Between Covid-19, the spread and improvement of WIFI connection everywhere on planet Earth, the world of work has had to review its codes. The latter broke down the walls that partitioned employees to give them the chance to enjoy life a little more. These employees, looking for an existence where pleasure is not spoiled by office hours, did not need to be asked. Many then became digital nomads. If this alternative seems to appeal to a large majority of teleworkers, there are some who mention certain harms. Among these, we find loneliness. Why is it felt by some workers in the world and how can we avoid it? This is what we plan to explain to you today!
Why does digital nomads sometimes face loneliness?
There are two main reasons why a digital nomad may feel alone.
Being “alone” at work
Teleworking has many advantages. Most of the time, you will be able to manage your schedule however you want. You will work the hours when you feel most productive and you will go out to clear your mind whenever you choose. No one is watching you and spying on your actions if you are not focused on your computer. This is a considerable gain in well-being. You normally only have an obligation of result towards your employer and your colleagues.
However, you may start to seriously miss chats around the coffee machine and lunch breaks. Loneliness can then start to weigh you down. And if by chance your company's communications system has flaws and you find yourself missing important information, the feeling of isolation will be more and more annoying.
Distance from his country of origin
In addition to the hours of working alone and where you must demonstrate more and more autonomy, the fact of finding yourself far from your reference points can also be unpleasant. Indeed, loneliness could become a real risk for the well-being of the world's workers, if they find themselves completely removed from their circle of friends and loved ones. Experiencing important events or traditional holidays without being able to share them with your family can be quite tough.
Furthermore, the host country may be known for its friendliness, but if there is no effort to build relationships with the locals, there is a real risk of feeling very alone. We all want to have someone we can count on in times of need and someone we can talk to, even if only to relieve the stress of everyday life.
How can you avoid feeling alone as a worker in the world?
According to Reine Malouin, “ loneliness is the part of the strong ". We completely understand that isolation can be positive, at times, and that it can represent a great opportunity to meditate and flourish. However, as a digital nomad, we strongly recommend that you make it temporary and surround yourself well.
Keep in touch with your colleagues
The most important thing in digital nomadism is not to lose a social link with work. To do this, your company must of course do what is necessary by developing a system or software adapted to this need. This will allow you to be up to date and not miss anything that is happening inside its premises. But such a device does not replace human contact. This is why we suggest that you work on the collaborative tools with your colleagues. But above all, you have to get used to hearing from each other. Then send a message if one of them is going through a difficult moment or experiencing a happy event, whether personal or professional…
You can also replace your exchanges with your favorite colleagues around the coffee machine by chats on Skype, Messenger or WhatsApp. This is what you will surely do with your family and friends, and it is very important. Video calls will significantly reduce the feeling of loneliness.
Don't miss opportunities to go out and socialize
Before even arriving on the soil of the country where you will connect to work, get to know its habits and traditions. This will help you understand the people you meet on a daily basis and help you build relationships more easily. You can also opt for a flatsharing to make sure you don't end up alone. Don't forget also, that by going to social networks, you will find a lot of groups like "the French in Japan" or "Francophones in Spain". This kind of communities is very close-knit and you can make virtual friendships which will probably become real.
Once you arrive at your destination, it would be interesting to register for courses language, cooking or public speaking. This will give you the opportunity to meet people who have the same interests as you. You can also do volunteering. Along with socialization, all this will fill your schedule outings and will not give you time to feel alone.