Lonely Days: How to Deal with Isolation?

Those who work in an office or other social setting can converse with co-workers throughout the day, schedule lunch dates, and enjoy normal day-to-day interactions. If you're outgoing and enjoy the company of others, you likely need to be around people on a daily basis. Unfortunately, a sociable personality can create a dilemma for anyone who wants to telecommute or work from home.

I know two work at home professionals who eventually returned to the workplace. It had nothing to do with lack of discipline or inability to thrive at home. To be more precise, these persons considered social interaction a necessity, and working at home didn't live up to their expectations.

I'll be the first to admit, it can get lonely throughout the day. Still, it beats sitting at a desk for 40 hours each week.

The key to overcoming work at home isolation is to find an outlet.

• Social Network: If you work online, you likely take breaks throughout the day to read the latest headlines, your favorite blogs, celebrity gossip, and so forth. Make blog surfing a regular routine. You can get to know other work at home professionals by commenting on blogs and news articles. Read the discussions and share your opinions. Before you know it, you'll become part of a growing online community.

• Buddy System: If you're not into social networking, consider getting a buddy or two. This could be another telecommute professional or an employer with access to e-mail or instant messaging. Send each other messages throughout the day. You can share random thoughts or release your frustration.

• Leave the House: Working at home doesn't mean you're confined to one location. Many public places offer free wireless Internet. Go to your favorite coffee shop or work from the library. Better yet, meet a friend for lunch or go for a walk. Do you have a back patio? Set-up a temporary office outdoors. If you don't need Internet access, consider working at the park for a few hours.

Technorati Tags: work at home, telecommute, freelance, social isolation, loneliness

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