The concept of staying at home to work has an immediate appeal
to prospective teleworkers, as visions of hassle-free, dressed-down,
low-interruption workdays come to mind. But many find the realities
of telecommuting a bit less satisfying.
One
challenge, surprising to even the most flaming of introverts, is
the innate human need for social interaction. Yes, to the non-socializers,
being able to be alone with one's thoughts and computer has immense
appeal. Extended periods of uninterrupted concentration is necessary
for those involved in high creativity/precision activities such
as software design and programming, graphics design, writing, and
accounting. The ability to "be in the flow" is essential for productivity
and quality.
But
when it comes time to come up for air, it's important to have other
human beings with whom to interact. There is an undeniable camaraderie
that develops when working within a team. Think for a moment about
some of the most satisfying and rewarding work experiences you ever
had. What made them memorable? Was it the technology? Was it how
much you got paid? Chances are, your fond memories arise not so
much from what you did as with whom you did it - the team chemistry,
the charisma of your leader, the social events that accompanied
your achievement.
Loneliness
and depression can creep up on you as a home based worker. What
are some of the symptoms? You tend to initiate and sustain more
conversations than ever before. You tend to to drop by friends and
colleagues in person, instead of calling them on the phone. You
experience periodic wistfulness about not being included in "water
cooler discussions". Increasing resentment when your phone calls
and email messages are not promptly responded to. Increased stress
and irritibility. Decreased motivation. Spending less and less time
"in the flow". Difficulties sleeping. Feelings of being overwhelmed.
Loss of appetite for food or sex. Depression. Burnout.
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Copyright © 2000 Telework Connection
[David Zacharias is Editor of Telework Connection, an e-zine and web site
( http://telework-connection.com)
focused on examining alternative work arrangements in the Information
Age, including telecommuting, freelancing, and other remote work
arrangements. Mr. Zacharias always welcomes comments on this article,
or telework issues in general. He can be reached at tc-editor@telework-connection.com]
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