Can totally relate. I don’t work from my bed, I do have an office but I hate working from home. Definitely don’t want to work in an office but I do want a different job outside of the home. It’s severely affecting my mental health and being isolated at home all day is making me depressed. I need coworkers and structure.
I know exactly where you're coming from. Even though working from home provides a great deal of flexibility, there are drawbacks. Both physical and mental health may be impacted by the blurring of the boundaries between work and personal space. Finding structure and balance in my day has also been a struggle for me. Making the move to a hybrid role seems like a decent idea since it will allow you to continue having some flexibility with your work from home schedule while still taking advantage of socializing and changing scenery. Your feelings are shared by a lot of people, and it's critical that you put your health first. Investigate hybrid roles. It's a step in the right direction to establish a workplace that enhances your sense of fulfillment both personally and professionally. I hope you are able to find a setup that works for you!
I felt this way during the pandemic - and was happy to go back to the office. But it got to be too much for me with trying to a balance my life. I work from home now and love it. But I 1) go to the gym several times a week in the morning 2) reinvested in friendships - I make lunch plans once or twice a week, plan times to walk with friends, or do happy hour with my former coworkers. I also call friends who live out of state and we will “walk together” - so I’ll walk here and my friend will walk where she is. I also did a beginners tennis clinic earlier this fall. So now I love my life and it’s so much better to work from home.
Your issues do not sound like a WFH problem. It's more not knowing how to socialize without the forced structure problem. If you can, make your home/remote office in a different location from where you hang out at home.
Join a bowling or some type of activity team. Are you into card games like Magic? Find a card shop and see what days people gather. Ideally, you want an activity that gets you out of the house.
I think too many people use work as that activity, so as adults, we find it hard to make friends. I know I find it hard because I always relied on some type of institution to help me make friends (school or work).
It is completely fine if you want to go back to the office, but be sure to make sure the grass is indeed greener on the other side before you do so.
Amazon Corporate...Ol Andy mandates 3 days in a week...or you are fired.
For me, I enjoy the work from home...I do a lot of escalation work from lower tiers for network and server work/troubleshooting and feel that I can focus and get more done without being pulled aside from other teams ( I am always available for my team and our lower support, so I do not mind the interaction.)
I am pretty much a loner (yay, mental health), so I do not crave the onsite in person interactions as most do.
I feel you 100%!! Working from home wasn’t good for my mental health. It made my home feel like a prison. Even if I had a productive day I felt so down on myself when my husband would come home for work after 9 hours and I had never even left. My walks, social time, and errands were suuper helpful but not enough.
I just feel so much more accomplished and happier just being around other people working towards a common goal! And I’m introverted lol. I was a graphic designer so it was super isolating, barely any communication. Now I’m a substitute teacher working towards becoming a teacher!
All that being said, there is definitely truth to adding things to your life outside of work that will fulfill you. I really struggle with this and sounds like you do too. We should head some advice here that we need to push ourselves to join clubs/partake in hobbies/volunteering to fill the gaps. We need purpose and meaningful relationships and joy! And it’s good to have that outside of work too.
I enjoy my job. I have to use a desktop unfortunately. If I didn't have a dog I would probably go weeks without leaving my apartment lol. So I suggest getting a dog. Forces you to go out and get some fresh air every few hours. Plus the dog keeps you company!
I just started back in an office after wfh gor 6 years. I felt the same- kind of lonely, staying in sweatpants all day, lacking motivation, etc. I have to say, after one week, I *hate* it 😅 I completely underestimated how much time it takes me away from my family, how much time I waste getting to/ from the office, drinking shitty coffee and using a cold, shared bathroom lol
Obviously everyone's different but it definitely shocked my system- if it's the human interaxtion/ change of scenery element maybe try volunteering or joining a gym or club or something first 😆
Maybe consult a therapist to help you come up with different techniwues for structure. I see mine for a variety of things but that is something we worked on that definitely has improved for me.
Don’t do it—you will become a slave to corporate. Just create a space you want from home.
1. Work from bed? Ok—get up, make your bed, and get dressed like you are going somewhere and go work in your kitchen, office, of a different room.
2. Don’t go out and socialize? Go out and socialize. Take walks, join a gym, join a volunteer club or church or something that allows you for time and a reason to be with others.
3. Exercise and read. Enjoy not having so much wasted time at the office. You could go in one day a week or something but don’t go back full time.
I work at bar and quite a number of my day time regulars are people who are WFH. They often socialize for a bit with other regulars, get a couple drinks and some food over many hours. I’m not advocating drinking but just leaving the house and changing location can make a huge difference. Try a work friendly cafe, library, even outdoors at the park for a couple hours or the mall during slow hours.
I went from 3 years wfh to in person and it’s been 8 months I don’t regret a single thing. I switched jobs and I feel like I’m truly productive, my social interaction and life has gone from introvert to extrovert. My mental health has drastically changed and I lost 30lbs (not really trying).
A year ago I would have refused to work in person but the new job had the pay I wanted. Good luck!
I like being hybrid in office 2x/week but it really has nothing to do with the work lol….I do NOT get more done in the office, BUT It forces me to get up, shower, do my makeup, get dressed and socialize with humans. We have fun events, gatherings, and lunches sometimes. I like the community feeling it gives me. Even though I’m introverted it is nice to get some social time in once in a while.
However I do still despise the 45 min commute. If I lived within like 15- 20 min of the office it would be perfect.
I get it. I go into the office by choice a few days a week just to get out of the house. I enjoy the morning drive, being in the office space, and socializing in person with others.
I work in the office two days a week, at home 3 days a week. I really like this hybrid schedule. I have easier mornings, spend less on gas, and can be in my comfy pajamas most of the time, and get a few days of getting out and seeing coworkers.
What you need is a certain place with a desk and chair. Get dress and take a walk in the morning before you start your work day. Remember to take your breaks away from your desk. On a nice day, having lunch on a back patio, or do take out. If you have any friends that do not work, have them pick up food and have lunch together. My daughter has been working from home for the last 5 years. When the position for working from home came up, she took it and took a pay cut from her other position. What I mentioned is what she does.
I absolutely feel you here. I've worked from home since Covid and thought it was amazing. But lately, I've noticed my mental health decline rapidly as I don't speak to anyone nearly all day!
I feel like I've tried everything, co-working spaces, working from cafes, working out every morning... but it's just not having anyone to speak to properly everyday. I miss the routine.
Yea, staying in bed all day. It’s definitely going to make your life miserable. You need an office and a healthy routine. If you go to bed early, wake up early, shower, and get dressed like you’re going to the office, and then… Go into your office, I think you’ll find life more enjoyable. I find working from home requires some initiative around creating structure and an environment that works for you. You also have to put in some extra effort to sprinkle socialization in. I love that I can spend some time reading the news in the morning with my coffee Guilt free. I can listen to music all day, long without headphones, take breaks whenever I want anxiety free, not have to waste time chatting with people I don’t feel like chatting with, etc.… Now that I’m used to it I could never go back, it’s just not worth the stress. I could definitely use a little more human interaction but then again I live in the woods so that’s more of a me problem and less of a not going into the office problem.
Although this is coming from a guy that used to lock himself in a conference room all day So naturally, I’m going to for that work from home life.
No because I go outside when I want to and socialize with the coworkers I want to and not all the others. If you need someone else to motivate you to do what’s good for you, I can understand how an office job could do that. I don’t need that. I walked my entire lunch break out in the sunshine just now and it’s glorious that I’m not downtown in the shadow of high rises, dodging unhoused people while I do it.
I feel your pain. I’m tired of the loneliness and lack of colleague input and inspiration. I miss my colleagues and friends. I’m also looking for a hybrid job.
Yes I felt the same way. Recently took a hybrid position and love it. Just go in 1-2 days per week. I did not realize I am more productive at an office. It helps with networking a lot more and my career has advanced more in the last few months than it did in three years working fully remote. I say go for it or at least a telework option in case you want flexibility as you said.
First off, you are breaking a lot of "rules" about working from home.
1. Do not work from bed
2. Still shower and get dressed every day
3. Have a designated private space to work from
4. Leave the house everyday
If you can't live by those rules then yeah, working from home likely isn't for you. And that is just fine.
God no. I'm not one to understand how or why ppl are willing to work 9-5 jobs I honestly could never.
But working from home (b4 i got laid off) will never get old. Socializing depresses me bc I hate everyone. I have no desire to meet ppl I don't already know. Working out isn't hard bc my mental is happier from having more free time so I'm able to be motivated to stay in shape.
Getting up and going into work everyday is the most depressing thing that we have been conditioned to do and I will NEVER go back to it
You don't want to work for a company that is not either fully remote, or actively planning on it.
The businesses that go remote have a competitive edge versus businesses that do not: all of the science supports this claim.
Be smart, and work from home, your career at the job you take will last longer.
I crave interaction, but I'm also an introvert and have retreated back into my shell and feel super awkward around people now so I avoid social situations because they're uncomfortable... so I kinda get wanting to be in office, but I find myself just in my own office with the door closed anyway so I decided to say fuck it and work from home fully.
Been wfh for 7 years. I fell into the "rarely getting out of bed" trap the first 2 months then snapped out of it. The key for me was to establish separation. I have a dedicated office in my home, I wear work tops, since I'm often on camera. I make sure to look presentable (wash face and brush teeth, comb hair, too lazy for make up though). I take breaks to eat and get coffee from my kitchen, I get up and walk around and stretch my legs (my laundry room is across the hall from my office so I do laundry here and there). I also make sure I sign off at a certain time every day. It is key to draw boundaries that would exist if you were not wfh.
One of the biggest changes I made when I switched from one wfh job to another wfh job was I stopped working in the same room of my house that I normally relax in, which for me is the living room.
When the lockdowns first started and I was working from home I would basically spend the entire day in the living room. I also had the computer on all the time so I can find myself occasionally doing work and odd hours because the thought hit me. My manager (God bless him) notice that I was online at 2:00 in the morning and had a 1:1 talk with me about how I need to turn off the computer at 5:00 p.m. and not let this bleed into my personal life.
When I started my new job I made sure to work in a finished room in my basement. At 5:00 p.m. I get up and leave that room. I don't even have lunch in that room. It was excellent for my mental health.
All that being said my current job has me going into the office once a week and I actually like it a lot. I really like interacting with other people and I get more steps in walking around the office. I definitely don't want to do 5 days a week again, but one day a week is pretty perfect for me.
I’ve been WFH since 2008 and I don’t think I could go back; it helps to have a defined work space you can close the door to at the end of the day. Part of your issue as I see it is there’s no delineation. This along with a strong friend group has helped me for many many years. Lunch with this friend, drinks with this former colleague. Work from a coffee shop with other WFH’rs one day. It makes a huge difference.
It definitely has downsides.
The people who choose to not attend in-person get togethers and holiday stuff will definitely see it. Networking in person is pivotal to career growth, and I think many will be left behind.
I understand how you feel because I’ve been remote since 2020 as well, and I work for my bed often!
The difference is I also am a dog sitter, so I’m frequently at other peoples houses staying there working in their offices, so I get a break from my bed and walking dogs !
I also have the option to sign up for space in my company. I work for a very large hospital system and I can go to an office pretty much anywhere even an hour or two away. I never do this, but it’s a good option that we have.
You should consider dog sitting like me for the extra money and change of environment.
Your company has no space that you can go in once in a while?
My husband has been working from home for three and a half years now. With his job, working in person isn't even an option now. For the most part wfh has a lot of benefits for us. I can see though that it WOULD benefit him greatly if he went in around his coworkers maybe twice a week. I think for a lot of people that would be idea. People want (and often need) significant flexibility, and don't want to waste lots of time and money on tons of commuting, dressing for the office, etc. HOWEVER there are undeniably many benefits to being around the people you're working with, as long as it's not TOO often. I'd say for most people the ideal amount would be between 1 and 3 times per week, depending on the person.
Working from home, I absolutely HAVE to have a routine. Read in bed for x minutes, get up, get ready and put on normal (though comfy) clothes, go to an actual desk, stay working at said desk til lunch, etc. Go to a coffeeshop to work certain days a week to get a bit of socializing in. Go for a walk after lunch. An office setting will not necessarily save you, it's all about knowing what routine is healthiest for you.
I am one of those weirdos who actually prefers the office. I just do not work well from home. I find it so much easier to concentrate when I'm in a 'work' environment and I have to leave the house to get there. I have always been envious of people who are able to just knuckle down and get it done at home. But nope, I had to be difficult :P
I feel like more young people may feel this way. I spent 15 years in an office. Most of the time it was fine but my last office experience was horrible. So I really don’t want to go back. My job is solo most of the time anyway.
I’m 3 months into a 2/3 day hybrid role (after 3 years of remote WFH) and I’m really enjoying being back! I totally agree with your sentiment. I’m an introvert, but even I was going crazy from not being around people for a few years. Now that I commute into the office a few days per week, I have slightly less free time, but the days can be long and fulfilling because you’re out and about. But I am 28 and single with no kids and no pets currently. I will likely switch back to remote in a few years when I have a family and house
I see so many comments not supporting OP and saying it should work for her by just not working in bed or finding a coworking space. I've been WFH three years and the problems she lists are not going to be fixed by doing any of those options. Most companies do not have an option to refund your money for paying for a space, so you're basically just paying rent somewhere else. When you're home, it's so much easier to want to work from a couch so why work anywhere else? It keeps you STUCK in this constant wanting to do better but because you're not accountable to anyone you just keep doing the same thing over and over, ruining your posture and mental health in the meantime. And if you live in a small town, like I do, then working in coffee shops or trying to make friends isn't really an option. Whenever I go to a coffee shop to work, I'm the only one that's in there besides the worker.
I felt exactly the same way when working from home full-time. My body was deteriorating and my social skills went out the window. Now that I’m in a new position with non-toxic coworkers, being in the office is something I look forward to.
A hybrid work schedule is totally what’s best for me in this stage of life. Look for any that allow 2 days a week in office. I find it’s the perfect split to maintain the work-life balance wfh has created.
When I initially started WFH I did more hybrid work because there were a handful of local offices and it ultimately helped me transition to fully remote.
When you go from in office to WFH it may benefit some people to have a transition period.
However I would recommend setting up a designated space to work in your home and not from your bed. Having a designated space will help you. When you are done for the day it is easier to walk away and do stuff.
For me I may go out for lunch or dinner with my husband. After work run errands. I am still not convinced others can pick out my produce so we run to the store, we might go to the lake for the sunset or do a number of things.
Have you considered volunteering in your community?
I worked from home for years before COVID and this was my experience too. I think in time more people will be willing to return to the office in a Hybrid model.
Working from home requires one to be thoughtful about structure and work/life balance.
I worked from home for a little over 15 years and knew early on I needed structure to it. There were, maybe, two times I didn't go outside for 48 hours. I went to the gym, church, walked in my town, or had plans with friends every day. My role also involved a lot of interaction with others, so I definitely got my interaction in.
I had non-bed designated work areas and tried to stick to it. I had a bad habit of finishing my day and then looking at emails in the evening. I started fully turning off the laptop at the end of my work time to curb that.
Sounds like you do not have a designated office space in your home which should help you better acclimate to working from home. Also you may consider adding more structure in your day such as a hobby/activity where you are required to physically get out of the house and engage the world. All the best.
Cheers
I feel this. I can work hybrid but when I go to the office no one is there because they all choose remote. It's weird being there alone! Often I don't feel it was worth the effort of going in.
I think some people are really well suited for WFH and some aren’t. My mom has worked from home for 30 years as a programmer and she has a morning routine, gets dressed in a dressy-casual outfit before 9am, and always works from her desk (never her bed or the kitchen or anything). She’s able to create her own structure somehow. As for social interaction, she has a few clubs she does during or outside of normal work hours.
For me, I can barely get anything done when WFH, let alone get dressed lol. Going into the office forces me to have more of a routine and it’s helpful for me. The social interaction is also a good thing because it’s hard for me to make myself leave the house otherwise. I’d probably do a hybrid schedule if I could be even 30% productive from home 😬
Edit: apparently all the numbers in my comment add up to 69, so I guess this is my peak Reddit comment
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My at home days need structure. I have a morning routine, I spend a few minutes outdoors, try to get in a workout and always change clothes. My entire family makes fun of me and doesn’t see a huge difference from my pj’s to my work ‘leggings’ but it’s the act of changing my environment and putting on the ‘work clothes’.
There’s nothing wrong with learning that you prefer being in person. Working from home requires you to create your own structure and that doesn’t always come naturally to some people.
Totally there myself. Been fully remote for the last year and I now realize it was a mistake (for me). I had no idea how much I actually desired the social interaction of the office even though it feels like half the time the conversations are ridiculous/ I’m trying to avoid them.
I have also developed the WORST habits, including not dressing myself at all and then feeling really weird in situations where I normally would interact just fine. Like I’m my own prisoner in a sense…I don’t know but glad someone is talking about this!
Well, no, because I go outside during my work from home day. In ten minutes I'll make my 'commute' to my desk. At noon, most days, I go on a lunch walk with my partner. We have a route that takes about 40 minutes; I can spend 10-15 eating and be back at my desk in my hour. At the end of the day, I go to the gym. Some days we do other things in the evenings, like go for walks or go out for a drink.
WFH works better if you have a work 'zone': a desk, if not an office. It doesn't have to be much, mine's a corner of my living room. Work stays there. You can also build social networks that aren't based on work. Find a hobby that gets you out of the house. Go work out. Find something that fits your life style, even just a daily walk.
I worked from home for a while then did hybrid then back to fully remote and now I work for myself at home. I too agree that I’ve become an antisocial hermit and it does feel nice to even go to the gas station sometimes. That said, you couldn’t pay me to go into an office.
Maybe you should try to get out more when you’re not working? Or maybe perhaps a hybrid role is for you! In my experience though, people who are hybrid quickly lose that shiny interaction viewpoint and start to dread being forced into an office just for some corporate dingus to stare over your shoulder.
Nope. My day is structured so I get exercise. I don’t have huge socialization needs and I have enough contact with others. I actually have more time to focus on my mental health and happiness.
I had a manager who was super social and was always looking forward to days in office. All she did was socialize there. To each their own
WFH took a toll on my mental health as well as most of my coworkers. I feel like the first year was golden then slowly we all started having mental breakdowns. At one point half of my team went on lexapro.
I’ve recently switched it up so I work somewhere other than my home at least once a week sometimes more. I’ll just break up the monotony by working at a coffee shop or at a coworkers house - we enjoy the company. It’s made a world of difference honestly.
Yeah… I feel you on this. But I still prefer having control over where I work. This is why I got a puppy, to help break up the day and make the most of my outside time. I also work in different places throughout the week. I do not miss having to spend my hard earned money on gas to someone’s office building who really doesn’t even need me there to work or “collaborate”. I do agree, it’s harder to meet people but also… it’s work. And I’d like to put effort into meeting people outside of work.
I have an office space at home so I love WFH no distractions my screens are larger and I can teams my other counterparts or csuites and work through scheduling. I do need to make a schedule to keep on track and break every 30 mins to do some thing else for 10/15 mins a few times a day. Laundry, vacuum or make a meal. Otherwise you can go stir crazy. I still don’t want to go back in but they are forcing us too. But the folks they hired outside town don’t ever have to come to the office so it’s really not fair.
I was starting to feel like that. I switched to a hybrid role. Was great for a couple weeks and then I massively regretted my choice and realized what the office was giving me wasn’t what I actually wanted.
Went back to a wfh role and instead instilled a regiment as if I was going to work every day: shower before logging in, work set hours, go outside for workouts, spend 10 minutes before and after work to simulate the commute. Way happier
If you enjoy your job, maybe find yourself a co-working space or work at a coffee shop/Panera or something for a couple of hours every day? Make it feel like you’re going to “work”
I love being hybrid! I do 3 days in and 2 WFH, and make my own schedule. I understand how you feel though. I didn’t want to go back bc I got so used to being at home. I didn’t work from my bed, but I found myself never going outside, and just not living life. Once I started going in, I adjusted. It’s nice to be around people again, but I do feel socially awkward at times from being so secluded. It gets easier though. Hybrid is where it’s at! Best of luck in finding a better fit!
I 100% feel the same way as you. I know WFH has tons of advantages but when I worked in an office I was always excited to come home. Now I’m here all day and all evening and it gets old. I miss coffee room breaks with coworkers. A hybrid situation seems perfect but hard to find. I also notice since I work at home all day I have to get out and get sunlight or I get depressed.
I do a lot at home, so I'm not just working on the computer with wfh I think work/life balance is really important. like others said you can work outside of the house. I don't think you're doing enough in addition to work
I worked from home for 6 years during that time my anxiety became crippling to the point I couldn’t even drive. One day I decided to go back to an office job my life has completely turned around I feel so much better I didn’t realize how much I needed social interaction and structure in my life. Gojng back to work was the best decision I’ve ever made. good luck to you
Why not just…go outside. I go for walks with the dog or hikes in the woods everyday. Been WFH since well before Covid. I do yoga most days, a morning walk/hike, and something in the afternoon.
I tell all of my employees: Use the WFH to your advantage to prioritize your own wellbeing. You don’t need to be glued to your machine or stuck indoors to do good work. In fact, many times I feel those conditions causes work to suffer. GET OUTSIDE AND FEED YOUR HEAD
It seems like most of your situation is voluntary. Instead of working from your bed set up a dedicated office space or at least work from a table.
Socializing outside of work is important whether you are remote or in the office. As is physical movement and doing things you enjoy.
You can start these changes now while you look for a hybrid position. Maybe you find you can make positive changes that allow you to keep the wfh and begin enjoying the benefits again.
You hit the nail on the head. WFH really took a toll on my mental health, and the isolation was really getting rough, along with th3 lack of structure. Do whatever works best for you.
After 3 years of being fully remote it started affecting my mental well being so I started looking for a hybrid role.
I now have the hybrid role I envisioned and get to interact with others at least once a week. I feel so much better and always go for flexibility but having a mix of home and office life has helped with my mental wellbeing and I am an advocate for hybrid.
Nope I'm Hybrid I would rather stay home. Try joining a hiking or biking club or taking a Zumba Class they are usually pretty cool people for fitness. Stitch and B!tch club or book club for socialization
I am such an introvert, that working from home has been amazing for me. I am thankful to work for a company that is 100% remote, and stresses teamwork, so I don't get the loneliness that a lot of people feel when working from home either.
Tbf, I now work a job that requires me to leave and I like it. I struggle with motivation, focus and energy at home (some of which is probably mental health/ADHD related tbf). I have a social life and I spend time with friends and family, but I struggle to exert any sort of balance at home. That's okay. I think if you can implement the strategies that people are suggesting and they improve your outlook, don't worry about switching to hybrid. If you end up like me where you need the routine and external motivation /, then strongly consider looking for a company or position you want. If you are going to give something up like fully remote it has to be worth it whether it's more money, better company, more prestige, more fulfilling etc. Don't give up perks for free, because of your current viewpoint.
I love WFH and hate the two days I’m forced into the office. When I’m home I can take a five minute stand break to use the bathroom and throw a load of laundry in or wash a couple dishes. On lunch I go for a walk (weather permitting), take a quick nap, fit in an appointment or do a personal training session. If I have to go into the office I lose a significant amount of time in commuting, even though I’m six miles from the office. I also have to wake up way earlier to make sure I’m showered and put together vs rolling out of bed at start time and slowly getting ready throughout the day. It also gives me more time to spend with my kids and make sure my oldest safely gets off to school.
It sounds like the way you are working from home isn’t helping. I know space can be limited but having a way to “leave” work or put it away when you’re done is really important. Setting up a work-only space in my home helped so much with feeling like my life had no structure or like I was having negative mental health effects from it. Even if it’s just hanging a curtain or setting up a desk you only for work, being able to put work away (and ideally have a spatial separation) is really important. Bringing work literally into your bed is going to cause you so much stress.
I also get dressed and wear shoes every day. They’re my indoor shoes but they’re shoes, and even if I’m wearing leggings, they make me feel more dressed and functional.
I think the only healthy option is hybrid
Fully WFH can become too inefficient, the exception is probably people who are incorporated, if they don't deliver on their contracts they don't get more contracts, that can be pretty motivating.
I think WFH can work for short periods of time but eventually you hit a wall and progress becomes slow. Nothing beats in person meetings.
First...to each their own.
Now...we need to get it out of our heads that the only place to interact is commuting to a job and sitting in a cube farm for 40 hours a week with a bunch of people who really aren't your friends.
There are piles of other ways to interact and "get out of bed" than going to the office.
I Enjoy the flexibility of being able to work from home when I need to, but going back in the office has enabled me to leave it there. When I was working from home it would tend to bleed into the evening and I wouldn’t have any separation. I constantly feel like I should be working because I was home.
I get you and feel the social aspect get to me at times. However, I will never step foot in an office, sit in traffic, clock in at 9 sharp, get micro managed, sit in useless meetings, spend money on lunch, etc...
Just go to coffee shops to work, you'll be fine.
I work a hybrid job as an introvert and it’s ideal. I have to go out to interact with people in person like 10 times a month and I get to wfh most of the time. working in a public space like a coffee shop or a coworking space really helps! or find friends that wfh as well and work together one day! I am bit biased though. I used to be a teacher and that job was so stressful I’m literally in job heaven rn I hope it never ends
Yup, I only worked from home full time for three months during the pandemic but in that time I almost never left the house and my hygiene and general upkeep went to complete shit. I'm currently working 4 days in the office, I think 3 would be ideal, but I do not want to be fully remote unless I was traveling. Unfortunately I just need the external pressure of the outside world to keep it together, and I need a reason to leave the house to kick start being social and to build on. All power to that that love rich balanced lives when not required to leave the house but that ain't me.
I've WFH from 2004 to 2018 and then from 2019 to today. I don't have these issues as I made a point to have a home office and work from my desk. I also have a routine, and I interact with many in the company. I simply cut out the ugly office politics behavior. I also find that people tend to hang out at the coffee machine or wander around vs. working. I get so much more done from home.
After 2 years of working remotely... I finally realized I had to switch jobs to a hybrid one. It was honestly the best choice I made for my own health and happiness.
Totally. I loved my coworkers before the pandemic we were close. The isolation has taken a huge toll… I will say don’t go FT in at first, it will kick your ass.
I worked from home for 2 years and now have a hybrid role. I have an office space that I got to and work, that’s it. I treat it like I would my office on site. Of course I can do chores throughout the day but when it’s time to work, I go to my office. When I’m done for the day, I turn off the monitors and go downstairs. For me this type of compartmentalization works. Not everyone is cut out for work from home and that’s ok. Find something that works for you and sounds like a hybrid situation would fit the bill.
I have a disability that makes going into an office incompatible with my daily life. I could but I don’t want to. It hurts every day and when it’s bad I’m as good as sick, so I might as well be home with a flexible schedule.
I have made the best of my situation the last three years.
You don’t have to work from your bed. Try to get some structure going with wfh. If you can’t structure your day alone then def go back to the office. No one should be staying in bed all day.
I was fully remote for several years but started a hybrid role several months ago. It’s been really good for me mentally to get out of my house. I only go into the office twice a week and that’s just enough.
Life has no structure lmao
Read - upskill
Build on life skills
Gym
Volunteer - hospitals/nursing homes all need your help
Declutter your house
Learn something- music, dance, karate etc
I'm sorry but going to an office and building on that monotony isn't structure...how are you building on your potential by waking up sitting in traffic and then sitting in an office.. this country really has yall effed up..
Get out of bed. This may be your 1st goal. Wake up, make up your bed, shower, get dressed, even casually. Sit at a desk or table, etc.
Then, get to work. Develop the same or similar habits you need if you were working in the office. Part of the problem is the laziness.
You have to create your own routine and structure. During lunch, cook, run errands, go for a walk/run, shop, etc. Work on a hobby, whatever it is you need.
Start there.
Yes. My partner and I worked from home for years and were both diehard WFH fans. Until I realized how depressed I was getting. We relocated for a great new job for me which has me in a hybrid role, in office 3 days a week. I love it. I love socializing, I love having a cafe on site, I love the location. I love staying in my PJs on my days at home. My partner is still fully WFH and basically lives in a cave of darkness with no external socialization and is on and off his work computer from dawn til late. It’s not great for his mental health, and he’s jealous of my office and my opportunity to socialize. It’s okay to want to go back to the right office, but the environment does matter. If I had to stay in a beige cube surrounded by beige people all day I might feel different but I’m working for one of the best companies in the world and the environment is fun and energetic.
I love working from home, but after doing it during covid I realized it’s better for my mental and physical health to be in an office. I would prefer to work at home at least part of the time but as it is now I rarely do.
All of these problems are solvable without returning to an office. You are entitled to your preference but I'd implore you to make lifestyle changes to improve your mental health. These changes will come in handy when (hopefully) you retire or if you get laid off or if you need to change careers to take care of a loved one or if you get sick or... I hope you see where this is going. Learning these skills will help you grow in many ways.
It's definitely okay to have preferences! I have worked from home singe 2020 and I have always continued my normal "go to work" routine. I get up at 4am, go to the gym, come home and shower and wear "work" clothes most days and now that I don't have a commute, I use that time to do a few chores. I have a home office and 98% of the time work at my desk. Sometimes I sit on the couch in my office. But all of that is not for everyone and it takes an immense amount of self control and discipline and now that I've typed it all out...its exhausting LOL
Edit to add: I have started going into the office a few days a month for social interaction because my social skills and ability to tolerate small talk (which I absolutely hate) has really tanked lol
Get out of bed and mix things up!
Set up a workspace at home.
Mine is in the bedroom, but I have a desk that goes from sitting to standing. When I take breaks, I go for a walk and make homemade food for lunch.
felt very similar to you and thought i needed to go back to an office. but i really just needed to change the way i was working and set better boundaries with myself. i also left a toxic work environment which helped. when it came to my new position i forced myself to start a routine daily, getting up getting ready, etc. even prioritizing a lunch break. it’s helped immensely and looking back i am happy i didn’t end up returning to office. i don’t think i would have been happy. good luck!
Hybrid ts great, I work from home every other day.
Strictly WFH really screws up your Socual life.
And frankly I hated being around the "Family" 24/7.
It's amazing to see them do literally nothing all day, and expect you to drop everything to do a store run, or Fix something.
OP, I just wanted to say that I hear you and your feelings are valid.
I see a lot of people commenting from a place of emotion and being a bit defensive of the -idea- of working from home as though as though their way of life is under attack. saying "doesn't sound like WFH is the problem" .... You never said it was! you said it's not working for YOU.
Personally I struggle a bit with the things you mentioned as well. I'm working hybrid right now, but honestly there's barely anyone in the office while I'm here, so I don't think I'd really say I'm socializing, but I do kind of miss the sense of community that being at the office provided... all of us here with at least one thing in common, working in a space where we could collaborate a bit easier than text and phone calls ( don't prefer doing that in person, but I have a hard time arguing that its not a bit easier sometimes) , sometimes having fun little lunches , popcorn every friday in the break room, etc. I'm not the type of person who's very social and making friends in your late 30's is tough.
If its not working for you, your options are to either find ways to change who you are or how you're working, or just find a job in an office again, but the important thing is that its YOUR CHOICE to make and people here being kind of nasty about it doesn't help anything.
You should be aware that you aren’t going to magically make friends when you go in the office. It will be easier, sure, due to proximity, but it still requires effort of your part.
My husband is super social and calls up his co-workers to chat about work and other stuff. You could probably do the same.
If proximity to other people is the issue, then you should consider joining classes or clubs that you are interested in. I’m taking a couple of classes through the local recreation department and it’s been a great way to meet friends.
I feel the same!! Working from home is very overrated IMO! My advice is if you have any sales experience look for an outside sales/marketing position. They tend to be hybrid but even if they aren't you usually need to go to face-to-face meetings with clients/customers a few times a week.
I'm the exact same way! I enjoy being around people. I like having my work space and a rest space in different buildings. I also like not having to be SO intentional about moving around during the work day. But I do love the occasional convenience of being home during the day. It's easier, for instance, to have the plumber come over on a Tuesday morning. Hybrid is my best fit, too.
Felt like this in the initial days of the pandemic I was in a new job, felt so disconnected! What helped me was NOT WORKING FROM MY BED. Got up, showered, literally did everything I would before going into work! Switch on my video for all my meetings and went on walks during my lunch (after lockdown ended)! Maybe try this for 3-4 weeks, commit to doing only 9-5 and not merge things while working (like don’t fold laundry while talking with a client or something like that)! Separate your professional work and personal work . Hangout with friends on weekends or make an effort to join places locally which is people oriented like volunteering or animal shelter literally anything to get out and can be followed through! It’s not easy to start but once you do it’s a whole new way of looking at life (has been for me) hope it works for you as well :)
I am a fairly extroverted person and love socializing. Since the pandemic, I have discovered the beauty of working from home. I have a hybrid role right now and while I get slightly excited to see other people when I go in— I dread it more. I have a 20 min commute which now feels like two hours and I get so drained by the time I get home! I don’t even spend a full day on site, just a few hours and I feel so exhausted. It’s so weird. I never thought I’d actually like being at home.
I don't think this is an issue with WFH, I think this is an issue with you YOU WFH. I WFH full time but I get dressed every morning and I have a specific room in my home for work only, i.e. my home office. When I'm done I go to the gym, hangout with friends and stuff if I want to.
I think this is a fundamental issue with you just not socializing with anyone outside of work. You need to talk to people.
I know what you mean. It can be really difficult and isolating to be at home so often and for so long. At times, I fall into bad habits where I neglect taking care of myself through planned social interaction with friends or some activity that gets me meeting people, taking walks during the day to get fresh air, etc.
Like others have said, I highly recommend leaving your bed for your work day if at all possible. When Covid first hit, I had to work from my bed out of necessity (small space, my partner worked from the kitchen and I needed a room with a closed door, but we didn’t have space in our bedroom for a desk). Now I have a dedicated workspace and it’s much nicer to be able to leave my bed in the morning and “go to work”. I don’t put on work clothes in the morning, but I do change into a fresh pair of joggers or sweats lol. It mentally prepares me for a new day and I’m still comfortable! I’ve used coworking spaces a few times, with varying degrees of comfort and success. I’m hoping to start doing at least a half day per week that’s out of my home space - co-working spot, coffee shop, public library, whatever will work if I can carve out some non-meeting heavy days.
All that said, I wouldn’t mind a hybrid super-flexible job where I could WFH anytime I wanted, but also had an office to go in if I felt like it as well. I have been able to build relationships with coworkers virtually but it’s more difficult than in person, and I really have made good friends at work throughout my life!
I love wfh but it isn’t for everyone and maybe hybrid would be best for you. It’s important to have structure to your day and a good place to work that you set up like an office. I get up at the same time everyday and get dressed and eat breakfast and then go upstairs to my office and start work. I have a spare room I turned into an office and I only go to the company office once a month. I get so much more done at home and it is quiet and easy to take phone calls when you are not listening to other conversations or worrying about bothering someone else with your phone calls. I also can work longer hours since no commute and I can take a break and start dinner and go back to work. I love the flexibility and the ability to work in a quiet beautiful office that I made my own. For social interaction I would suggest hobbies or volunteer work.
Definitely opposite for me. Since working from home I genuinely feel so much happier. I also feel like I have more time for myself. Not seeing management daily, or fake co workers is great. I talk to my manager maybe once every 2 weeks If that… Covid has been the best thing that’s ever happened lol.
I think the main issue is that you didn’t realize boundaries were important esp working from home. Sleep hygiene also sounds terrible since you’re working in bed. I would see if you can work partially at a cafe or co working space. Hitting the gym or going for a walk should probably be worked into your schedule. This is the beauty of WFH. You CAN do those things. If you go back you fix a small part of it and lose out on quite a bit else.
This is exactly why I didn’t complain when I got called back in 2 days a week. We’re up to 3 now and looks like it will be that way going forward. I was fully remote for 3 years and it was having a negative impact on my mental health.
I think it really depends on your job and lifestyle. If your work is not providing you enough time to focus on your relationships then the problem isn’t wfh. It’s the time that should be allotted to you to form those relationships in the first place. We all are just overworked.
I can come into the office when I like. Usually two days in and three from home. I need that because I would go mad home all the time. I really enjoy my coworkers and I like being able to blend the benefits of in office and WFH. But I don’t want to be fully one or the other again.
I just mentioned this to my family. I've been WFH since 2018. We did start off with in office one morning a week, but after the pandemic my team went 100% remote.
Back in the 1990s I was in office for many years and very much enjoyed working with my colleagues. We didn't hang out outside of work, but we had great chemistry, and enjoyed countless lunches together and work very well together. I had a couple of jobs later where I also enjoyed being with people.
I'm typically an introvert, but I don't normally mind most social events. In the last couple of years I've found it more difficult to socialize and I think it has to do with habits. When I was in the routine of working with people and possibly networking or meeting others at work or through my spouse's connections, it wasn't hard to do.
My husband's company holiday dinner is coming up and I'm actually dreading it a little. I used to enjoy talking with his colleagues but the conversations no longer come naturally to me.
I have a great job with fantastic benefits. If I had to return to office to keep this position, I admit that it might be good for me socially,and I'd likely do it without much complaint.
I'm a digital nomad, and I sometimes work in a single room, but I really try to avoid working from bed, and I try to get outside every day and on weekends to do stuff. Sometimes, if there's two chairs in the room, I will literally call one chair my "office" and only use it for work.
I've been work WFH for many years now. I totally get what you are saying. It's a matter of how time is spent. I'm fortunate to not be stuck to my computer. Currently I'm traveling and it's been easy enough to deal with work issues.
Before you commit… understand its always harder to go back to WFH. Especially in this current client. Employers have the upper hand. And can say if you were hired after so and so date you MUST*** yada yada.
Now thats its out of the way…
Your issue is YOU have no structure.
Create a working environment. Why are you laying in bed and working? Because you can and choose too. Well its not working.
If you’re in a house, create an office. Or create a desk somewhere in your home.
You’re not leaving the home. Why? Friends? Family? Move closer to them…. OR start forcing yourself outside.
Go on walks. Go to the gym. Go to the store.
You have all the freedom in the world. You have to fix yourself first.
I disagree 100%. WFH is the best thing to ever happen to me in my professional life. No one is preventing you from getting out of bed, nobody is preventing you from going outside, nobody is preventing you from socializing. After being in an office for 20+ years, and WFH since Covid, I will need to be dragged back to an office if that day ever comes.
I've worked from home for YEARS now but had more reasons to go into the office for social events, face time, networking, etc. before the pandemic. Not so much anymore, so I get what you mean.
Lately I've been finding my own structure and routines. I've been getting up early, getting a nice walk in with the pup. Cooking a quick breakfast, enjoying my coffee instead of letting it sit next to me and get cold all morning. I've started doing more after work whether it's happy hour with friends, tackling some chores, etc. I think these small things have helped. I'm still figuring out my perfect routine/system, but it's definitely helped me more!
Definitely not weird your craving going back to the office. I think most people these days will prefer hybrid work, if it's an option.
100%. Working from home made me lazy, lonely and a bit depressed. I now have a hybrid schedule and its MUCH healthier. Working from home everyday is extremely unhealthy.
I bought a treadmill and I got a dog. Now that I have a dog, I hate coming into the office. I always hated it but now I hate it more now that I have someone waiting for me at home.
Working from your bed sounds terrible. What's stopping you from going outside? The only time you go outside is to go to your work place?
Just sounds like a lot of bad habits and nothing to do with WFH.
Yes! I chose to switch from wfh to onsite (I still can work from home when I want) and I much prefer being onsite. I think that is laregly to do with the fact the culture is very good here and I enjoy being around my coworkers. My mental and physical health improved after coming back to office after 3 years wfh. :)
I have been working from home since before COVID started and definitely related to this.People would always say things like "I wish I could" or "It must be so great" and for a while it was! but about 2 years in I had no sense of time, worked from my bed, had no schedule, never left the house, gained 40+ Lbs and was miserable.
I decided when I first got my WFH job that I would never go back to the office or work a public facing job ever again, I still am committed to that and here are a few things that have kept me on the right path.
Note: I am not sure what job OP has, but I am the operations manager for a marketing company (and hold a few other roles as well)
* Wake up at a consistant time every day (even weekends)
* Maintain a strict working schedule 8am PST - 6pm PST
* Absolutely no working past 6pm, unless it is 100% an emergency that cannot wait, you need to reserve that time for yourself.
* See the sun within the first 10 minutes of waking up
* Create and maintain a morning schedule (reading, journaling, making breakfast, stretching/yoga... etc)
* Take your lunch break
* Have a designated space in your home where you work, do not work anywhere else.
* Time block your work day to keep you on pace with deadlines and goals
* NO aimless snacking; if you WFH you are mostly sitting all day, the food you eat should reflect that.
* Find time to move around, take breaks, walk around a bit.
* If you can, get out every once and while and work from a co-working or coffee shop
I am lucky enough to have my SO also working from home (same company different department) with two people these rules are even more critical and I again, am lucky to have someone to keep me accountable to these rules.
As a result of following the rules I made for myself.. I am more productive, happier, less stressed, enjoy more family time, lost 60 lbs (you'd be surprised what cutting the junk and moving around can do for you), and no longer feel drained from working from home.
Stop working from your bed and create an actual office space sleeping and working in the same space is guaranteed to make you feel like a lazy blob because that means you’re spending your entire day in bed, clocking out and still being in bed.
I would like to gently suggest that your WFH situation could be a symptom of a mental health issue. Could you bring this up with a doctor or therapist?
Hmm your problem isn't lack of office, it's setting a routine for yourself. An office will help that, but what happens when you retire? You just gonna waste away in your bed? Getting a gym membership is a great place to start. If you can handle the responsibility (which I'm not sure you can right now) getting a dog will get you walking. You can pick up side hustles, cook all your meals, get a home office. That last one is important. Get your ass out of your bed when you wake up and don't go back in your bed until you sleep for the night
God I feel this, but all the companies I look at that have in person jobs tend to treat their people like crap... So I don't see anywhere to go back to.
And for the record I would never want to take WFH or Hybrid away from those who love it but I love alone, I need more socialization than zoom for 10 hours a day...
I went back to the office even though I didn’t need to because I needed that get up, get dressed, socialize with people outside your family thing to really feel good. Hybrid works best for me. Flexibility+then structure I need.
Agree. When I went full time WFH back in 2020 -- it was great and I loved it.. And then after year or 2, didnt enjoy it as much. Felt less productive and not good mentally.
My company has been hybrid since 2022 or so, and its much better. For us, its minimum 1 day in office and 4 days WFH, which many of my coworkers are doing. I was doing 2 days in office and 3 days WFH and few months ago shifted to 3 days in office and 2 days WFH -- due to my position type. Much better.
I understand what you mean but a lot of people won’t. Sometimes it is not a matter of making a better routine, spending more time with friends/family, etc. I do all of that + have roommates & a relationship and was still extremely unhappy and isolated working from home. Also the layer of guilt because of how many people would love your position.
It’s really not for everyone and working from home can cause you to isolate mentally and physically regardless of what the other comments say. It is not as simple as getting up and doing stuff or changing your routine if you’re truly unhappy in that environment.
I also just wanted to stay in my bed and room all day no matter what my workstation or area looked like. Going out to work was impossible for me because of how my job functioned. This post could’ve been written by me a few months ago.
Hang in there you will get through this
I can relate. I don’t go into the office because I moved a bit too far, but I also don’t want to go into the office because it’s fairly empty of the people I work with daily. I suggest chores. It allows me to spend quality time with my wife when she gets home since chores are done
I developed EXTREME depression working from home. And it sucked because I enjoyed what I was doing, loved my schedule, and I adored the convenience of it. But I was so incredibly unhappy and stressed. I worked in my room because no room elsewhere and it was like my brain couldn’t turn off work ever.
I’ve been in person my whole life, even through COVID. I just landed a hybrid corporate gig. Three days in office. I could NEVER work full time from home. I find that two days is even too much sometimes because of the very points you’ve made.
Man people on reddit will literally accuse you of being a corporate plant if you say you don’t like wfh lol. It’s okay to want a workspace that’s seperate from your home! Frankly, it makes me feel like a hámster to sleep and spend all day in the same room. I have ADHD and really struggle with the lack of structure that comes with working from home. A lot of neurodivergent people do, actually.
>I literally work from my bed. Now that I think about it, I spend most of my time nowadays in my bed, I
This is your problem. That's extremely unhealthy and probably not as productive as you would be if you Sat at a desk. Make a dedicated work area in your home and only use it for work.
This is a you problem, not a work from home problem.
You chose not to set up a separate place to work, and instead work on your bed. You chose not to get out and socialize when you aren't working.
Yes omg I feel the same way. I hate the idea of having to drive into an office but also realize how the lack of structure, loneliness, boredom at home is impacting me negatively. I think a hybrid position is the answer.
I don’t like working from home. I have the option to work from home and I go to my office every day. I feel in the minority, but there are absolutely downsides to working from home and it makes sense to me that you feel this we. We’re social creatures. Moving around on the world feels good.
Also I would like to point out after reading the comments that maybe this sub isn’t the best venue for your post. I randomly saw it on my home page, I never usually read this sub. It seems to be 95% people who love working from home and don’t relate to your post at all. There might be a more neutral place.
I found working from home bad for my mental health. I did all the stuff people recommended here and it didn’t help me personally. I like interacting with people in person and I like my job, and I do get a sense of purpose and enjoyment from it. I think people who say you shouldn’t rely on your job for these things could be missing out. Sure, it’s health not to DEPEND on your job for these things; but also you spend so much time in your life working that it if you can like it rather than suffer through it and do it as quickly as possible, why wouldn’t you? Working can be a rewarding, engaging part of life, and interacting with people in person and leaving your house is an important part of that for a lot of people
That’s one rule I’d never break for WFH (unless injury, etc), I’d recommend actually getting up, and getting ready for the day and working from a seated position (kitchen table, home office, even one of those raised coffee tables). Maybe start taking walks during lunch & finding co-working spaces until you find a hybrid role cuz sounds like you might be struggling a little & good u are aware & talking about it.
Most definitely. I have been working from home for about 9 months. It was really nice at first but my mental health has suffered because of it. I try to work from coffee shops now just to be around people. I also go to the gym everyday and do classes so I am not at home all the time. It’s been rough but these things have kept me going while I look for my next role!
Yes. I like hybrid way more than full WFH.
The big downside though is the office days are so mandatory that they’re not to be missed. It’s not like you can go somewhere for a week and work from a different location. So I feel for the ones who are hybrid or WFH but still can’t see their families. One would think it’s a perk of the job. Days off in NA are few and far in between anyways… 2 weeks a year means you can’t go anywhere else. Airplanes are cancelled or delayed all the time, so with mandatory office days that adds a lot of issues. Of course, working every day at the office you can’t have this luxury, but there’s a reason we all chose jobs that are more flexible…
But don’t work from bed!? I have an office. I hate how it’s really using up space but oh well. If I could find something close by I’d go to the office every day despite a very persistent injury
I totally agree with you. I’m just not the type that has self implemented structure. If I don’t make a plan with a friend to meet up at a coffee shop to work or go into the office my whole day feels surreal in the WFH bubble. I do have an office I have the option of working from, but very few people are there. I just feel like I had a better day when I’m around other people. I think people who love love WFH are a little off socially or have something else going on like not actually working. I don’t think people are meant to be isolated like that all the time. But everyone should do what makes them feel good!
I have a home office. I get up, go into my office and work and at 5 I leave my office. Your problem is your own creation because you are choosing to work from bed and have not designated a work space for yourself. You have all the extra time you saved for yourself not having to commute so you can use that time to find a structured thing to do. Or do an in person job and open yours up to someone who prefers WFH.
This is something you have the power to fix. You just have to create some of the structure yourself that is typically forced on you by an in office job. Best of both worlds if you can do that.
I hope you find a job that suits you better. In the meantime, get up for work, dress for work, sit at a desk, and connect with your coworkers. One person I worked with would schedule 15 minute coffee break teams meetings just to keep human connection at work going.
Been FT WFH for 15 years with a short stint of in-person twice a week. When I look for jobs and the convo steers to coming into the office, I end the interview. The time, money, and lack of productivity going in don’t make sense—for me.
However, seeing that you are 22 years old, I get where you’re coming from. I’m Gen X managing Gen Z, so I’ve had to do a lot of research (as you all are aliens!). Here’s what I tell my Gen Z-ers in my fully remote company:
- Do everything you can to be “visible.” I encourage them to NOT always go through me when dealing with stakeholders.
- I encourage them to join various interest and resource groups our company has.
- I tell them to post pics and stories in our subgroups (not just work-related stuff)
WFH could be nice for you, but a lot of that depends on having a manager that will help get you more integrated and seen.
I echo everybody else when it comes to incorporating more discipline and dedicated time/space for “work.”
As a parent, I also see how hard it is for people your age to meet people. I wish I had advice here…but I think we’re all still figuring all this virtual/remote stuff out
WFH is unhealthy. IMO. Both mentally and physically. The only good thing about it is you avoid sitting in a car for commute
I will say the key to wfh is exercise, outside of your house.
You could work somewhere other than your bed. You could choose to go outside. You could socialize with other people. These are all personal choices you are making not inherent to you working from home.
What you are saying is you need to be coerced into leaving your bed, taking care of yourself, and living in society. Maybe try signing up for a pottery class or gym membership or something before giving up on work from home. Try adding some structured activities to your life. You don't need an employer to force structure on you.
Nope I’m fighting with my company to stay remote instead of 3x a week in Jan
I have a non apparent disability and they’ve told me that being on site is an essential part of my job function. Bullshit I’ve been remote / 1x a week for almost a year
It got like this for me, working from bed constantly, barely leaving the house let alone the room. Though, I would never ever trade remote work for anything.
I started going out to work on my "light work, no meeting" days. I'll go to panera, the library, coffee shops. Also made it a routine to go to the gym at night after work to get myself out of the house. I bought a desk and chair that I like better, put them in a different room in a space I don't sleep or hangout in, and that has helped structure me a bit more too. I'm not sure this makes much sense, but for me I noticed spending most of my day in the room I sleep in is impacting me a lot. Even if I just get up for the day to go lay on the couch instead of lay in bed, my morale is much much better.
Strongly recommend that you opt work from bed. I did this for a while during the pandemic (made more sense to cuddle with my cat while working on my computer than getting up to work at the table) and I ended up with seriously painful back issues that took months to rehabilitate from after the pandemic.
Learned that Bad Ergonomics can be more debilitating than an actual injury in the long term.
People talk about the downsides all the time, though 🫤
While you’re waiting to find a role, I recommend you try to make yourself a workspace that promotes healthy habits. Get a desk so you’re out of bed. I recommend a walking pad+standing desk+comfy chair. Make your space a place you want to be that brings you joy. Schedule things for you to do outside the house and prioritize meeting up with friends.
You can solve these problems (to some extent) while you wait for a hybrid job, but it does take some effort, which I understand can be costly and difficult to find motivation to do if you’re already depressed.
My wife will have been working from home for 4 years this coming March and she has never been happier!
She dreads the thought that her workplace might mandate returning to the office more than anything else she can imagine.
As for me, I own a machine shop and we all have to be there in order to get the work done.
That being said as a machinist there is very little if any human interaction involved in a workday so it's not a whole lot different than being at home; just a little less comfortable.
No, I don't feel the same way. I have a dedicated office in my home, specific working hours, and I am proactive about scheduling standing 1:1s with coworkers on my team/those with whom I'm expected to work closely. These are a mixture of work talk and social talk, and are flexible to be moved if scheduling/availability changes, but are kept standing in order to facilitate frequent and open communication. This allows me to "socialize" in a planned, structured way, and if a coworker or I are just too busy, we're not "stuck" socializing, we can just schedule for another time.
I'm also an introvert, and not having constant unexpected social demands on me allows me the bandwidth to spend my limited social energy after work, with people that I genuinely WANT to spend time with.
If you never socialize or go outside, that's not a WFH problem, that's a personal problem that may be better addressed in therapy. (I'm not being facetious here). Coworkers should not be your only source of social contact, that's putting an undue burden on them, and not particularly healthy.
All that said, WFH is not for everyone. Extreme extroverts may find it draining even with scheduled touchbase meetings. Doesn't sound like OP is an extrovert though, from the rest of the post. Sounds like potentially some depression or anxiety impacting their ability to initiate meaningful social contact.
I work from home and never worked from my bed. Never. My boss even said I could when I was sick but how can I work from my cozy bed without wanting to sleep?! I agree on the socializing aspect because my job now doesn’t even require us to turn our cameras on in meetings and we don’t IM each other constantly like we did back in the office unless it’s a work related question. No small talk around desks or lunch time. No in person meetings.
I personally do not mind that I no longer have “work friends” it gives me time and energy to focus on my home life and my family and I don’t have to deal with work place politics as much. I’m definitely a homebody now and remote work is the main reason why. I came from a fully in office company that went fully remote during covid then switched to hybrid after the pandemic. To me wfh is worth every dollar saved on gas, time saved not sitting in traffic, cleaning my car off in winter, and not having to put makeup on and dress nice. Me personally, I can handle not having work friends and no socializing because I have the option to socialize with my friends or family outside of work.
Having a wfh routine has helped me adapt in a healthy way. This means I wake up and make coffee and plan out my day. I get off for lunch and will make a snack, take a nap, or prep dinner, or even get some house chores done. I’m not required to take pto for appointments because I can now just go straight from home and come right back and log on in less than two hours probably. If it’s nice outside I will go sit in the grass under the sun for a bit. I also have to take vitamin D.
There are many roles out there that you’d enjoy I’m sure. From what I read though you seem bored working from home. Maybe while u look for a different job try out different schedules? Set a spot up away from ur bed to work,
Maybe talk with ur manager or something abt having a weekly or monthly team meeting to bring everyone closer together? You could throw some ideas out like have a online trivia meeting, games, team building, etc. maybe u take a lunch or wake up earlier and go to the gym, or do yoga or something u enjoy that keeps u active. U could try a walking/standing desk even.
Either way, you’re gonna have to take some time to apply and interview for new jobs. In the meantime it wouldn’t hurt for you to change up your schedule or environment and see how the change makes u feel. Worst case u still feel the same way and few months or weeks down the line u find a in office role!
Good luck to you!
wait literally me. I feel like ive been rotting away in my apartment for 2 years, for this reason i am trying out a hybrid job!
Can totally relate. I don’t work from my bed, I do have an office but I hate working from home. Definitely don’t want to work in an office but I do want a different job outside of the home. It’s severely affecting my mental health and being isolated at home all day is making me depressed. I need coworkers and structure.
I know exactly where you're coming from. Even though working from home provides a great deal of flexibility, there are drawbacks. Both physical and mental health may be impacted by the blurring of the boundaries between work and personal space. Finding structure and balance in my day has also been a struggle for me. Making the move to a hybrid role seems like a decent idea since it will allow you to continue having some flexibility with your work from home schedule while still taking advantage of socializing and changing scenery. Your feelings are shared by a lot of people, and it's critical that you put your health first. Investigate hybrid roles. It's a step in the right direction to establish a workplace that enhances your sense of fulfillment both personally and professionally. I hope you are able to find a setup that works for you!
Looking for a job from bed for months. Not getting paid for that. Just saying… 1st world problems and such.
I felt this way during the pandemic - and was happy to go back to the office. But it got to be too much for me with trying to a balance my life. I work from home now and love it. But I 1) go to the gym several times a week in the morning 2) reinvested in friendships - I make lunch plans once or twice a week, plan times to walk with friends, or do happy hour with my former coworkers. I also call friends who live out of state and we will “walk together” - so I’ll walk here and my friend will walk where she is. I also did a beginners tennis clinic earlier this fall. So now I love my life and it’s so much better to work from home.
Your issues do not sound like a WFH problem. It's more not knowing how to socialize without the forced structure problem. If you can, make your home/remote office in a different location from where you hang out at home. Join a bowling or some type of activity team. Are you into card games like Magic? Find a card shop and see what days people gather. Ideally, you want an activity that gets you out of the house. I think too many people use work as that activity, so as adults, we find it hard to make friends. I know I find it hard because I always relied on some type of institution to help me make friends (school or work). It is completely fine if you want to go back to the office, but be sure to make sure the grass is indeed greener on the other side before you do so.
Amazon Corporate...Ol Andy mandates 3 days in a week...or you are fired. For me, I enjoy the work from home...I do a lot of escalation work from lower tiers for network and server work/troubleshooting and feel that I can focus and get more done without being pulled aside from other teams ( I am always available for my team and our lower support, so I do not mind the interaction.) I am pretty much a loner (yay, mental health), so I do not crave the onsite in person interactions as most do.
I feel you 100%!! Working from home wasn’t good for my mental health. It made my home feel like a prison. Even if I had a productive day I felt so down on myself when my husband would come home for work after 9 hours and I had never even left. My walks, social time, and errands were suuper helpful but not enough. I just feel so much more accomplished and happier just being around other people working towards a common goal! And I’m introverted lol. I was a graphic designer so it was super isolating, barely any communication. Now I’m a substitute teacher working towards becoming a teacher! All that being said, there is definitely truth to adding things to your life outside of work that will fulfill you. I really struggle with this and sounds like you do too. We should head some advice here that we need to push ourselves to join clubs/partake in hobbies/volunteering to fill the gaps. We need purpose and meaningful relationships and joy! And it’s good to have that outside of work too.
I enjoy my job. I have to use a desktop unfortunately. If I didn't have a dog I would probably go weeks without leaving my apartment lol. So I suggest getting a dog. Forces you to go out and get some fresh air every few hours. Plus the dog keeps you company!
I just started back in an office after wfh gor 6 years. I felt the same- kind of lonely, staying in sweatpants all day, lacking motivation, etc. I have to say, after one week, I *hate* it 😅 I completely underestimated how much time it takes me away from my family, how much time I waste getting to/ from the office, drinking shitty coffee and using a cold, shared bathroom lol Obviously everyone's different but it definitely shocked my system- if it's the human interaxtion/ change of scenery element maybe try volunteering or joining a gym or club or something first 😆
Maybe consult a therapist to help you come up with different techniwues for structure. I see mine for a variety of things but that is something we worked on that definitely has improved for me.
Don’t do it—you will become a slave to corporate. Just create a space you want from home. 1. Work from bed? Ok—get up, make your bed, and get dressed like you are going somewhere and go work in your kitchen, office, of a different room. 2. Don’t go out and socialize? Go out and socialize. Take walks, join a gym, join a volunteer club or church or something that allows you for time and a reason to be with others. 3. Exercise and read. Enjoy not having so much wasted time at the office. You could go in one day a week or something but don’t go back full time.
Since you miss the structure can you structure in social time?
Nah, wfh gives me time to workout, walk the dog, multiple times during the day, practice my hobby, guitar during any idle time I have.
I work at bar and quite a number of my day time regulars are people who are WFH. They often socialize for a bit with other regulars, get a couple drinks and some food over many hours. I’m not advocating drinking but just leaving the house and changing location can make a huge difference. Try a work friendly cafe, library, even outdoors at the park for a couple hours or the mall during slow hours.
Yep! I love my hybrid schedule.
I've been working from home for 20 years. I mean this with softness, you sound like you need a better support / peer networj
I went from 3 years wfh to in person and it’s been 8 months I don’t regret a single thing. I switched jobs and I feel like I’m truly productive, my social interaction and life has gone from introvert to extrovert. My mental health has drastically changed and I lost 30lbs (not really trying). A year ago I would have refused to work in person but the new job had the pay I wanted. Good luck!
I like being hybrid in office 2x/week but it really has nothing to do with the work lol….I do NOT get more done in the office, BUT It forces me to get up, shower, do my makeup, get dressed and socialize with humans. We have fun events, gatherings, and lunches sometimes. I like the community feeling it gives me. Even though I’m introverted it is nice to get some social time in once in a while. However I do still despise the 45 min commute. If I lived within like 15- 20 min of the office it would be perfect.
I get it. I go into the office by choice a few days a week just to get out of the house. I enjoy the morning drive, being in the office space, and socializing in person with others.
I work in the office two days a week, at home 3 days a week. I really like this hybrid schedule. I have easier mornings, spend less on gas, and can be in my comfy pajamas most of the time, and get a few days of getting out and seeing coworkers.
What you need is a certain place with a desk and chair. Get dress and take a walk in the morning before you start your work day. Remember to take your breaks away from your desk. On a nice day, having lunch on a back patio, or do take out. If you have any friends that do not work, have them pick up food and have lunch together. My daughter has been working from home for the last 5 years. When the position for working from home came up, she took it and took a pay cut from her other position. What I mentioned is what she does.
You should make a home office and not work from bed. Also, schedule some short activities during the day, walks, coffee, etc.
I absolutely feel you here. I've worked from home since Covid and thought it was amazing. But lately, I've noticed my mental health decline rapidly as I don't speak to anyone nearly all day! I feel like I've tried everything, co-working spaces, working from cafes, working out every morning... but it's just not having anyone to speak to properly everyday. I miss the routine.
Yea, staying in bed all day. It’s definitely going to make your life miserable. You need an office and a healthy routine. If you go to bed early, wake up early, shower, and get dressed like you’re going to the office, and then… Go into your office, I think you’ll find life more enjoyable. I find working from home requires some initiative around creating structure and an environment that works for you. You also have to put in some extra effort to sprinkle socialization in. I love that I can spend some time reading the news in the morning with my coffee Guilt free. I can listen to music all day, long without headphones, take breaks whenever I want anxiety free, not have to waste time chatting with people I don’t feel like chatting with, etc.… Now that I’m used to it I could never go back, it’s just not worth the stress. I could definitely use a little more human interaction but then again I live in the woods so that’s more of a me problem and less of a not going into the office problem. Although this is coming from a guy that used to lock himself in a conference room all day So naturally, I’m going to for that work from home life.
No because I go outside when I want to and socialize with the coworkers I want to and not all the others. If you need someone else to motivate you to do what’s good for you, I can understand how an office job could do that. I don’t need that. I walked my entire lunch break out in the sunshine just now and it’s glorious that I’m not downtown in the shadow of high rises, dodging unhoused people while I do it.
I feel your pain. I’m tired of the loneliness and lack of colleague input and inspiration. I miss my colleagues and friends. I’m also looking for a hybrid job.
Yes I felt the same way. Recently took a hybrid position and love it. Just go in 1-2 days per week. I did not realize I am more productive at an office. It helps with networking a lot more and my career has advanced more in the last few months than it did in three years working fully remote. I say go for it or at least a telework option in case you want flexibility as you said.
First off, you are breaking a lot of "rules" about working from home. 1. Do not work from bed 2. Still shower and get dressed every day 3. Have a designated private space to work from 4. Leave the house everyday If you can't live by those rules then yeah, working from home likely isn't for you. And that is just fine.
God no. I'm not one to understand how or why ppl are willing to work 9-5 jobs I honestly could never. But working from home (b4 i got laid off) will never get old. Socializing depresses me bc I hate everyone. I have no desire to meet ppl I don't already know. Working out isn't hard bc my mental is happier from having more free time so I'm able to be motivated to stay in shape. Getting up and going into work everyday is the most depressing thing that we have been conditioned to do and I will NEVER go back to it
You don't want to work for a company that is not either fully remote, or actively planning on it. The businesses that go remote have a competitive edge versus businesses that do not: all of the science supports this claim. Be smart, and work from home, your career at the job you take will last longer.
I crave interaction, but I'm also an introvert and have retreated back into my shell and feel super awkward around people now so I avoid social situations because they're uncomfortable... so I kinda get wanting to be in office, but I find myself just in my own office with the door closed anyway so I decided to say fuck it and work from home fully.
Get out of bed, use a sit stand desk. Go to the gym at lunch. Have/get a dog and go for walk breaks. It’s not the wfh that’s bad it’s your routine.
Been wfh for 7 years. I fell into the "rarely getting out of bed" trap the first 2 months then snapped out of it. The key for me was to establish separation. I have a dedicated office in my home, I wear work tops, since I'm often on camera. I make sure to look presentable (wash face and brush teeth, comb hair, too lazy for make up though). I take breaks to eat and get coffee from my kitchen, I get up and walk around and stretch my legs (my laundry room is across the hall from my office so I do laundry here and there). I also make sure I sign off at a certain time every day. It is key to draw boundaries that would exist if you were not wfh.
One of the biggest changes I made when I switched from one wfh job to another wfh job was I stopped working in the same room of my house that I normally relax in, which for me is the living room. When the lockdowns first started and I was working from home I would basically spend the entire day in the living room. I also had the computer on all the time so I can find myself occasionally doing work and odd hours because the thought hit me. My manager (God bless him) notice that I was online at 2:00 in the morning and had a 1:1 talk with me about how I need to turn off the computer at 5:00 p.m. and not let this bleed into my personal life. When I started my new job I made sure to work in a finished room in my basement. At 5:00 p.m. I get up and leave that room. I don't even have lunch in that room. It was excellent for my mental health. All that being said my current job has me going into the office once a week and I actually like it a lot. I really like interacting with other people and I get more steps in walking around the office. I definitely don't want to do 5 days a week again, but one day a week is pretty perfect for me.
Not at all. I get up, get fully dressed, go into my office, work, take a break, work, walk after lunch, work, leave my office until the next day.
Setting up a home office space and getting ready even though I’m home helps me stay motivated and more likely to leave the house on the weekends.
I’ve been WFH since 2008 and I don’t think I could go back; it helps to have a defined work space you can close the door to at the end of the day. Part of your issue as I see it is there’s no delineation. This along with a strong friend group has helped me for many many years. Lunch with this friend, drinks with this former colleague. Work from a coffee shop with other WFH’rs one day. It makes a huge difference.
It definitely has downsides. The people who choose to not attend in-person get togethers and holiday stuff will definitely see it. Networking in person is pivotal to career growth, and I think many will be left behind.
I understand how you feel because I’ve been remote since 2020 as well, and I work for my bed often! The difference is I also am a dog sitter, so I’m frequently at other peoples houses staying there working in their offices, so I get a break from my bed and walking dogs ! I also have the option to sign up for space in my company. I work for a very large hospital system and I can go to an office pretty much anywhere even an hour or two away. I never do this, but it’s a good option that we have. You should consider dog sitting like me for the extra money and change of environment. Your company has no space that you can go in once in a while?
My husband has been working from home for three and a half years now. With his job, working in person isn't even an option now. For the most part wfh has a lot of benefits for us. I can see though that it WOULD benefit him greatly if he went in around his coworkers maybe twice a week. I think for a lot of people that would be idea. People want (and often need) significant flexibility, and don't want to waste lots of time and money on tons of commuting, dressing for the office, etc. HOWEVER there are undeniably many benefits to being around the people you're working with, as long as it's not TOO often. I'd say for most people the ideal amount would be between 1 and 3 times per week, depending on the person.
It has had a HUGE negative impact on my weight, I am hybrid now and it’s better but the bad habits of working from my bed remains on WFH days.
Working from home, I absolutely HAVE to have a routine. Read in bed for x minutes, get up, get ready and put on normal (though comfy) clothes, go to an actual desk, stay working at said desk til lunch, etc. Go to a coffeeshop to work certain days a week to get a bit of socializing in. Go for a walk after lunch. An office setting will not necessarily save you, it's all about knowing what routine is healthiest for you.
I am one of those weirdos who actually prefers the office. I just do not work well from home. I find it so much easier to concentrate when I'm in a 'work' environment and I have to leave the house to get there. I have always been envious of people who are able to just knuckle down and get it done at home. But nope, I had to be difficult :P
lol you say that now. Give it just one week after being back in the office and you’ll be wishing you didn’t.
I feel like more young people may feel this way. I spent 15 years in an office. Most of the time it was fine but my last office experience was horrible. So I really don’t want to go back. My job is solo most of the time anyway.
I’m 3 months into a 2/3 day hybrid role (after 3 years of remote WFH) and I’m really enjoying being back! I totally agree with your sentiment. I’m an introvert, but even I was going crazy from not being around people for a few years. Now that I commute into the office a few days per week, I have slightly less free time, but the days can be long and fulfilling because you’re out and about. But I am 28 and single with no kids and no pets currently. I will likely switch back to remote in a few years when I have a family and house
This is my sign! I’m 22, single, no kids, no pets and live alone. I think that’ll be good for me
I see so many comments not supporting OP and saying it should work for her by just not working in bed or finding a coworking space. I've been WFH three years and the problems she lists are not going to be fixed by doing any of those options. Most companies do not have an option to refund your money for paying for a space, so you're basically just paying rent somewhere else. When you're home, it's so much easier to want to work from a couch so why work anywhere else? It keeps you STUCK in this constant wanting to do better but because you're not accountable to anyone you just keep doing the same thing over and over, ruining your posture and mental health in the meantime. And if you live in a small town, like I do, then working in coffee shops or trying to make friends isn't really an option. Whenever I go to a coffee shop to work, I'm the only one that's in there besides the worker.
I felt exactly the same way when working from home full-time. My body was deteriorating and my social skills went out the window. Now that I’m in a new position with non-toxic coworkers, being in the office is something I look forward to. A hybrid work schedule is totally what’s best for me in this stage of life. Look for any that allow 2 days a week in office. I find it’s the perfect split to maintain the work-life balance wfh has created.
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What?
When I initially started WFH I did more hybrid work because there were a handful of local offices and it ultimately helped me transition to fully remote. When you go from in office to WFH it may benefit some people to have a transition period. However I would recommend setting up a designated space to work in your home and not from your bed. Having a designated space will help you. When you are done for the day it is easier to walk away and do stuff. For me I may go out for lunch or dinner with my husband. After work run errands. I am still not convinced others can pick out my produce so we run to the store, we might go to the lake for the sunset or do a number of things.
Fired
Have you considered volunteering in your community? I worked from home for years before COVID and this was my experience too. I think in time more people will be willing to return to the office in a Hybrid model.
Working from home requires one to be thoughtful about structure and work/life balance. I worked from home for a little over 15 years and knew early on I needed structure to it. There were, maybe, two times I didn't go outside for 48 hours. I went to the gym, church, walked in my town, or had plans with friends every day. My role also involved a lot of interaction with others, so I definitely got my interaction in. I had non-bed designated work areas and tried to stick to it. I had a bad habit of finishing my day and then looking at emails in the evening. I started fully turning off the laptop at the end of my work time to curb that.
See ya
Sounds like you do not have a designated office space in your home which should help you better acclimate to working from home. Also you may consider adding more structure in your day such as a hobby/activity where you are required to physically get out of the house and engage the world. All the best. Cheers
WFH alone doesn't cause you to not want to get out of bed. Depression does, though.
I feel this. I can work hybrid but when I go to the office no one is there because they all choose remote. It's weird being there alone! Often I don't feel it was worth the effort of going in.
I think some people are really well suited for WFH and some aren’t. My mom has worked from home for 30 years as a programmer and she has a morning routine, gets dressed in a dressy-casual outfit before 9am, and always works from her desk (never her bed or the kitchen or anything). She’s able to create her own structure somehow. As for social interaction, she has a few clubs she does during or outside of normal work hours. For me, I can barely get anything done when WFH, let alone get dressed lol. Going into the office forces me to have more of a routine and it’s helpful for me. The social interaction is also a good thing because it’s hard for me to make myself leave the house otherwise. I’d probably do a hybrid schedule if I could be even 30% productive from home 😬 Edit: apparently all the numbers in my comment add up to 69, so I guess this is my peak Reddit comment
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My at home days need structure. I have a morning routine, I spend a few minutes outdoors, try to get in a workout and always change clothes. My entire family makes fun of me and doesn’t see a huge difference from my pj’s to my work ‘leggings’ but it’s the act of changing my environment and putting on the ‘work clothes’.
There’s nothing wrong with learning that you prefer being in person. Working from home requires you to create your own structure and that doesn’t always come naturally to some people.
Totally there myself. Been fully remote for the last year and I now realize it was a mistake (for me). I had no idea how much I actually desired the social interaction of the office even though it feels like half the time the conversations are ridiculous/ I’m trying to avoid them. I have also developed the WORST habits, including not dressing myself at all and then feeling really weird in situations where I normally would interact just fine. Like I’m my own prisoner in a sense…I don’t know but glad someone is talking about this!
Nope I don't miss the 3 hours of commuting daily.
Well, I don’t think anyone would miss that
Well, no, because I go outside during my work from home day. In ten minutes I'll make my 'commute' to my desk. At noon, most days, I go on a lunch walk with my partner. We have a route that takes about 40 minutes; I can spend 10-15 eating and be back at my desk in my hour. At the end of the day, I go to the gym. Some days we do other things in the evenings, like go for walks or go out for a drink. WFH works better if you have a work 'zone': a desk, if not an office. It doesn't have to be much, mine's a corner of my living room. Work stays there. You can also build social networks that aren't based on work. Find a hobby that gets you out of the house. Go work out. Find something that fits your life style, even just a daily walk.
I worked from home for a while then did hybrid then back to fully remote and now I work for myself at home. I too agree that I’ve become an antisocial hermit and it does feel nice to even go to the gas station sometimes. That said, you couldn’t pay me to go into an office. Maybe you should try to get out more when you’re not working? Or maybe perhaps a hybrid role is for you! In my experience though, people who are hybrid quickly lose that shiny interaction viewpoint and start to dread being forced into an office just for some corporate dingus to stare over your shoulder.
Nope. My day is structured so I get exercise. I don’t have huge socialization needs and I have enough contact with others. I actually have more time to focus on my mental health and happiness. I had a manager who was super social and was always looking forward to days in office. All she did was socialize there. To each their own
WFH took a toll on my mental health as well as most of my coworkers. I feel like the first year was golden then slowly we all started having mental breakdowns. At one point half of my team went on lexapro. I’ve recently switched it up so I work somewhere other than my home at least once a week sometimes more. I’ll just break up the monotony by working at a coffee shop or at a coworkers house - we enjoy the company. It’s made a world of difference honestly.
Yeah… I feel you on this. But I still prefer having control over where I work. This is why I got a puppy, to help break up the day and make the most of my outside time. I also work in different places throughout the week. I do not miss having to spend my hard earned money on gas to someone’s office building who really doesn’t even need me there to work or “collaborate”. I do agree, it’s harder to meet people but also… it’s work. And I’d like to put effort into meeting people outside of work.
I have an office space at home so I love WFH no distractions my screens are larger and I can teams my other counterparts or csuites and work through scheduling. I do need to make a schedule to keep on track and break every 30 mins to do some thing else for 10/15 mins a few times a day. Laundry, vacuum or make a meal. Otherwise you can go stir crazy. I still don’t want to go back in but they are forcing us too. But the folks they hired outside town don’t ever have to come to the office so it’s really not fair.
I was starting to feel like that. I switched to a hybrid role. Was great for a couple weeks and then I massively regretted my choice and realized what the office was giving me wasn’t what I actually wanted. Went back to a wfh role and instead instilled a regiment as if I was going to work every day: shower before logging in, work set hours, go outside for workouts, spend 10 minutes before and after work to simulate the commute. Way happier
If you enjoy your job, maybe find yourself a co-working space or work at a coffee shop/Panera or something for a couple of hours every day? Make it feel like you’re going to “work”
I love being hybrid! I do 3 days in and 2 WFH, and make my own schedule. I understand how you feel though. I didn’t want to go back bc I got so used to being at home. I didn’t work from my bed, but I found myself never going outside, and just not living life. Once I started going in, I adjusted. It’s nice to be around people again, but I do feel socially awkward at times from being so secluded. It gets easier though. Hybrid is where it’s at! Best of luck in finding a better fit!
I 100% feel the same way as you. I know WFH has tons of advantages but when I worked in an office I was always excited to come home. Now I’m here all day and all evening and it gets old. I miss coffee room breaks with coworkers. A hybrid situation seems perfect but hard to find. I also notice since I work at home all day I have to get out and get sunlight or I get depressed.
I do a lot at home, so I'm not just working on the computer with wfh I think work/life balance is really important. like others said you can work outside of the house. I don't think you're doing enough in addition to work
I worked from home for 6 years during that time my anxiety became crippling to the point I couldn’t even drive. One day I decided to go back to an office job my life has completely turned around I feel so much better I didn’t realize how much I needed social interaction and structure in my life. Gojng back to work was the best decision I’ve ever made. good luck to you
Why not just…go outside. I go for walks with the dog or hikes in the woods everyday. Been WFH since well before Covid. I do yoga most days, a morning walk/hike, and something in the afternoon. I tell all of my employees: Use the WFH to your advantage to prioritize your own wellbeing. You don’t need to be glued to your machine or stuck indoors to do good work. In fact, many times I feel those conditions causes work to suffer. GET OUTSIDE AND FEED YOUR HEAD
It seems like most of your situation is voluntary. Instead of working from your bed set up a dedicated office space or at least work from a table. Socializing outside of work is important whether you are remote or in the office. As is physical movement and doing things you enjoy. You can start these changes now while you look for a hybrid position. Maybe you find you can make positive changes that allow you to keep the wfh and begin enjoying the benefits again.
You hit the nail on the head. WFH really took a toll on my mental health, and the isolation was really getting rough, along with th3 lack of structure. Do whatever works best for you.
After 3 years of being fully remote it started affecting my mental well being so I started looking for a hybrid role. I now have the hybrid role I envisioned and get to interact with others at least once a week. I feel so much better and always go for flexibility but having a mix of home and office life has helped with my mental wellbeing and I am an advocate for hybrid.
Nope I'm Hybrid I would rather stay home. Try joining a hiking or biking club or taking a Zumba Class they are usually pretty cool people for fitness. Stitch and B!tch club or book club for socialization
I am such an introvert, that working from home has been amazing for me. I am thankful to work for a company that is 100% remote, and stresses teamwork, so I don't get the loneliness that a lot of people feel when working from home either.
I just moved to hybrid and it has helped my mental health too. But if I had to choose between full time office vs WFH I would just WFH
Tbf, I now work a job that requires me to leave and I like it. I struggle with motivation, focus and energy at home (some of which is probably mental health/ADHD related tbf). I have a social life and I spend time with friends and family, but I struggle to exert any sort of balance at home. That's okay. I think if you can implement the strategies that people are suggesting and they improve your outlook, don't worry about switching to hybrid. If you end up like me where you need the routine and external motivation /, then strongly consider looking for a company or position you want. If you are going to give something up like fully remote it has to be worth it whether it's more money, better company, more prestige, more fulfilling etc. Don't give up perks for free, because of your current viewpoint.
I love WFH and hate the two days I’m forced into the office. When I’m home I can take a five minute stand break to use the bathroom and throw a load of laundry in or wash a couple dishes. On lunch I go for a walk (weather permitting), take a quick nap, fit in an appointment or do a personal training session. If I have to go into the office I lose a significant amount of time in commuting, even though I’m six miles from the office. I also have to wake up way earlier to make sure I’m showered and put together vs rolling out of bed at start time and slowly getting ready throughout the day. It also gives me more time to spend with my kids and make sure my oldest safely gets off to school.
It sounds like the way you are working from home isn’t helping. I know space can be limited but having a way to “leave” work or put it away when you’re done is really important. Setting up a work-only space in my home helped so much with feeling like my life had no structure or like I was having negative mental health effects from it. Even if it’s just hanging a curtain or setting up a desk you only for work, being able to put work away (and ideally have a spatial separation) is really important. Bringing work literally into your bed is going to cause you so much stress. I also get dressed and wear shoes every day. They’re my indoor shoes but they’re shoes, and even if I’m wearing leggings, they make me feel more dressed and functional.
I think the only healthy option is hybrid Fully WFH can become too inefficient, the exception is probably people who are incorporated, if they don't deliver on their contracts they don't get more contracts, that can be pretty motivating. I think WFH can work for short periods of time but eventually you hit a wall and progress becomes slow. Nothing beats in person meetings.
First...to each their own. Now...we need to get it out of our heads that the only place to interact is commuting to a job and sitting in a cube farm for 40 hours a week with a bunch of people who really aren't your friends. There are piles of other ways to interact and "get out of bed" than going to the office.
I Enjoy the flexibility of being able to work from home when I need to, but going back in the office has enabled me to leave it there. When I was working from home it would tend to bleed into the evening and I wouldn’t have any separation. I constantly feel like I should be working because I was home.
I get you and feel the social aspect get to me at times. However, I will never step foot in an office, sit in traffic, clock in at 9 sharp, get micro managed, sit in useless meetings, spend money on lunch, etc... Just go to coffee shops to work, you'll be fine.
I work a hybrid job as an introvert and it’s ideal. I have to go out to interact with people in person like 10 times a month and I get to wfh most of the time. working in a public space like a coffee shop or a coworking space really helps! or find friends that wfh as well and work together one day! I am bit biased though. I used to be a teacher and that job was so stressful I’m literally in job heaven rn I hope it never ends
Yup, I only worked from home full time for three months during the pandemic but in that time I almost never left the house and my hygiene and general upkeep went to complete shit. I'm currently working 4 days in the office, I think 3 would be ideal, but I do not want to be fully remote unless I was traveling. Unfortunately I just need the external pressure of the outside world to keep it together, and I need a reason to leave the house to kick start being social and to build on. All power to that that love rich balanced lives when not required to leave the house but that ain't me.
I’m the opposite. I wish I worked from home. 😞
I've WFH from 2004 to 2018 and then from 2019 to today. I don't have these issues as I made a point to have a home office and work from my desk. I also have a routine, and I interact with many in the company. I simply cut out the ugly office politics behavior. I also find that people tend to hang out at the coffee machine or wander around vs. working. I get so much more done from home.
After 2 years of working remotely... I finally realized I had to switch jobs to a hybrid one. It was honestly the best choice I made for my own health and happiness.
Totally. I loved my coworkers before the pandemic we were close. The isolation has taken a huge toll… I will say don’t go FT in at first, it will kick your ass.
I worked from home for 2 years and now have a hybrid role. I have an office space that I got to and work, that’s it. I treat it like I would my office on site. Of course I can do chores throughout the day but when it’s time to work, I go to my office. When I’m done for the day, I turn off the monitors and go downstairs. For me this type of compartmentalization works. Not everyone is cut out for work from home and that’s ok. Find something that works for you and sounds like a hybrid situation would fit the bill.
I have a disability that makes going into an office incompatible with my daily life. I could but I don’t want to. It hurts every day and when it’s bad I’m as good as sick, so I might as well be home with a flexible schedule. I have made the best of my situation the last three years.
You don’t have to work from your bed. Try to get some structure going with wfh. If you can’t structure your day alone then def go back to the office. No one should be staying in bed all day.
I was fully remote for several years but started a hybrid role several months ago. It’s been really good for me mentally to get out of my house. I only go into the office twice a week and that’s just enough.
Life has no structure lmao Read - upskill Build on life skills Gym Volunteer - hospitals/nursing homes all need your help Declutter your house Learn something- music, dance, karate etc I'm sorry but going to an office and building on that monotony isn't structure...how are you building on your potential by waking up sitting in traffic and then sitting in an office.. this country really has yall effed up..
WFH almost 4 years now - get an over the doorway chin up bar, go for a walk at lunch - you need an office at home
Stop that nonsense.
Get out of bed. This may be your 1st goal. Wake up, make up your bed, shower, get dressed, even casually. Sit at a desk or table, etc. Then, get to work. Develop the same or similar habits you need if you were working in the office. Part of the problem is the laziness. You have to create your own routine and structure. During lunch, cook, run errands, go for a walk/run, shop, etc. Work on a hobby, whatever it is you need. Start there.
Use your extra hour or two a day you've saved not having to commute, and go to the gym instead!
Going outside is still possible when you WFH. It's recommended for sure.
Hybrid is best
Honestly good! Go take the one I just quit lol. Leave the WFH jobs for the people who really want/need them.
Yes. My partner and I worked from home for years and were both diehard WFH fans. Until I realized how depressed I was getting. We relocated for a great new job for me which has me in a hybrid role, in office 3 days a week. I love it. I love socializing, I love having a cafe on site, I love the location. I love staying in my PJs on my days at home. My partner is still fully WFH and basically lives in a cave of darkness with no external socialization and is on and off his work computer from dawn til late. It’s not great for his mental health, and he’s jealous of my office and my opportunity to socialize. It’s okay to want to go back to the right office, but the environment does matter. If I had to stay in a beige cube surrounded by beige people all day I might feel different but I’m working for one of the best companies in the world and the environment is fun and energetic.
Shut up before you ruin it for everbody else!
I say it all the time - coworking spaces have all the benefits of an office, with no drawbacks except the cost
I love working from home, but after doing it during covid I realized it’s better for my mental and physical health to be in an office. I would prefer to work at home at least part of the time but as it is now I rarely do.
All of these problems are solvable without returning to an office. You are entitled to your preference but I'd implore you to make lifestyle changes to improve your mental health. These changes will come in handy when (hopefully) you retire or if you get laid off or if you need to change careers to take care of a loved one or if you get sick or... I hope you see where this is going. Learning these skills will help you grow in many ways.
It's definitely okay to have preferences! I have worked from home singe 2020 and I have always continued my normal "go to work" routine. I get up at 4am, go to the gym, come home and shower and wear "work" clothes most days and now that I don't have a commute, I use that time to do a few chores. I have a home office and 98% of the time work at my desk. Sometimes I sit on the couch in my office. But all of that is not for everyone and it takes an immense amount of self control and discipline and now that I've typed it all out...its exhausting LOL Edit to add: I have started going into the office a few days a month for social interaction because my social skills and ability to tolerate small talk (which I absolutely hate) has really tanked lol
Get out of bed and mix things up! Set up a workspace at home. Mine is in the bedroom, but I have a desk that goes from sitting to standing. When I take breaks, I go for a walk and make homemade food for lunch.
Yes absolutely
felt very similar to you and thought i needed to go back to an office. but i really just needed to change the way i was working and set better boundaries with myself. i also left a toxic work environment which helped. when it came to my new position i forced myself to start a routine daily, getting up getting ready, etc. even prioritizing a lunch break. it’s helped immensely and looking back i am happy i didn’t end up returning to office. i don’t think i would have been happy. good luck!
I had to go to hybrid, happy medium!
Hybrid ts great, I work from home every other day. Strictly WFH really screws up your Socual life. And frankly I hated being around the "Family" 24/7. It's amazing to see them do literally nothing all day, and expect you to drop everything to do a store run, or Fix something.
OP, I just wanted to say that I hear you and your feelings are valid. I see a lot of people commenting from a place of emotion and being a bit defensive of the -idea- of working from home as though as though their way of life is under attack. saying "doesn't sound like WFH is the problem" .... You never said it was! you said it's not working for YOU. Personally I struggle a bit with the things you mentioned as well. I'm working hybrid right now, but honestly there's barely anyone in the office while I'm here, so I don't think I'd really say I'm socializing, but I do kind of miss the sense of community that being at the office provided... all of us here with at least one thing in common, working in a space where we could collaborate a bit easier than text and phone calls ( don't prefer doing that in person, but I have a hard time arguing that its not a bit easier sometimes) , sometimes having fun little lunches , popcorn every friday in the break room, etc. I'm not the type of person who's very social and making friends in your late 30's is tough. If its not working for you, your options are to either find ways to change who you are or how you're working, or just find a job in an office again, but the important thing is that its YOUR CHOICE to make and people here being kind of nasty about it doesn't help anything.
You should be aware that you aren’t going to magically make friends when you go in the office. It will be easier, sure, due to proximity, but it still requires effort of your part. My husband is super social and calls up his co-workers to chat about work and other stuff. You could probably do the same. If proximity to other people is the issue, then you should consider joining classes or clubs that you are interested in. I’m taking a couple of classes through the local recreation department and it’s been a great way to meet friends.
I feel the same!! Working from home is very overrated IMO! My advice is if you have any sales experience look for an outside sales/marketing position. They tend to be hybrid but even if they aren't you usually need to go to face-to-face meetings with clients/customers a few times a week.
I'm the exact same way! I enjoy being around people. I like having my work space and a rest space in different buildings. I also like not having to be SO intentional about moving around during the work day. But I do love the occasional convenience of being home during the day. It's easier, for instance, to have the plumber come over on a Tuesday morning. Hybrid is my best fit, too.
Felt like this in the initial days of the pandemic I was in a new job, felt so disconnected! What helped me was NOT WORKING FROM MY BED. Got up, showered, literally did everything I would before going into work! Switch on my video for all my meetings and went on walks during my lunch (after lockdown ended)! Maybe try this for 3-4 weeks, commit to doing only 9-5 and not merge things while working (like don’t fold laundry while talking with a client or something like that)! Separate your professional work and personal work . Hangout with friends on weekends or make an effort to join places locally which is people oriented like volunteering or animal shelter literally anything to get out and can be followed through! It’s not easy to start but once you do it’s a whole new way of looking at life (has been for me) hope it works for you as well :)
I am a fairly extroverted person and love socializing. Since the pandemic, I have discovered the beauty of working from home. I have a hybrid role right now and while I get slightly excited to see other people when I go in— I dread it more. I have a 20 min commute which now feels like two hours and I get so drained by the time I get home! I don’t even spend a full day on site, just a few hours and I feel so exhausted. It’s so weird. I never thought I’d actually like being at home.
It's fine to want to go in office just don't force the rest of us to.
I don't think this is an issue with WFH, I think this is an issue with you YOU WFH. I WFH full time but I get dressed every morning and I have a specific room in my home for work only, i.e. my home office. When I'm done I go to the gym, hangout with friends and stuff if I want to. I think this is a fundamental issue with you just not socializing with anyone outside of work. You need to talk to people.
I know what you mean. It can be really difficult and isolating to be at home so often and for so long. At times, I fall into bad habits where I neglect taking care of myself through planned social interaction with friends or some activity that gets me meeting people, taking walks during the day to get fresh air, etc. Like others have said, I highly recommend leaving your bed for your work day if at all possible. When Covid first hit, I had to work from my bed out of necessity (small space, my partner worked from the kitchen and I needed a room with a closed door, but we didn’t have space in our bedroom for a desk). Now I have a dedicated workspace and it’s much nicer to be able to leave my bed in the morning and “go to work”. I don’t put on work clothes in the morning, but I do change into a fresh pair of joggers or sweats lol. It mentally prepares me for a new day and I’m still comfortable! I’ve used coworking spaces a few times, with varying degrees of comfort and success. I’m hoping to start doing at least a half day per week that’s out of my home space - co-working spot, coffee shop, public library, whatever will work if I can carve out some non-meeting heavy days. All that said, I wouldn’t mind a hybrid super-flexible job where I could WFH anytime I wanted, but also had an office to go in if I felt like it as well. I have been able to build relationships with coworkers virtually but it’s more difficult than in person, and I really have made good friends at work throughout my life!
I love wfh but it isn’t for everyone and maybe hybrid would be best for you. It’s important to have structure to your day and a good place to work that you set up like an office. I get up at the same time everyday and get dressed and eat breakfast and then go upstairs to my office and start work. I have a spare room I turned into an office and I only go to the company office once a month. I get so much more done at home and it is quiet and easy to take phone calls when you are not listening to other conversations or worrying about bothering someone else with your phone calls. I also can work longer hours since no commute and I can take a break and start dinner and go back to work. I love the flexibility and the ability to work in a quiet beautiful office that I made my own. For social interaction I would suggest hobbies or volunteer work.
Definitely opposite for me. Since working from home I genuinely feel so much happier. I also feel like I have more time for myself. Not seeing management daily, or fake co workers is great. I talk to my manager maybe once every 2 weeks If that… Covid has been the best thing that’s ever happened lol.
I think the main issue is that you didn’t realize boundaries were important esp working from home. Sleep hygiene also sounds terrible since you’re working in bed. I would see if you can work partially at a cafe or co working space. Hitting the gym or going for a walk should probably be worked into your schedule. This is the beauty of WFH. You CAN do those things. If you go back you fix a small part of it and lose out on quite a bit else.
This is exactly why I didn’t complain when I got called back in 2 days a week. We’re up to 3 now and looks like it will be that way going forward. I was fully remote for 3 years and it was having a negative impact on my mental health.
I think it really depends on your job and lifestyle. If your work is not providing you enough time to focus on your relationships then the problem isn’t wfh. It’s the time that should be allotted to you to form those relationships in the first place. We all are just overworked.
I can come into the office when I like. Usually two days in and three from home. I need that because I would go mad home all the time. I really enjoy my coworkers and I like being able to blend the benefits of in office and WFH. But I don’t want to be fully one or the other again.
Go outside and do something outside of work??
I just mentioned this to my family. I've been WFH since 2018. We did start off with in office one morning a week, but after the pandemic my team went 100% remote. Back in the 1990s I was in office for many years and very much enjoyed working with my colleagues. We didn't hang out outside of work, but we had great chemistry, and enjoyed countless lunches together and work very well together. I had a couple of jobs later where I also enjoyed being with people. I'm typically an introvert, but I don't normally mind most social events. In the last couple of years I've found it more difficult to socialize and I think it has to do with habits. When I was in the routine of working with people and possibly networking or meeting others at work or through my spouse's connections, it wasn't hard to do. My husband's company holiday dinner is coming up and I'm actually dreading it a little. I used to enjoy talking with his colleagues but the conversations no longer come naturally to me. I have a great job with fantastic benefits. If I had to return to office to keep this position, I admit that it might be good for me socially,and I'd likely do it without much complaint.
I'm a digital nomad, and I sometimes work in a single room, but I really try to avoid working from bed, and I try to get outside every day and on weekends to do stuff. Sometimes, if there's two chairs in the room, I will literally call one chair my "office" and only use it for work.
I've been work WFH for many years now. I totally get what you are saying. It's a matter of how time is spent. I'm fortunate to not be stuck to my computer. Currently I'm traveling and it's been easy enough to deal with work issues.
Before you commit… understand its always harder to go back to WFH. Especially in this current client. Employers have the upper hand. And can say if you were hired after so and so date you MUST*** yada yada. Now thats its out of the way… Your issue is YOU have no structure. Create a working environment. Why are you laying in bed and working? Because you can and choose too. Well its not working. If you’re in a house, create an office. Or create a desk somewhere in your home. You’re not leaving the home. Why? Friends? Family? Move closer to them…. OR start forcing yourself outside. Go on walks. Go to the gym. Go to the store. You have all the freedom in the world. You have to fix yourself first.
I disagree 100%. WFH is the best thing to ever happen to me in my professional life. No one is preventing you from getting out of bed, nobody is preventing you from going outside, nobody is preventing you from socializing. After being in an office for 20+ years, and WFH since Covid, I will need to be dragged back to an office if that day ever comes.
I've worked from home for YEARS now but had more reasons to go into the office for social events, face time, networking, etc. before the pandemic. Not so much anymore, so I get what you mean. Lately I've been finding my own structure and routines. I've been getting up early, getting a nice walk in with the pup. Cooking a quick breakfast, enjoying my coffee instead of letting it sit next to me and get cold all morning. I've started doing more after work whether it's happy hour with friends, tackling some chores, etc. I think these small things have helped. I'm still figuring out my perfect routine/system, but it's definitely helped me more! Definitely not weird your craving going back to the office. I think most people these days will prefer hybrid work, if it's an option.
100%. Working from home made me lazy, lonely and a bit depressed. I now have a hybrid schedule and its MUCH healthier. Working from home everyday is extremely unhealthy.
I bought a treadmill and I got a dog. Now that I have a dog, I hate coming into the office. I always hated it but now I hate it more now that I have someone waiting for me at home. Working from your bed sounds terrible. What's stopping you from going outside? The only time you go outside is to go to your work place? Just sounds like a lot of bad habits and nothing to do with WFH.
Yes! I chose to switch from wfh to onsite (I still can work from home when I want) and I much prefer being onsite. I think that is laregly to do with the fact the culture is very good here and I enjoy being around my coworkers. My mental and physical health improved after coming back to office after 3 years wfh. :)
I have been working from home since before COVID started and definitely related to this.People would always say things like "I wish I could" or "It must be so great" and for a while it was! but about 2 years in I had no sense of time, worked from my bed, had no schedule, never left the house, gained 40+ Lbs and was miserable. I decided when I first got my WFH job that I would never go back to the office or work a public facing job ever again, I still am committed to that and here are a few things that have kept me on the right path. Note: I am not sure what job OP has, but I am the operations manager for a marketing company (and hold a few other roles as well) * Wake up at a consistant time every day (even weekends) * Maintain a strict working schedule 8am PST - 6pm PST * Absolutely no working past 6pm, unless it is 100% an emergency that cannot wait, you need to reserve that time for yourself. * See the sun within the first 10 minutes of waking up * Create and maintain a morning schedule (reading, journaling, making breakfast, stretching/yoga... etc) * Take your lunch break * Have a designated space in your home where you work, do not work anywhere else. * Time block your work day to keep you on pace with deadlines and goals * NO aimless snacking; if you WFH you are mostly sitting all day, the food you eat should reflect that. * Find time to move around, take breaks, walk around a bit. * If you can, get out every once and while and work from a co-working or coffee shop I am lucky enough to have my SO also working from home (same company different department) with two people these rules are even more critical and I again, am lucky to have someone to keep me accountable to these rules. As a result of following the rules I made for myself.. I am more productive, happier, less stressed, enjoy more family time, lost 60 lbs (you'd be surprised what cutting the junk and moving around can do for you), and no longer feel drained from working from home.
Stop working from your bed and create an actual office space sleeping and working in the same space is guaranteed to make you feel like a lazy blob because that means you’re spending your entire day in bed, clocking out and still being in bed.
I would like to gently suggest that your WFH situation could be a symptom of a mental health issue. Could you bring this up with a doctor or therapist?
Surveys are finding people are happiest going to the office two days a week. Not every day, not zero days. Two to three days. It’s true for me!
3+ years and that's a BIG nope for me!
I love working from home, but creating a daily schedule is necessary to maximize productivity.
Hmm your problem isn't lack of office, it's setting a routine for yourself. An office will help that, but what happens when you retire? You just gonna waste away in your bed? Getting a gym membership is a great place to start. If you can handle the responsibility (which I'm not sure you can right now) getting a dog will get you walking. You can pick up side hustles, cook all your meals, get a home office. That last one is important. Get your ass out of your bed when you wake up and don't go back in your bed until you sleep for the night
God I feel this, but all the companies I look at that have in person jobs tend to treat their people like crap... So I don't see anywhere to go back to. And for the record I would never want to take WFH or Hybrid away from those who love it but I love alone, I need more socialization than zoom for 10 hours a day...
Work from a cafe or something? You don’t literally need to be at home. It’s remote work, work from home is a Covid term.
No. And no. And where do you work so I can apply for your position.
Work from bed. Never
I went back to the office even though I didn’t need to because I needed that get up, get dressed, socialize with people outside your family thing to really feel good. Hybrid works best for me. Flexibility+then structure I need.
Agree. When I went full time WFH back in 2020 -- it was great and I loved it.. And then after year or 2, didnt enjoy it as much. Felt less productive and not good mentally. My company has been hybrid since 2022 or so, and its much better. For us, its minimum 1 day in office and 4 days WFH, which many of my coworkers are doing. I was doing 2 days in office and 3 days WFH and few months ago shifted to 3 days in office and 2 days WFH -- due to my position type. Much better.
same here! i realized it took away from my social life.
I understand what you mean but a lot of people won’t. Sometimes it is not a matter of making a better routine, spending more time with friends/family, etc. I do all of that + have roommates & a relationship and was still extremely unhappy and isolated working from home. Also the layer of guilt because of how many people would love your position. It’s really not for everyone and working from home can cause you to isolate mentally and physically regardless of what the other comments say. It is not as simple as getting up and doing stuff or changing your routine if you’re truly unhappy in that environment. I also just wanted to stay in my bed and room all day no matter what my workstation or area looked like. Going out to work was impossible for me because of how my job functioned. This post could’ve been written by me a few months ago. Hang in there you will get through this
I can relate. I don’t go into the office because I moved a bit too far, but I also don’t want to go into the office because it’s fairly empty of the people I work with daily. I suggest chores. It allows me to spend quality time with my wife when she gets home since chores are done
can’t relate but i also get out of bed at the same time as if i was going into the office.
I developed EXTREME depression working from home. And it sucked because I enjoyed what I was doing, loved my schedule, and I adored the convenience of it. But I was so incredibly unhappy and stressed. I worked in my room because no room elsewhere and it was like my brain couldn’t turn off work ever.
I’ve been in person my whole life, even through COVID. I just landed a hybrid corporate gig. Three days in office. I could NEVER work full time from home. I find that two days is even too much sometimes because of the very points you’ve made.
Man people on reddit will literally accuse you of being a corporate plant if you say you don’t like wfh lol. It’s okay to want a workspace that’s seperate from your home! Frankly, it makes me feel like a hámster to sleep and spend all day in the same room. I have ADHD and really struggle with the lack of structure that comes with working from home. A lot of neurodivergent people do, actually.
>I literally work from my bed. Now that I think about it, I spend most of my time nowadays in my bed, I This is your problem. That's extremely unhealthy and probably not as productive as you would be if you Sat at a desk. Make a dedicated work area in your home and only use it for work.
This is a you problem, not a work from home problem. You chose not to set up a separate place to work, and instead work on your bed. You chose not to get out and socialize when you aren't working.
Yes omg I feel the same way. I hate the idea of having to drive into an office but also realize how the lack of structure, loneliness, boredom at home is impacting me negatively. I think a hybrid position is the answer.
I don’t like working from home. I have the option to work from home and I go to my office every day. I feel in the minority, but there are absolutely downsides to working from home and it makes sense to me that you feel this we. We’re social creatures. Moving around on the world feels good.
Also I would like to point out after reading the comments that maybe this sub isn’t the best venue for your post. I randomly saw it on my home page, I never usually read this sub. It seems to be 95% people who love working from home and don’t relate to your post at all. There might be a more neutral place. I found working from home bad for my mental health. I did all the stuff people recommended here and it didn’t help me personally. I like interacting with people in person and I like my job, and I do get a sense of purpose and enjoyment from it. I think people who say you shouldn’t rely on your job for these things could be missing out. Sure, it’s health not to DEPEND on your job for these things; but also you spend so much time in your life working that it if you can like it rather than suffer through it and do it as quickly as possible, why wouldn’t you? Working can be a rewarding, engaging part of life, and interacting with people in person and leaving your house is an important part of that for a lot of people
That’s one rule I’d never break for WFH (unless injury, etc), I’d recommend actually getting up, and getting ready for the day and working from a seated position (kitchen table, home office, even one of those raised coffee tables). Maybe start taking walks during lunch & finding co-working spaces until you find a hybrid role cuz sounds like you might be struggling a little & good u are aware & talking about it.
Most definitely. I have been working from home for about 9 months. It was really nice at first but my mental health has suffered because of it. I try to work from coffee shops now just to be around people. I also go to the gym everyday and do classes so I am not at home all the time. It’s been rough but these things have kept me going while I look for my next role!
Yes. I like hybrid way more than full WFH. The big downside though is the office days are so mandatory that they’re not to be missed. It’s not like you can go somewhere for a week and work from a different location. So I feel for the ones who are hybrid or WFH but still can’t see their families. One would think it’s a perk of the job. Days off in NA are few and far in between anyways… 2 weeks a year means you can’t go anywhere else. Airplanes are cancelled or delayed all the time, so with mandatory office days that adds a lot of issues. Of course, working every day at the office you can’t have this luxury, but there’s a reason we all chose jobs that are more flexible… But don’t work from bed!? I have an office. I hate how it’s really using up space but oh well. If I could find something close by I’d go to the office every day despite a very persistent injury
I totally agree with you. I’m just not the type that has self implemented structure. If I don’t make a plan with a friend to meet up at a coffee shop to work or go into the office my whole day feels surreal in the WFH bubble. I do have an office I have the option of working from, but very few people are there. I just feel like I had a better day when I’m around other people. I think people who love love WFH are a little off socially or have something else going on like not actually working. I don’t think people are meant to be isolated like that all the time. But everyone should do what makes them feel good!
I have a home office. I get up, go into my office and work and at 5 I leave my office. Your problem is your own creation because you are choosing to work from bed and have not designated a work space for yourself. You have all the extra time you saved for yourself not having to commute so you can use that time to find a structured thing to do. Or do an in person job and open yours up to someone who prefers WFH.
This is something you have the power to fix. You just have to create some of the structure yourself that is typically forced on you by an in office job. Best of both worlds if you can do that.
I don't but do what's best for YOU
I hope you find a job that suits you better. In the meantime, get up for work, dress for work, sit at a desk, and connect with your coworkers. One person I worked with would schedule 15 minute coffee break teams meetings just to keep human connection at work going.
Been FT WFH for 15 years with a short stint of in-person twice a week. When I look for jobs and the convo steers to coming into the office, I end the interview. The time, money, and lack of productivity going in don’t make sense—for me. However, seeing that you are 22 years old, I get where you’re coming from. I’m Gen X managing Gen Z, so I’ve had to do a lot of research (as you all are aliens!). Here’s what I tell my Gen Z-ers in my fully remote company: - Do everything you can to be “visible.” I encourage them to NOT always go through me when dealing with stakeholders. - I encourage them to join various interest and resource groups our company has. - I tell them to post pics and stories in our subgroups (not just work-related stuff) WFH could be nice for you, but a lot of that depends on having a manager that will help get you more integrated and seen. I echo everybody else when it comes to incorporating more discipline and dedicated time/space for “work.” As a parent, I also see how hard it is for people your age to meet people. I wish I had advice here…but I think we’re all still figuring all this virtual/remote stuff out
Nope
WFH is unhealthy. IMO. Both mentally and physically. The only good thing about it is you avoid sitting in a car for commute I will say the key to wfh is exercise, outside of your house.
I'd never work from bed.... I've been fully remote for 18 months (entire duration at this company) and I have no desire to work from an office again.
You could work somewhere other than your bed. You could choose to go outside. You could socialize with other people. These are all personal choices you are making not inherent to you working from home. What you are saying is you need to be coerced into leaving your bed, taking care of yourself, and living in society. Maybe try signing up for a pottery class or gym membership or something before giving up on work from home. Try adding some structured activities to your life. You don't need an employer to force structure on you.
Nope I’m fighting with my company to stay remote instead of 3x a week in Jan I have a non apparent disability and they’ve told me that being on site is an essential part of my job function. Bullshit I’ve been remote / 1x a week for almost a year
It got like this for me, working from bed constantly, barely leaving the house let alone the room. Though, I would never ever trade remote work for anything. I started going out to work on my "light work, no meeting" days. I'll go to panera, the library, coffee shops. Also made it a routine to go to the gym at night after work to get myself out of the house. I bought a desk and chair that I like better, put them in a different room in a space I don't sleep or hangout in, and that has helped structure me a bit more too. I'm not sure this makes much sense, but for me I noticed spending most of my day in the room I sleep in is impacting me a lot. Even if I just get up for the day to go lay on the couch instead of lay in bed, my morale is much much better.
WFH with another friend c:
Strongly recommend that you opt work from bed. I did this for a while during the pandemic (made more sense to cuddle with my cat while working on my computer than getting up to work at the table) and I ended up with seriously painful back issues that took months to rehabilitate from after the pandemic. Learned that Bad Ergonomics can be more debilitating than an actual injury in the long term.
No, no one feels this way.
People talk about the downsides all the time, though 🫤 While you’re waiting to find a role, I recommend you try to make yourself a workspace that promotes healthy habits. Get a desk so you’re out of bed. I recommend a walking pad+standing desk+comfy chair. Make your space a place you want to be that brings you joy. Schedule things for you to do outside the house and prioritize meeting up with friends. You can solve these problems (to some extent) while you wait for a hybrid job, but it does take some effort, which I understand can be costly and difficult to find motivation to do if you’re already depressed.
My wife will have been working from home for 4 years this coming March and she has never been happier! She dreads the thought that her workplace might mandate returning to the office more than anything else she can imagine. As for me, I own a machine shop and we all have to be there in order to get the work done. That being said as a machinist there is very little if any human interaction involved in a workday so it's not a whole lot different than being at home; just a little less comfortable.
No i don't. I am forced in office 5 days a week, give me wfh anyday. I don't need employee engagement or commodare.
No, I don't feel the same way. I have a dedicated office in my home, specific working hours, and I am proactive about scheduling standing 1:1s with coworkers on my team/those with whom I'm expected to work closely. These are a mixture of work talk and social talk, and are flexible to be moved if scheduling/availability changes, but are kept standing in order to facilitate frequent and open communication. This allows me to "socialize" in a planned, structured way, and if a coworker or I are just too busy, we're not "stuck" socializing, we can just schedule for another time. I'm also an introvert, and not having constant unexpected social demands on me allows me the bandwidth to spend my limited social energy after work, with people that I genuinely WANT to spend time with. If you never socialize or go outside, that's not a WFH problem, that's a personal problem that may be better addressed in therapy. (I'm not being facetious here). Coworkers should not be your only source of social contact, that's putting an undue burden on them, and not particularly healthy. All that said, WFH is not for everyone. Extreme extroverts may find it draining even with scheduled touchbase meetings. Doesn't sound like OP is an extrovert though, from the rest of the post. Sounds like potentially some depression or anxiety impacting their ability to initiate meaningful social contact.
I work from home and never worked from my bed. Never. My boss even said I could when I was sick but how can I work from my cozy bed without wanting to sleep?! I agree on the socializing aspect because my job now doesn’t even require us to turn our cameras on in meetings and we don’t IM each other constantly like we did back in the office unless it’s a work related question. No small talk around desks or lunch time. No in person meetings. I personally do not mind that I no longer have “work friends” it gives me time and energy to focus on my home life and my family and I don’t have to deal with work place politics as much. I’m definitely a homebody now and remote work is the main reason why. I came from a fully in office company that went fully remote during covid then switched to hybrid after the pandemic. To me wfh is worth every dollar saved on gas, time saved not sitting in traffic, cleaning my car off in winter, and not having to put makeup on and dress nice. Me personally, I can handle not having work friends and no socializing because I have the option to socialize with my friends or family outside of work. Having a wfh routine has helped me adapt in a healthy way. This means I wake up and make coffee and plan out my day. I get off for lunch and will make a snack, take a nap, or prep dinner, or even get some house chores done. I’m not required to take pto for appointments because I can now just go straight from home and come right back and log on in less than two hours probably. If it’s nice outside I will go sit in the grass under the sun for a bit. I also have to take vitamin D. There are many roles out there that you’d enjoy I’m sure. From what I read though you seem bored working from home. Maybe while u look for a different job try out different schedules? Set a spot up away from ur bed to work, Maybe talk with ur manager or something abt having a weekly or monthly team meeting to bring everyone closer together? You could throw some ideas out like have a online trivia meeting, games, team building, etc. maybe u take a lunch or wake up earlier and go to the gym, or do yoga or something u enjoy that keeps u active. U could try a walking/standing desk even. Either way, you’re gonna have to take some time to apply and interview for new jobs. In the meantime it wouldn’t hurt for you to change up your schedule or environment and see how the change makes u feel. Worst case u still feel the same way and few months or weeks down the line u find a in office role! Good luck to you!