🎒 Microlesson

🪞 Reflect

As a remote worker, is it difficult to feel like you're a part of a team? Do you ever feel lonely?

💡 Concept

Remote workers often feel lonelier than their in-office counterparts due to the lack of spontaneous, face-to-face interactions that naturally occur in a shared physical workspace. The absence of casual conversations and social interactions can create a sense of isolation, making it harder to build personal connections and feel integrated within a team.

Although loneliness can be heightened when working remotely, remember that work is not your only opportunity to develop connections. Seek out opportunities to connect outside of work, as engaging with others in person can provide a valuable break from the virtual world and enrich your social life. 

To combat feelings of loneliness as a remote worker, try these tips: 

⌚️ Schedule regular check-ins.

Arrange regular one-on-one or team check-ins to stay connected with colleagues—those you work with regularly as well as others you’d like to touch base with. Use video calls to enhance personal interaction and maintain engagement. In your work-related discussions, allow a little time for casual conversation to build rapport and strengthen relationships. 

ℹ️ Foster social interactions.

Create opportunities for informal interactions by setting up virtual coffee breaks or chat rooms dedicated to non-work topics. Encourage team members to share personal updates, hobbies, or participate in virtual team-building activities. Make sure to participate actively in these interactions to build a sense of community and connection.

🌍 Engage in local activities.
Look for local meetups, networking events, or hobby groups related to your interests. Participating in local activities can help you build a social network outside of work and combat feelings of isolation. Consider joining clubs, attending workshops, or volunteering in your community to meet new people and establish in-person connections.

📹 Balance work and social time.

If work tasks consume all your time, it can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Ensure that your schedule includes dedicated time for productive tasks and social interactions. Use calendar tools to block out time for social activities, just as you would for important meetings or deadlines.

📞 Call a friend or family member.

Make a habit of reaching out to friends and family for regular catch-ups. Schedule phone or video calls with them to maintain your personal connections and share your experiences. These conversations can offer emotional support, alleviate loneliness, and provide a refreshing break from work. Regularly calling loved ones helps reinforce your social network and can make you feel more grounded and connected.

🎬 Take Action

Try one of these tiny actions to combat feelings of loneliness when working remotely: 

• Schedule a casual check-in with a current or former colleague. 

• Set up and actively participate in virtual social interactions to foster a sense of community.

• Sign up for a social activity or group in your area. 

• Block off time on your calendar for social activities. 

• Call a friend or family member.

🧠 Keep Learning

Learn more about how to maintain a healthy work-life balance in the Workplaceless Remote Work Certification program.

✅ Check In

🎁Learn with your team!

Refer our weekly microlessons to your team members to learn as a group! Just follow the instructions in the section below to get started.