How to Work from Home Without Losing Your Mind

Most of the people I have contact with daily, I've never met, don't know what they look like, and couldn't tell you what kind of fashion sense they have. I never thought I'd miss my annoying and grouchy co-workers, but I'm finding a negative side effect to telecommuting: loneliness.

Sometimes, I'll go a few days without leaving the house. Pent up on a writing or working spree, I'll wake up and realize I haven't had a regular conversation in 24 hours. All of my contact has been through the keyboard, and maybe a text message or two.

Not falling victim to the work from home blues takes work. I've set up an attack plan to combat the occupational hazards of working from home.

I started a blog. I didn't find a great gathering place for people like me. So I started www.teletwenties.com. A place for 20 something telecommuters to gather and offer support. I also found I really enjoyed interaction with telecommuters from all walks of life.

I recruited a real life friend to joining me on my telecommuting journey. Of course many people were interested when I told me real-life friends about my work from home journey. I recruited one into my main position as a quality rater, and have found several other people part-time work at home jobs so we can go through the highs and lows together.

I visit several forums filled with other telecommuters.

Started reaching out to friends and family much more by making daily phone calls. I make it a habit to make at least one lunch or dinner date a week. While my friends are often caught up in their work lives, I've explained to them my working from home blues and asked for their help in getting me out of the home office.

I joined a gym. Exercise seems to be the answer for about any health related problem, including getting the blues. Not only are the endorphins good for my lonliness, but getting out of the house a few times a week also helps.

I started volunteering my time. Again, a great way to force myself out of the house. And, because I spend less time in the car everyday driving to work, I have the time to spare. Find a cause that fits you. A dog lover? Head down the local animal shelter. Love visiting with your elders? Adopt a grandparent at the retirement home.