Imagine starting your workday feeling isolated despite being surrounded by the most connective technology ever created. For many employees, this is a reality. A staggering 20 percent of employees experience daily loneliness, a phenomenon more pronounced among people under 35 and remote workers.
Loneliness is more than an emotional burden; it has severe implications for physical and mental health. Social isolation doubles the risk of mortality, making it crucial to understand and mitigate loneliness as the workforce becomes increasingly remote. As leaders, we must rise to this challenge, implementing measures to foster a more connected and supportive work environment that ensures future success.
In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General released a report highlighting the loneliness epidemic, a concern significantly amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. That was the first time many people truly felt the impact of isolation. The workplace, traditionally a social environment, has not been immune given the rise of remote work. Employees may find it difficult to discuss personal matters due to the fear of sparking disagreements or crossing unwritten social boundaries.
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