The Advantages of an Office Community

Office life is a social microcosm that repeats itself on a daily basis. But within that microcosm, there are important social needs fulfilled. There’s a sense of calming predictability to the work. You get to know different people with their own needs and responsibilities. You’ll be confronted with new experiences and unexpected skills. You’re forced out of your comfort zone to socialize, be it in the cafeteria or at the water cooler. You discover shared interests with your fellow employees and build relationships that could save your back later on. The coffee shop office lifestyle isn’t for everyone, after all.

For any freelancer or remote worker, the idea of a 9-to-5 job might be horrifying. Why give up the self-imposed work hours, the freedom to work from home, and the flexibility for the hustle and bustle of an office? Well, because it’s hurting your efficiency.

Any solopreneur will tell you how easy it is to lock yourself off from the world. When this happens, you’re missing out on vital social, recreational and career-focused perks. So if you’re prone to having work-related loneliness stifle your productivity, it’s time to join communities that can get you back on track. By the end of this article, you’ll see exactly why freelancers need communities to take themselves to the next level.

The Freedom of Coworking Spaces

Co-working spaces let you cherry pick the perks of office life without taking away your freedom. You enjoy the social aspects without anchoring yourself to some contract. Co-working spaces make it very easy to network. Their on-location business events are a great place to find clients and build relationships. You’ll also be able to find like-minded people to converse with, or start your own little group of business focused freelancers. If you keep a sharp focus, you’ll be opening doors to new clients, partners, mentors, and business opportunities.

Local Communities, Online and Offline

Co-working spaces and business events can make it easy to network. But, these communities are work focused and offline only. Seeking out more recreational focused communities can relieve stress, expand your skill set, and help any overworked soul socialize about topics that aren’t work. Thanks to websites such as Meetup, it’s never been easier to find events and gatherings happening in your area. Pick the meetup that speaks to you and you’ll find plenty of people with shared interests. Why not take a stab at painting, learn an instrument together, or join a book club?

Online communities, as well, can serve both a work and recreational purpose. Seek out communities of other remote workers on forums such as Reddit. You can even build your own Slack group with digital nomads you’ve met already.

Allow yourself to blow off some steam, socially, with people who understand your worries and frustrations. Online communities come with an added bonus: people from all over the world can join and interact together. These new points of view can change the way you think about your problems, both in your job and your life.

Work and Life, In Balance

Finding the balance between work and recreational communities is paramount. Isolating yourself from the world impedes work efficiency. But having all your time occupied with frivolous company could do even more damage. Find the communities that will help you stay on top of your game. And remember, it’s not just about work, it’s about your well being.