Who would’ve imagined a few years ago that working remotely would be the new norm for so many people? In fact, a Gallup poll shows 72 percent of white-collar workers are continuing to work from home as COVID-19 cases plummet around the U.S.
Working remotely definitely has its benefits! Yoga pants, t-shirts, and shorts are the new dress code. Breaktimes and lunches can be taken pretty much whenever one chooses to do so. Despite the perks of the new casual work environment, many have discovered that it can become quite lonely as well.
If you’re now working remotely, I encourage you to make the most of it by staying in touch with others through varied social outlets. Remain connected with others through:
Friendships
Before I stopped my previous on-site job, I was invited to be part of a book study group that meets every other Friday morning at a friend’s home. We normally study one chapter of a chosen book to discuss at each meeting. I look forward to talking about the books together as well as getting to know the similarities and differences between each person in the group.
But of course, you don’t need a book study to stay in touch with good friends. Simply set up a regular time to meet somewhere over coffee or a snack—even if it’s in one of your homes. The point is staying connected with friends who lift your spirit through encouragement, support, and laughter.
Church
Involvement in a local church has been part of my upbringing since I was a baby and it continues to be now that I have my own family. Faith-based organizations are important to one’s spiritual growth and personal encouragement from other Christians. We read this in Hebrews 10:25 where it says, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another.” By staying connected in church, my relationship with the Lord Jesus is strengthened, and my roles at home and in the community with others are more grounded.
Fitness
I listed this category because I’ve found that staying healthy and fit helps my overall attitude about life in general. And staying more optimistic helps me remain connected to life with other people. Otherwise, it’s easy to hide in a shell away from those who can actually bring me so much joy!
Work opportunities
Before I started contract work full-time from my home, I wasn’t aware of how many opportunities there are in the freelancing world. So many skill sets are needed from people with the ability to work from home. I now have friendships with other freelancers that I didn’t have before. God continues to bring about interesting ways for me to stay connected to others even while I’m working [alone] from home.
Volunteering
Shortly after I began my switch to home-based work, I decided to volunteer in a popular summer children’s event at our church, known as VBS. Although brand new to this particular church, friendships formed that have continued several years later. And over these twelve months, one person I initially met has been a continual means of encouragement to me at exactly the right times! Volunteer activities can be especially fun when done with others of the same mindset.
Working from home doesn’t mean you have to become a loner. Making the effort to stay connected with others can make your career at home a positive, well-rounded experience.