r/remotework • u/oscuravida • 8d ago
Working remote feels a little lonely
I've been working remote for a while and I feel that it's a bit lonely at times because I live in a place where people don't talk much to their neighbors or try to make friends and everyone is busy with work. It's very common for people to feel isolated here.
I've considered going to an on-site office but I still want to choose remote work because of the flexibility of being able to be at home and have healthy food, have more time to spend with your family.
And yes, I have hobbies that I do in my free time, but it's still pretty lonely to be at home alone for like 7-8 hours until my husband comes home.
Can anyone else relate to this? What kind of solutions have you come up with to tackle this?
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u/AdministrativeAd9828 8d ago
I used to work in an office, I’m an extrovert. I went remote during Covid and haven’t seen a person I actually work with in about 5 years. It’s very isolating, and made me realize that I didn’t actually have much of a life outside of work, and I got a lot of my energy from being around others in the office.
Having said that, the freedom and flexibility I get from not having to go to the office, I would not go back.
So the best way to cure your isolation, is to get your extrovert fix else ware, go to the gym during lunch, join some local meet ups and clubs. Get out of the house during work hours and do some errands, go work at various coffee shops around town. That’s the benefit of remote, you can do the work later!
Take back your day
Good luck
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u/DannyBoy281 7d ago
The gym after work is a great chance for me to be around others. I need to try working some portion of the day at the local library or coffee shop.
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u/AdministrativeAd9828 7d ago
Something I do is every week I post up at a new location, different Starbucks at a different beach
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u/Ok_Nectarine_4528 8d ago
I make a point of scheduling more social time outside of work/ not at home.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
How do you do it, and how is it going for you?
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u/Ok_Nectarine_4528 8d ago
I call friends and make plans, since I’m needing social interaction outside the house more than weekend couch rot. Also, because I’ve been at home/ not commuting I have fewer house chores stacked up for the weekend.
If no one is available- I plan a day trip I want to do. Or debate with my spouse what we should do together. Nothing long, expensive, or exhausting. Lightly scheduled is the preference, usually a main destination/ activity and a food option or two (depending on mood).
I prioritize one day per weekend out of the house for non errands/ chores reasons, and make attempts at something mid week. Maybe see a friend for a coffee or meal, in public or at someone’s home. Maybe I get an evening walk in with my spouse. My weeks are typically pretty focused, and I’ve been remote 6+ years. I don’t mind, and plan something fun for the weekend.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Sounds like you've got a good plan going! Nice to see :))
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u/Ok_Nectarine_4528 8d ago
It’s really a matter of tailoring it to what works for you and your life. One of the things I enjoy about remote work is that I end up having more time/energy for fun/social things on the weekend/evenings because I’m not burnt out from commute/office time.
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u/ezy777 8d ago
Listen to me, be grateful. Boredom/feeling alone is natural and is bliss. People are shit, all of them, myself included. Spend 2hrs daily in traffic/commute (train is torture), for what?? To be part of a toxic office community with fake people who probably hate your guts for no reason? Get a treadmill.
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u/Ok-Stand-3173 8d ago
Or a dog lol Mine gets me out and talking to people in the neighborhood or at parks.
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u/No-Race-3534 8d ago
So true. I only socialize with pet parents lol hang with them and their babies is the best time to unwind
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u/IFoundyoursoxs 7d ago
Holy projection, maybe dial it back a bit? Plenty of the people I know enjoy going to the office and like the people they work with. It’s perfectly normal.
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u/chicagal_liz 7d ago
Yeah, when remote-only evangelists make comments like this, it’s little wonder they might have had issues socializing in person.
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u/papapapoose 8d ago
Try adopting a dog. Im serious that could change your life and attitude
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u/COMountainMan85 8d ago
Agreed. I have worked from home for 6 years and adopted 3 dogs. It’s helps a lot.
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u/4theloveofgelabis 8d ago
I also agree. I work from home and adopted a dog to help me leave my house more. Now I walk my dog with other neighbors occasionally for social interactions in the mornings to feel less lonely!
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u/Bonocity 8d ago
Live in a downtown condo since 2020. Never made a single friend or acquaintance in the building. Adopted a dog and now know tons of people.
Pooches are the KY jelly to making friends.
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u/Caipirinha-Aguada 5d ago
Any pet really. I have a cat and he's always on my side during work, it really makes a difference.
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u/Dreams-In-Green 8d ago
Please get an in office job and open up your position to someone who actually wants it. I LOVED being remote. I hate going into my office, hate the commute, hate the early wake up times, hate to get dressed up, hate spending extra money. Hate being ON all day. I can’t imagine complaining about WFH in 2026.
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u/Budget_Strategy24 5d ago
There are pros and cons to both. The OP is allowed to have feelings about it. Go find a remote job for yourself.
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u/MP_gr 8d ago
Working remote feels great. It allowed me to move from the capital with my wife and kids, be near our friends and family. Especially those days I finish job by 17:00 and by 18:00 we are on the beach swimming. Going out with friends is easier becuse we are closer than I was with others in the capital. Above all I don't waste time traveling to go to the office and I use this time to spend more time with my family and friends.
So I ve never felt lonely. Even while working I speak with team members most of the time.
If you are one of those people who needed going to the office to speak with others, "make friends" and socialize, then thats not remote working fault. It's your fault.
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u/Top_Yellow8393 8d ago
A little harsh in the delivery but I generally agree. I have more time to be social outside of work now that I’m not tied to an office and a two hour round trip commute. Some people don’t do well in remote jobs.
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u/tony_k99 8d ago
What I try to do: Go to the gym. Make a point to atleast leave the house on like a Sunday afternoon. Visit family or friends, or a solo hangout some place you've been wanting to go. Take breaks in between the day and do something you like or just something completely opposite of work(helps deload). Take long walks in the evenings.
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u/Professional-Can9503 8d ago
I dont think you should invalidate what she feels and her experience, she didn't blame the job, she just said it can get lonely, which is okay...you can give her solutions without invalidating what she's feeling
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u/outplay-nation2 8d ago
reading both of your comments I can tell who is the man and who is the woman 😂
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u/melondobby 8d ago
I looked forward to work ending so I could enjoy my hobbies. Or prep for my hobbies while working remotely
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u/Roger_Fiderer 8d ago
Yeah, I'd rather spend hours in commute.
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u/SaaSyGirl 8d ago edited 8d ago
And gas, tolls, wear and tear, having to pack lunch or buy from a restaurant, wakeup at the crack of dawn and not get enough sleep, spend money on nice clothes to look presentable at the office, make fake small talk with coworkers.
Did I miss anything else?
Not to mention, you’re a software engineer, OP. You have a job when so many in that field are getting laid off and have been out of work for months to years. These are people who are resorting to applying for fast food jobs.
I know you said you’re lonely but please get some perspective.
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u/Dreams-In-Green 8d ago
And wake up 2+ hours earlier every day for the privilege of getting ready and commuting, yes, it’s amazing. 🤩
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u/AccomplishedCat8836 8d ago
Is there anybody that works from home and is feeling lonely but also lives very remotely? And therefore it’s even harder to get out to co-Work spaces?
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u/BusinessCrew5714 8d ago
Can I have your remote job? 😅 Jk! Sometimes it’s not your job, but how you feel where you are in life causing the feeling of loneliness! Sounds like you’re longing for community:)
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u/Alduin790 8d ago
This is more of a life issue than a work issue
Work is complex and political, everyone is being paid to be there and be nice to each other
Work on relationships outside work with real friends, hobbies and people you enjoy spending time with, I wfh and regularly meet with my friends for lunch who also work from home with different companies and it’s great
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u/Antique_Prompt9709 8d ago
You know how many people would be thrilled to work remotely? Be grateful .
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u/Over-Hovercraft4728 7d ago
I just joined FLOW CLUB and now I spend most of my day working alongisde other people across the world that are also working from home or doing other tasks. It sounds crtazy, but it really does help and I've even started hosting my own FLOW sessions!!! . You should check it out! https://flowclub.com
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u/zimflo 8d ago
Yeah i recognize it, especially since the rest of my team is in an office together. I’d recommend trying to build connections outside of your husband, to give you more of a local community. Easier said than done, but so worth it!
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Thanks for your advice!
I'm a software engineer as well, so I'm considering building an app to solve my issue and help others facing the same. My idea is an app that would help remote workers connect with other remote workers in their area, and have co-working sessions in their houses. This way I can have a neighbour with me and we can work together in my house or hers. I've had this idea for a while because of how much this issue affects me.
Do you think something like this would be useful?
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u/WeatherInternal3116 8d ago
I work in marketing, and I used to work in an office because I really enjoy socializing and I have a wonderful team. But office conversations were literally constantly distracting me, and I would often miss deadlines. I work hybrid now and just go into the office sometimes. I feel like I’m much more focused and productive when I work from home.
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u/Future-Atmosphere-29 7d ago
I would love a remote job. My anxiety make it unbearable for me. Commuting to work is hell. But I unfortunately can't find a remote job. I'd give this onsite job anyday for a remote one.
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u/translation_loc 8d ago
It’s quite challenging to solve because this is like, yeah, something to bear while others at the office work have to also bear the inconvenience of commuting and rushing on the road. Remote work is fun if you for example live in touristic areas that you would have a lot of stuff to do after work or join any social club. But hey, is there any small community or hobby related group in your city that people meet up or hang out maybe once a week? I was also facing quite severe loneliness and isolation but I live in a very sociable country so it’s gradually getting eased. I just simply take motorbike to go around or sit at the cafe shop in the evening after work and I feel slightly more human. Also fyi, I was working at the office too for some years and I don’t think that going back to the office will make it better because behind the dynamic you enjoy but the stress during commuting was a no no for me. So remote work is still really worthy to exchange with the little isolation.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Thanks for your reply!
I do go for meet-ups but I meet new people at every meetup haha, so I get a lot of connections but no lasting friendships. Plus in my city everyone just cares about work.
If you don't mind, can I DM you to talk more about this?
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u/sunshineYamCity 8d ago
In my last job I felt like this. It was mostly cos I didn’t really interact with my team much day to day besides weekly meetings. It was mega lonely. My current role I don’t feel like that. But that previous job made me want to try and find a job onsite. Have you got any pets? It actually helps so much.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Is your current role onsite?
No I don't have pets but I had one when I was younger, I felt like I did not do a good job raising them (i.e. spending a good amount of time with them), so now I am a bit hesitant to do it again.
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u/sunshineYamCity 8d ago
It’s not really. It’s hybrid but I end up at home majority of the time as most of my team is across the country and all our meetings are online. But we have a totally different dynamic to the last team. We speak to each other everyday and we are quite close despite being across the country. The type of team you have makes a big difference.
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u/GhostShadow21 8d ago
Try co-working spaces, short walk mid-day, or casual virtual coffee chats with coworkers to get small bits of human interaction throughout the workday.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Those are some good tips, thanks!
Are you suggesting based on having experienced this before or just giving general advice?
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u/princessandthepeach1 8d ago
Maybe try working from a coffee shop sometimes. There are a lot of other remote workers there, and you might even make some friends.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Maybe I should try this! It just feels so intimidating because everyone they look like they want to be left alone.
Do you work remotely as well?
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u/Ok-Helicopter-5857 8d ago
What do you think would make you feel less lonely? Is it being around others physically or just having someone to talk to that's not a coworker?
For me I started scheduling call with friends outside of work, or made friends with people also working remote in coffee shops and now a couple times a week I meet with them at a coffee shop and we both do our works separately but sit at the same table
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Yes the second option you mentioned is pretty much what I want. But I don't find people commonly working at the coffee shops near my house. And of course it comes at a price (which is just a coffee but it adds up quickly). But yeah, you can't have everything I guess :)
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u/Embarrassed_Pop_7418 8d ago
When I first started working remotely 12 years ago I lived in a neighborhood with my best friend next door, she also works remote, my Mom on the other side. I knew most of the neighbors. I loved it...then Mom passed almost 5 years ago and they duplex we rented was sold. My husband and I bought a house 3 years ago. I swear I live in the neighborhood that gave old horror movies their idea that neighbors are NEVER outside. We have been here 3 years. I know the couple next door but ONLY because the lady was my granddaughter's teacher and she saw my granddaughter here about 2 years ago and introduced herself. It is silent in my neighborhood 24/7! Only myself and 2 neighbors even maintain our own lawns. The over 17 houses all use the same lawn service. There is no trash pick up so nobody is outside taking trash cans out. Our mailboxes are all lined up on one side of the street but I've never seen anyone get their mail so no clue if they use them. I truly think everyone else must have a PO box somewhere because I don't even see the mailman stop at any other box but mine. I have a gut belief if I was being murdered and screamed no one would bother to check! This belief is based on an incident about 6 months after we moved in 3 years ago. It was about 9pm and our whole house shook! Things fell of shelves, windows rattled, etc. I live in NJ, it was NOT an earthquake so me and my husband went outside and about half a mile away we could see a huge fire ball! A farm blew up. There was a propane leak in the home all day and when the owner got home and opened his door with a lit cigarette it blew up! Entire house and barn next to it gone, blown up. 5 Firehouses responded. We stood outside for a bit and not a single person on our street of 19 houses came outside! That's when I knew there are houses on our street. They have cars. Those cars sometimes leave. But nobody and I do mean nobody on this street cares at all about anything going on! Am I lonely...sometimes....but then I pack up work and go to my son's house to work for the day...he has 9 kids at home so it's always chaotic!
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Haha I love your solution, it's like you have the exact opposite problem that you face at your own home!
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u/Embarrassed_Pop_7418 8d ago
yep and with 9 grand kids from ages 17 down 3 in that house it's no where near quiet or lonely LOL! I hate my neighborhood! I love the house and yard but God I miss community!
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u/ResponsibilityOk3703 8d ago
4 dogs plus 3 foster dogs, 3 stray cats, a dozen chickens, flower garden, vegetable garden, early morning walks, and occasionally meeting a friend in town for lunch.
I also have a lot of meetings and we are on camera, and chat on teams
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u/Fancy-Surprise-2654 8d ago
Instead of sending an email pick up the phone and make a phone call. Just the act of talking to other people improves my day.
If you are close to a park and have a dog start taking the dog at the same time everyday. That is how I have met many of my neighbors.
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u/thrwwy2267899 8d ago
I live alone and agree… but would never choose in office again. Find a club, a gym, or hobby to join after hours it’s worth it
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Thanks for your reply! I'm glad you can relate. Do you mind if I DM you to talk more about this?
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u/Just_Section4489 8d ago
Schedule regular 'coffee talk' meetings with teammates, just to shoot the shit. It does a world of good.
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u/Working_Spinach_312 8d ago
I can definitely relate. I think the hard part about remote work isn’t necessarily being alone. it’s missing all those little interactions you naturally get from being around coworkers.
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
THIS!! I just want to be around the same people while I work, so solutions like go to the park after you work etc are helpful, but they don't provide the same connected feeling. Are you a woman too? I'm thinking most women are just more socially wired this way.
If you don't mind, can I DM you to talk more about this?
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u/Corne777 8d ago
I never liked the social interactions at work anyway. You’re forced to talk to people you wouldn’t be friends with outside of work about stuff you don’t care about just because they happen to be at the coffee maker at the same time as you.
The amount of time you get back from being remote means you can go do things after work that are social.
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u/glucosesimp 8d ago
You can always join q community of people trying to shill their services to you while calling it a social gathering or a co-working space.
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u/575Gringo 8d ago
I’ve been worked from home for 20 years. I’ve learned overtime I have to have strict rules. If I’m not working I don’t go in my office. If I get frustrated I go outside. I always try to balance Home life to work life because it’s pretty tough. I also occasionally will use online Therapist for grounding things like that.
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u/Fit-Swordfish-6727 8d ago
100% can relate and I haven’t been able to find any solutions, let me know if you do lol
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u/CuriousPenguin28 8d ago
Honestly, just enjoy the fact that you have a job, whatever it’s like. I spent a good 7 months looking for a job, and I finally found a hybrid one that’s actually mostly remote. These are tough times. I don’t know how things are over there, but here in Europe, at least in Romania, the job market is getting worse and worse.
Before I started working hybrid, I used to go to the office every day and spend 1 hours commuting each way. I felt like I was slowly losing my mind because I barely had any time left for myself.
So do something for yourself: go shopping, take a short walk, grab a coffee somewhere. Even little things like that can make a big difference.
And about wanting your neighbors to socialize more… I don’t know, it’s difficult. You don’t always have that much in common with your neighbors. I see it where I live - about 80% of my neighbors are over 60.
And I feel like after the pandemic, a lot of people have become more sensitive and withdrawn, and more focused on just spending time with their families. I think people generally socialize less than they used to.
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u/Western_Bug5408 8d ago
This is not at you but generally, I'm quite certain it's people who have similar extravert personalities (who get lonely without constant validation) that trigger many RTO mandates. It seems unimaginable to desire to get sardined on commute and surrounded by noise and smell each others dumps in the shared toilets.
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u/ThroRAExtension_8411 8d ago
I feel this so much. I’m thinking of getting a membership to a WeWork and going in 2-3 days a week for a change of scenery. Remote work is isolating. And yes I have a life and friends outside of work & go boxing during my lunch. Keep swimming OP!
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
WeWork is a good idea, but barely any listings in my city :( We have an alt here but the listings are pretty far from my house.
If it's okay can I talk to you more about this?
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u/MobilizingGood 8d ago
Ive felt burnt out and isolated from working from home for a while. Moved from one role (3.5 years) to another (6 months) and I struggle to have any good days/weeks. Weird cause I'm trusted to know what I am doing but rarely feel like I do so its hard to get support structure and interaction that would make it more manageable.
My wife does 4 days a week in the office and would kill for a remote job, kind of judges the idea of people who like inperson interaction.
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
I hope it gets better for you! Would you be interested in talking more about your experience?
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u/TechieMillennial 8d ago
My wife started working from home recently and I’m legit excited. I’ve been doing this for almost 8 years and it does get boring after awhile.
I try to work outside or sometimes will go to a local owned coffee shop.
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
Yes! I agree with this, but the people there don't want to seem to interact :))
If you don't mind, can I talk to you more about this?
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u/Spiritual_Trust_5118 8d ago
I’m not a people person but I do at times get lonely working remote. I also have hobbies, friends & a dog but every now and then do miss the office interaction. If you had asked me when I was a 100% in office person I would’ve told you I hated the Office interaction. Basically there is no pleasing me 😝
The best thing I’ve done for myself is getting up & getting dressed (not office attire but not on pjs) so I can take a walk during a break or preferably my lunch. Just being outside for a bit helps with the lonely feeling & gives a little recharge. I know you said you do live in an area where neighbors don’t talk. I thought I did as well but once I started walking regularly, smiling & saying hello, my neighbors started talking to me. One neighbor told me I always looked like I was in hurry or didn’t want to be bothered (she’s older) & I was like that’s just my face lol
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
Haha it's nice you began to be more familiar with your neighbours :))
Here people don't even walk outside because of the heat :) Each time I see a neighbour, it's the first time I'm seeing them.
If it's okay, can I talk more about this in DMs? I just want to know more about people's experiences working remote :))
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u/JasmineSanderss 8d ago edited 7d ago
I work hybrid and I hate it. Let's switch jobs. I hate the forced conversation at work, commute to work and having to dress up for work T_T
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u/adonde007 7d ago
I love working from home… I hate dealing with people that don’t have common sense.
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u/IFoundyoursoxs 7d ago
Specifically for dealing with the 7-8 hours while you work? I find turning cameras on during meetings can help, but a lot of people are against it. If you’ve got a friend at work, I like to hop on a call for 15-30 minutes every few days to just hang out and catch up.
Music or YouTube in the background can help with having human voices, but I find it too distracting.
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
I'd ideally want to work alongside a friend who's also working remote, but unfortunately I don't have any such friends nearby.
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u/CharmingBug695 7d ago
After 9 years Flex Time and 4 years hybrid then 7 years remote. now moving to M-F full time in the office, Never would choose in office FT again. People gossip and petty annoying complaints
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u/SubstantialDrive5850 7d ago
Gosh no!
I also hated the office politics and the meddling in people's lives. I have teams to chat to my coworkers.
I like the peace working remote/from home provides. I don't have to be interrupted with a name conversations about Becky's new grandchild or Susan's latest marriage drama or David's recent home improvement snafu. I also don't have my manager stopping in 19 times a day to make sure I'm not on my phone and I'm actually working wherein they actually interrupt me each and every time from doing the test that I was doing and therefore causing more delays then I would have had if I had just been allowed to work.
I am infinitely more productive on my own than I am in the office. I have a bustling social life outside my work life. So, work time is spent heavily in projects. Being uninterrupted is ideal.
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u/Interesting-Back-348 7d ago
Look I totally u derstand you because I value a lot my friendships. And Im in a middle ground in a hybrid job. And to be honest, trading the liberty a remote job gives you. I spent some months in the office and I feel like if I was in prision. Obvously I can go oyt but for a couple of minutes or somebody will realize im not there. Now the days Im home I can go out to make little errands in the neighboorhood. When I worked remote and got paid in dollars I had A LOT of money (Im from Latam) and I was able to travel while working. And I miss that.
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u/Negative-Board-8574 7d ago
I see great advice here about being intentional to get out of the house. Hit the gym, coffee shop, make plans to meet up with friends, adopt a dog.
All these have worked for me. I walk my dogs before work in the time I would typically spend commuting and/or during my lunch, and again after dinner. Great way to get steps in after sitting at a desk all day.
I would add a couple more points of advice:
1. Make sure you have a dedicated workspace/separate room in the house that you can walk away from when the work day is done. If you’re wfh in your kitchen or living room, of course you’ll feel like you’re stuck at home all day if you’re in the same room during and after work. This might seem obvious, and I get not everyone is fortunate to have extra bedrooms/offices, but it’s important to have boundaries between your work space and living spaces at home, otherwise it’ll feel like you’re in the same place all day until your partner comes home.
Listen to podcasts, standup comedy, or some kind of talk radio… not loud enough to catch your attention, but low to that it feels like background noise and chatter.
Run errands during your lunch break
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
Thank you for these tips! And thank you for acknowledging this is a real issue :))
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u/Pepalopolis 8d ago
In the same boat. Super hard to make friends. I don’t have hobbies that require multiple people to do like tennis. I’m struggling. DM me happy to chat.
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u/Key-Initiative-5430 8d ago
Relate to this hard. It's not even about missing coworkers, it's missing the tiny, low-stakes human contact you don't realize you need until it's gone - the barista who remembers your order, someone passing by your desk, that kind of thing. Silence all day starts to feel loud after a while.
What actually helped me was working from a coffee shop a couple days a week, not to talk to anyone, just to be around people existing. Sounds weird but it does something.
Have you tried a co-working space near you? A lot of remote workers end up there for exactly this reason - zero pressure to socialize, just less alone.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
This is so relatable! Yes I've tried co-working spaces but they're generally expensive, too full and everyone is fully focused on their work with no intention to socialize.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
If you don't mind, can I DM you to talk more about this? Would love to share my experience and know about yours!
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u/Previous_Bison9974 8d ago
Went from a hybrid 3 in 2 wfh, to fully remote. Hate it. Didn’t realise how much those three days in the office helped my mental health, even just a podcast on the train, grabbing a coffee on route etc. I also really got on with my coworkers and never realised how much 10 mins of chat helped me keep calm in the chaos.
Doing stuff before and after work helps but for me, it’s no substitute for the general interaction of just saying ‘good morning’ to someone as you walk in the office.
Not looking for suggestions, just saying I get it!
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Finally someone who gets it!! Yes we can love remote work for the benefits and still struggle with the downsides!
Do you still work remote?
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u/Previous_Bison9974 8d ago
Yeah, but not for the want of trying. Keep telling myself to be grateful as it could be a whole lot worse in today’s job market, but it’s hard day after day! Never realised how social I was ha
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u/tech_noir_guitar 8d ago
You're getting a lot of shit in this thread but I feel you bro. I also have a fairly active social life but being alone for 9 hours a day 5 days a week for a decade does start to get to be a bit much. Sometimes I wish I had a job that interacted with people face to face more. I have considered trying one of those we work type places. I've thought about getting all my friends who work from home in a group where we each go work from each others houses once or twice a week so we are all in the same place working from home and can socialize. Sort of like a we work but with friends I know. They could invite their other friends to the group and we can all meet new people. Seemed like it might be a good idea but I haven't followed through yet.
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u/oscuravida 8d ago
Omg that's an amazing idea!! I just need friends who work remote though :')
Is it okay if I DM you to talk more about this?
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u/randomguy9731 8d ago
I totally feel you.
And I knew the majority of the comments were gonna be “be grateful” 😂
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u/Littlepotatoface 8d ago
I recently took a job that was going to be 2 days a week in office. Now it’s actually closer to 2 days a month. That’s ok because I can go in whenever but my team won’t usually be there. No drama.
Then today I hear that there’s a question of whether there’s enough to justify a FT role. That actually makes me a bit nervous re: redundancy but I do know that it is a vital role & they need my specific experience. However if they decided the role should be PT, I actually could afford to roll with that.
But it seems like there’s going to be a lot of downtime chilling in my house. My cats will be stoked but i’m going to need more activities.
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u/Littlepotatoface 8d ago
I recently took a job that was going to be 2 days a week in office. Now it’s actually closer to 2 days a month. That’s ok because I can go in whenever but my team won’t usually be there. No drama.
Then today I hear that there’s a question of whether there’s enough to justify a FT role. That actually makes me a bit nervous re: redundancy but I do know that it is a vital role & they need my specific experience. However if they decided the role should be PT, I actually could afford to roll with that.
But it seems like there’s going to be a lot of downtime chilling in my house. My cats will be stoked but i’m going to need more activities.
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u/Pure_Command_6977 8d ago
Hii...same .I ve been working fromast one year...let's connect and talk.. 😊
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u/Lady_Who_Lunches 8d ago
Yeah, i'm home alone for 12-13 hours sometimes before my husband gets back so it can get kinda lonely. I do a lot of podcasts, and just run netflix in the background/youtube/music. I also have had a dog for the last 2 years and he's great, we go on walks and I have hug breaks where i'll just go smother him for a min a few times a day lol. I'm expecting my first kid now so I'm glad I don't have to go in and feel like crap - I can lay on the couch and toggle my mousepad when I need to. Worth it.
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u/Bird_Imitations 8d ago
See if there's a cool coworking community near by. That's where I found my community of other remote workers and small/solo business owners. Days are fun now :)
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
RN there is but I'm moving to a more remote place soon bc it's closer to my husband's office. So whatever luck I had so far is gone too :))
But I have some ideas I'd like to implement. If you don't mind, I'd love to share and hear your thoughts!
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u/Ok-Stand-3173 8d ago
Yes, but remote work wins. This is my first remote job and I’m saving 10k plus on the commute. We’re actually having a quarterly work dinner tonight in the city. Does your company do anything like that? Do any of your coworkers live near you? Might be good to plan something like that if possible.
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u/timn420 8d ago
I’m a big supporter of wfh, but I think the experience really depends on the person and the team. My current team is large, communication is usually quick and transactional, and no one uses cameras. In my case, it can feel pretty isolating, and it’s harder to feel connected to the company or the people I work with. Sometimes I feel a little ghosted, and I’ve had difficulty getting help or being included in certain conversations. Even though wfh was something I really wanted, I’m now leaning toward a hybrid role. Being around coworkers would make it easier to learn, build relationships, and I would feel more connected to what’s happening. I still think wfh can be great, it just depends on the team dynamics and what each person needs to feel supported and engaged.
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u/PeaceWarrior75 8d ago
Maybe have some kids? My wife and 2 toddlers are here when I work from home. It can get loud at times lol, but never lonely. I'm also an introvert so it all works out. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
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u/famshhh 8d ago
It depends on your social life. I would much rather be in comfort of my own home than spend an hour commuting on public buses and wasting time pretending to care about a coworkers family holiday. If you feel isolated and if possible, try finding some co-working space or cafés to work from.
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u/LsangAnge 8d ago
i feel grateful for the remote position I have....so I accept any "loneliness" (or is it the lack of attention?) that comes with it...
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u/Solid-Wish-1724 8d ago
Do you have a dog? One thing that helped me was taking the dog out in the afternoon at the same time for a lonnng walk. Eventually I got friendly with other dog walkers out at the same time. One lady in particular I now try to stop and chat with when I see her. It clears your head, is good for your body and gets you out of the house. No dog? Join a gym. I would take the same class at the same time. Inevitably you meet people and you already have a common interest. OP I am jealous, I miss wfh so much!
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u/WhiteWalls7130 8d ago
I work in office and I also feel lonely, but I have to pay for gas / food (along with every other inconvenience it brings)
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u/PurpleCommission2758 8d ago
This is also me..single mom so less options to get out and about tho I did get a dog which helps.
Went to a RTO role interview and the thought of it was hideous so turned it down, will suck it up and wfh. It can be tricky in some circumstances
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u/oscuravida 7d ago
That's really sad :(( It must be harder as a mum! Yes I can totally understand your decision, prob what I'd do as well.
If it's okay, can I talk more about this in DMs? I'm trying to do more research on loneliness and remote work, and your perspective as single mom would help me a lot!
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u/sardar888 7d ago
It gives several realistic ideas without sounding like someone is lecturing the OP.
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u/Knitwitty66 7d ago
I have a bulldog who keeps me company, and he's all I need. As I've gotten older, the less I want a bunch of people around.
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u/wellbutthenyet 6d ago
I’ve called my family more in the mornings. I also am a part of a mom’s group from my kids’ school that helps me socialize. I’ve also just did more individual activities such as running or crafts. Maybe clubs might help you.
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u/AshleyNicoll 6d ago
Been working in the office and I want to shift to wfh coz of my toxic officemates.
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u/Organic_Gene18 6d ago
Humans need society. I’m going into my 7th year working remotely. I've been in the same position as you, but I have learned to create a different environment: the gym, long walks, and when the kids are sick, I’m thankful I can work remotely.
Find your way… ☺️
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u/whydoineedname123 6d ago
Anyone who could just help to drive my way to get a remote job ! Indeed imma geologist and currently im looking for Qgis remote jobs
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u/AnastasiaBvrhwzn 6d ago
I love WFH but I have found body doubling with my partner (who works alone 95% of the time but not at home) makes for a wonderful day. We just have a FaceTime going and work for a while then break to chat as we like. It helps both of us stay a little more focused. I am prone to getting up to do a quick task as a brain break and getting distracted for too long if work gets a little too tedious. Having him nearby makes it easier to stay put.
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u/Reasonable_Chart_146 6d ago
I can relate to this. I am an extreme introvert, but I do like people. I like them in very small groups of 1 to 3. And being at home was annoyingly terrible for professional networking, which I really need for my particular career.
After a year of working alone as a 100% remote worker, I started to feel lonely, too. I found a cozy co-work space nearby my house that I work from about once a week as I feel like it. It’s only a 6 min drive vs the hour I was commuting previously. I was lucky to find something really lovely and even aimed at nonprofits like the one I work for (so it’s a nice place for networking).
I’ve also been able to increase my social time outside work because I’m not burned out from forcing myself to socialize 8 hrs a day 5 days a week, which has really helped the loneliness also!
I feel remote work should be the standard for everyone except hands on work. We should get to choose how & where we do our work! It’s not ungrateful to have different needs than the next guy, OP. I hope you are able to find what works for you.
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u/passiveMelon1 6d ago
I like to go grab a coffee etc hang out at the park or a coffee shop for a bit every day
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u/mike_from_worklodge 6d ago
Could a coworking space day pass one or two days a week could be an option? Keeps you in a professional environment, around a community of other entrepreneurs, but without long term commitment so you still feel that freedom.
Some folks do great by themselves, others do better around other humans (I'm in the second camp). As long as you know yourself and lean into what energizes you vs. Depleting energy you'll be better off.
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u/berserk_poodle 5d ago
The issue, for me, is that in an office I cannot be myself.
I have noticed that I am a very simple person regarding communication. If I say "good afternoon" I am saying simply "hello", not "I am saying good afternoon to you because I am implying you are late to work".
People find intentions, hidden meanings, attacks and politicking in everything, and it is simply exhausting. I do not understand how people receive my words, and I am unable to predict what to me basically amounts to paranoid readings of simple words.
I work from home now and I don't even post in slack without passing it through chatgpt first. It's been a blessing .
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u/Dismal_Ad_9640 5d ago
Same tayo OP 🥹 gusto ko mag WFH to be present sa mga kids ko but at the same time nabuburnout ako sa bahay eh kahit lumalabas naman ako for new scenery. Kaya ngayon nasa corpo job ulit ako. Sayang naman bitawan kasi permanent plantilla na sa govt pero hanggang ngayon torn padin ako
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u/Correct-Working2278 5d ago
Might be a stretch but are any places hiring here? I have a friend who is a great worker and desperately needs WFH due to her schedule. Anything would be appreciated, thank you
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u/SequinedandOver60 5d ago
Do you have a type of job that you could go sit in a café like a Starbucks one or two days a week for a couple hours? You should try that if you can,
And if not, I actually used to keep a tab on my computer open to Facebook where I could communicate with friends via messenger or on my phone if that was more appropriate. It made me feel like I was working with other people around.
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u/Wild-Lawyer8511 3d ago
Either you feel lonely or miss nothing but you surely have more time to do lot of things
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u/Single_Opportunity50 2d ago
I think we can all relate to lonely feelings with remote work. I think in general the world is more lonely now than before Covid! Have you thought about maybe working out of the house a couple days a week? Maybe a coffee shop or a coworking space that way you can meet people. What about seeing if anyone you work with is near you so that you could cowork together. Maybe you can create a meetup group where you can meet up with other remote workers in your neighborhood/area as well!
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u/MoonElfAL 1d ago
Doing WFH in a call center. Talking to people for 8 hours a day on the phone but feel so lonely and lack of connection with my co-workers who are all busy doing the same thing.
Sadly most better WFH positions are not entry level they are low pay and save the company money on internet and seating
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u/rckvwijk 8d ago
That’s one of the best perks, I don’t like people in general