
