Loneliness isn’t good for your career and your mental health
The unhappiest jobs are also some of the loneliest, according to an 85-year study from Harvard researchers.
Loneliness is like a dark cloud that can hang over individuals, casting a shadow on their mental and physical well-being. It can be especially challenging in the workplace, where social connections and collaboration are crucial for success.?
The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the impact of loneliness, with remote work and social distancing measures creating a sense of isolation for many employees.?
In fact, research has shown that loneliness among employees has risen significantly during the pandemic, making it a top priority for companies as they navigate the future of work.?
But just like the sun breaking through the clouds after a storm, there are strategies and solutions that can help combat workplace loneliness and create a positive, supportive work environment.
Workplace loneliness is more common that you think
Workplace loneliness is a widespread issue that is often overlooked in today's fast-paced work environments. While it may seem like employees are constantly surrounded by colleagues and busy with work, loneliness can still be a pervasive issue.
There are various factors that can lead to loneliness in individuals in the workplace. One of the most significant causes is the lack of social connections and interaction with colleagues, which can make employees feel isolated and disconnected.?
Other factors can include a lack of support or recognition from superiors, job insecurity, a negative work environment, and a high workload. The COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation in the workplace due to remote work and social distancing measures.?
Ultimately, loneliness in the workplace can have negative impacts on an individual's mental and physical health, job performance, and overall well-being.
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How to combat workplace loneliness? Socialising is one way to alleviate the impact of loneliness.
Did you know that socialising at work can actually benefit your career and mental health??
According to research, creating small opportunities for social connection can alleviate feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction in the workplace.
So why not try having a quick catch-up with a friendly co-worker or joining a book club or sports league with colleagues who share similar interests? These small interactions can be restorative and contribute to a happier work life.
But it's not just about personal happiness.?
Managers who incentivize team collaboration and positive work relationships actually promote productivity and engagement among employees. In fact, having a best friend at work has been shown to increase productivity and engagement levels.
Despite this, some managers still view socialising at work as a productivity drain. However, studies have shown that positive work relationships lead to lower stress levels, healthier workers, and fewer days when we come home upset.
When considering job benefits, it's important to remember that work relationships are another crucial factor to consider.?
For more information about combating workplace loneliness, read the full blog here..
If you are looking for a solution to improve well-being and create a healthier work environment??
Email your interest on [email protected]. We will schedule a product demo for you.
Customer Care Executive || Ex-ICICI Bank || Ex-Extramarks || Ex-Medtrail ||
1 年Absolutely I mean loneliness hits you extremely hard and you find it very very difficult to find a way. Interestingly even though having a presence of a loveable family one does feel lonely ?? but to very minor extent because overthinking takes the off-guard. I have been personally been there and can understand how traumatic it can be but I am grateful I am out of it know.
Chief Operating Officer at Necessary Devil
1 年A close friend of mine is permanently working from home. His office is in Bengaluru, whereas he works from Pune. Most of his clients are located overseas, hence his job is location agnostic. Though his job is exciting and he is compensated well, he sorely misses the office environment. Right now many IT people are working remotely and unless the issue of loneliness is not nipped at the bud, it will snow ball into a big problem. While WFH offers great savings to employees as well as employers, I feel that the issue of loneliness needs to be proactively addressed.
Founder at vinayanant.com
1 年It's true that loneliness can have a significant impact on our professional lives, and it's great to see initiatives like NIYA that aim to address this issue. Building strong relationships and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are crucial for our overall well-being and career success. In addition to seeking support from organizations like NIYA, there are also small steps we can take in our daily lives to combat loneliness, such as reaching out to friends and family, joining clubs or organizations, or even just striking up a conversation with a colleague. It's important to remember that building meaningful connections takes time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it.
Founder @ Discover My Mind | Emotional Intelligence Training
1 年It's great to see the recognition of the impact of loneliness not just on mental health but also on career success. It's encouraging to hear that resources and support are available to combat loneliness and promote a more connected and fulfilling life.
Mother | Making waves—not with curls, but with words as twisty and wild as the ideas in my mind.
1 年Oh I know I have been working remotely and it costed me more than just loneliness. I felt isolated and stressed. It took me one year to finally get back to my life.