Being a leader of a small business can feel incredibly lonely at times. Your employees may also be feeling alone, especially if they are unable to spend time with family and friends due to COVID-19. Remote workers are especially susceptible to loneliness. There are ways to lessen loneliness in the work environment. Here are some:
Build Relationships
This may be easier than it sounds. Generally, you will find that you have something in common with almost everyone you meet if you take the time to get to know them. Reach out to others with similar jobs or those who are also experiencing loneliness. Talk about things other than work with the people you’re around. They will appreciate the gesture, and they will most likely reciprocate by asking about your well-being. This will create good work relationships and will help you feel less lonely.
Additionally, focusing on others can help take your mind off of your own loneliness. Reach out to others that seem lonely or that you don’t know very well. Let others share their concerns and do your best to help them out. This will keep you from being lonely and help you make meaningful work relationships.
Write
Part of feeling lonely is the inability to properly express yourself. One way to combat this is through journaling. Expressing your thoughts through journaling can help you to properly express your feelings and focus your mind. Write in a journal consistently to fight off feelings of loneliness.
Stay Positive
Loneliness can make it hard to stay happy. Know that you are not alone in loneliness. Most people experience loneliness at some point in their lives and there’s nothing wrong with feeling lonely. Additionally, you are not as alone as you might think. Try to keep your thoughts positive and maintain perspective during difficult times.
Share these tips with others in your company and use them yourself to avoid feeling lonely.