I’m sure we can all agree that working from home most definitely has its advantages, like not having to get up extra early to miss the traffic to work, for one!
Whether you have been used to working in an office full of co-workers pre-lockdown and are now working from home, or whether you have always worked from home due to the nature of your job, I’m sure we can all agree that it can become a lonely road.
Luckily, we’ve got some great tips to keep the loneliness at bay while still enjoying the comforts of working from your home office:
- Make plans for after work
While staying focused during office hours to get the work done is important, making plans for things to do after work is a great way to socialize and get your mind off the stress of the day. Whether it is grabbing a drink with a friend after work, or having a movie night with a loved one, making plans after work is key to curb the loneliness.
- Connect with co-workers by forming groups that meet up regularly
You can do this virtually, or in person. Meeting up regularly with co-workers can make you feel more connected to the company, as well as allow colleagues to get to know each other better.
- Make use of a co-working space near you
If you miss working in an office environment, why not make use of a co-working space near you? Workshop 17, located on Kloof Street, is a great example of a place where you can work together with other remote workers.
Check them out here: https://www.workshop17.co.za/cpt-gardens-kloof
- Switch it up – work outside of your home office at least once a week
Further to the above point, why not switch it up by working from different coffee shops or restaurants? The change of scenery will do you good, and most coffee shops now come equipped with free Wifi and the necessary plugs for your laptop and cell phone. Who knows, your next client might be sitting right next to you.
- Reach out to your friends
Be careful not to fall into the trap of isolating yourself from the world just because you don’t get out of the house as often as you used to. Make a point to stay in touch with your friends and family at least a couple of times per week. You are not alone.
- Exercise
Yes, we’re bringing it up again. Getting active will do you a world of good. In short, exercising helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently, which in turn will give your body more energy to tackle your daily chores.
In closing: Joshua Marine once said: “Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”
You can do this!