For those who’ve read some of my old blog entries, you’ll know I’ve been working in my home full time since mid-2001. It’s always been a challenge to socialize with other human beings that had things in common with me while full time working from home.
Since that time I’ve maintained a sense of staying busy with single parenting my kids, community organizations, military and what dating I could accomplish. Yes, the calendar was somewhat busy but revolved around very little selfish social interaction leaving me with a sense of emptiness amplified by the constant cabin fever of working from home.
Now, one child is an adult with her own transportation and the other on the cusp of adulthood. They no longer desire to participate in things to be driven everywhere, with the exception of work for the youngest until he has his own vehicle.
What’s a dad to do with all this suddenly empty time, a deep seated sense of loneliness and no strong core of friends? Well, let’s recognize that the workplace is the number 1 place that nearly every American socially interacts with others and develops friendships and cameraderie. So, start by getting back in the workplace. Reconnect with any old acquaintances, start new acquaintances, participate in company sponsored charitable events. That’s the new goal, working in the office at least one day a week. It appears most telecommuters that do visit the workplace in my area migrate in on Wednesday, so that seems like the best.
Number 2, continue to grow a circle of acquaintances based on things in common. I’ve joined several calendars through MeetUp.com. Basically a social calendaring web site with groups that have interests all over the spectrum that also allows anyone to start their own group if they don’t find what they want.
Number 3, community organizations through work and the local area. This is generally an area where friendships develop over time based on your ability to participate of course.
Number 4, don’t be afraid to try new things. If you have the option and can work from a wi-fi cafe you enjoy, do it. Becoming a regular can provide interaction you might not be able to get otherwise.
These are my ideas of how to expand my circle. If you have other ideas, please share.
Hope this helps someone else trying to fight the cabin fever of working from home.
21 Buzzards 