By Vanika
Tips to Overcome Workplace Isolation
Feeling isolated and socially unconnected in workplaces can be daunting. There are various reasons which may be responsible for this like being a remote worker, being new to a team, not having social connections, or feeling misunderstood or underappreciated by coworkers. Such a distressing work environment can impact mental peace and further contribute to a lack of job satisfaction and productivity. We’re social creatures, yearning for connections and a sense of belonging. During adulthood, workplaces become a sacred space and nobody wishes to spend their time alone and cut off.
Useful Techniques to Overcome Workplace Isolation:
1. Find common ground. Look for common interests, hobbies, and activities that you can share with your colleagues. This way, you can create a common ground for conversations regardless of how much everyone differs in interests and personalities. It can help create a passion outside the workplace and alleviate the sense of isolation present.
2. Foster positivity. Yes, it can be hard adjusting to a hostile and cold workspace but optimism is essential. A positive outlook can help you focus on the good parts of your job and might even help you to enjoy your time there despite the negativity. It will also allow you to approach the conversations with colleagues with a positive outlook and less anxiety.
3. Try making your existing connections strong. Forming deep and meaningful relations is important. You may be acquainted with people around you but there might not be any bond present. Connect over similar interests, hobbies, and activities. By using some conversation starters, such as, “How was your weekend?”, “What type of sports do you enjoy?” or other work related questions which can follow up with some light conversations later.
4. Talk to your friends and family about it. Sharing your problems and seeking support from loved ones during tough times can bring a lot of comfort. Having strong emotional support can help lessen the distress and navigate challenging situations.
5. Take care of yourself. Go on runs, maintain a healthy diet, meditate, follow your hobbies, hang out with your friends and family, and do mindful activities to maintain a balance in life. Life has its ups and downs. What's more important is how you approach the situation.
6. If you work remotely, stay connected to your virtual colleagues. Remote jobs can be hard, both physically and mentally. Offline workplaces foster opportunities to make meaningful connections but while working online, fewer options are available. Make conversations. Do not make your meeting with colleagues all about work; allow flexible and open conversations to flow in. Stop for some time afterward and have a light chat.
7. Bring the issue up to HR. If you think your workplace is hostile when it comes to building community, bring the issue up to HR. Some workspaces can be hard on their employees and it can often affect their productivity. Ask them to create a meaningful work environment. Team building games such as truth and life, use what you have, comic book, scavenger hunt, etc. along with outdoor activities, such as company dinners, weekend getaways can help promote togetherness and a friendly work environment.
8. Consider changing jobs. If your current job is distressing to an extreme level, it's better to move on to a better and more secure workplace that fosters a positive outlook. This might be a big decision and should only be considered if other solutions do not work or the toxicity of your current workplace is beyond comprehension.
to know more about Loneliness and Physical Health read here
to know more about Effects of Loneliness on Self Esteem read here
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References
https://www.mindtools.com/a0x3141/8-ways-to-beat-loneliness-in-the-workplace
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/isolated-at-work