Conquer loneliness!

Working from home, or #WFH to those utilizing hashtags, has presented several unforeseen opportunities and challenges for all of us. While I, personally, have learned to love this new telework situation, there have still been moments of debilitating loneliness in which I have found myself. Turns out, I am not alone.

Last year, online brand development agency Buffer conducted a study of 2,500 remote workers, and found that loneliness was the second-most reported challenge, one experienced by 19% of respondents. Loneliness can make people feel less motivated and less productive. 

How can we combat this? Be creative in your social connection! Due to this current pandemic, it is not clear how long people will be at home; however, think outside the box on ways to connect to your office mates and colleagues. Try a virtual pizza party, or even a video happy hour (outside of your designated working hours, of course). Trying social gatherings virtually will feel weird at first, but remember, we're all in this together so it feels weird to all of us. Another fun idea I found was to play a daily game with colleagues. Have a short meeting/update each morning (or at the end of each workday), and agree on a themed treasure hunt. Whoever brings the most embarrassing childhood photo or draws the silliest self-portrait wins!

(Photo credit: Meg Tweed via BBC News)

These stressful times, including the barrage of negative and scary headlines, homeschooling children, worrying about sick and/or elderly loved ones, and panic buying toilet paper can culminate in putting work emails and chats on the back burner. Remember, though, that the more effort and creativity you put into communicating with your colleagues, the more you prevent feelings of isolation which can lead to depression. Comment below to let us know how you are staying connected while working from home!