I Used to Think Working From Home Could Get Lonely … Not Any More
After years of sitting in oppressive cubicles and dealing with ugly office politics, working at home seemed like a dream come true. But after several weeks, I was surprised to discover I missed human company more than I thought I would.
I found myself going out, chatting with restaurant employees and postal clerks, searching for conversation at Starbucks, and talking entirely too much at office-supply stores.
And it hit me. I realized I was lonely.
Just recognizing this – and admitting it to myself – was a big step. Because a problem recognized is a problem half-solved.
Now, I sometimes call office-working friends during the day, talk briefly, and ask if they want to get together after work. They're always eager tovent the anger and frustration that build up during their workday. They appreciate my lending a sympathetic ear while they unload. And I realize, again, how lucky I am to work at home – in peace!
Another thing that helps is to really look forward to your phone calls. (Don't laugh … I'm serious!)
In a normal office, phone calls are usually an unwelcome interruption. But "working lonely" will transform your attitude. Even that brief social contact helps "make your day." When you can make the most of every call, that's a very good thing!
If you're truly glad to hear from someone, it always shows in your voice – and that makes a strong impression. If you're a little lonely, it's much easier to be pleasant, cheerful, and positive with every person who calls. The phone is a vital link to your paying clients … so "sparkle" on the phone!
Finally, working alone has changed my focus in life. I never liked the corporate rat-race – but I believe we get addicted to all the conflict and intrigue in the workplace.
If you've spent years in busy offices, give yourself plenty of time to recover when you start working alone. Realize that you may feel lonely for a while. Recovering from a dysfunction takes time. And remember … it keeps getting easier.
I have the opportunity to interview for a corporate copywriting position next week. And I've been thinking about it. But after six months on my own, it will be hard to go back to a regular office job. My main concern? It's not pay, benefits, or working conditions. The biggest question in my mind is, "Do I really want to go back … to all THAT?"
Because traffic gets worse every year. And I really enjoy the happy feeling I get when my wife comes home from work. And my cat is much better company than most of the jerks I used to work with.
If you're really, truly social, you may prefer an office job. (And your AWAI copywriting skills will blow the doors off your corporate competition.) But for me, the best choice is becoming very clear. There's no place like home.
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That's a good approach.
One of my businesses is as an Independent Business Operator promoting good health and well being and I find that I get a real charge from speaking to people who also react positively to my calls. A recent call to a customer switched my mood instantly. She had purchased a bottle of our superfood product and had noticed such a difference in her energy levels that she asked me how to distribute the product to her friends. What a feeling.
Vic Cherikoff – August 4, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Well put, well written. I'm going through exactly what you described and although I love the challenge of startups, I'll admit it gets depressing at times. Cabin fever is definitely synonymous with starting a company. But thanks for post, at least I feel like I'm not the only one out there who's going it!
-Samuel
Guest (Sam) – July 3, 2011 at 12:25 pm