On and off for the last several years I’ve worked by telecommuting, which is a widespread modern phenomenon since proliferation of the internet. Some of the advantages include; avoiding rush hour traffic, more flexible use of your work and leisure time, and working from home.

The biggest disadvantage is.. working from home! I teach interpersonal communication skills, and anyone who has telecommuted for a prolonged period of time will agree that the lack of social interaction can actually become depressing. While I don’t miss working in a cubicle I do miss the social office environment.

A few days ago I was posting on some technology message board when I stumbled upon a post from a guy who said he was so lonely working from his home office. He said that although he makes really good money, he spends on average 9 hours a day in a little room, with nobody to talk to, and the loneliness was really getting to him. [Read more…]