Tips on Working Alone
Being part of a group decreases the chances of risks and hazards compared to those who work solo. Because they lack assistance, solo workers are more susceptible to workplace violence and accidents. This is particularly true for those working overnight shifts. Although, there are steps employers and employees can take to safeguard staff who work by themselves.
Keep in contact with your employerIt is crucial to stay in touch with your company when working independently. This way you not only ensure your safety but also maintain peace of mind. Whether it's a quick chat with a co-worker or letting your superior know where you're headed, staying connected will help prevent feelings of isolation and disconnection from the team.
Take regularly scheduled breaksIf you're overworking yourself, it will only lead to unhappiness. To keep your thoughts together and stay focused throughout the day, take some regular breaks – even if it's just for ten minutes with a cup of tea.
Structure your dayWithout the support of an office or workplace, it can be tough to stay motivated when working by yourself. To counter this issue, you should try creating a set structure for yourself. Even though you might not have to commute or dress up for work, it's important to structure your day as if you had a traditional job. Get up at the same time each morning, eat breakfast and get dressed. It may be tempting to stay in your pajamas all day but doing so will make it harder to focus on work. Schedule breaks throughout the day so that you can step away from your desk and clear your mind. Loneliness often breeds self-doubt and a fixation on negative thoughts, leading to a major drop in productivity. Having a set plan and structure will help you stay focused on your goals, feel more motivated, and reduce stress overall.
Communicate regarding work incidents and issuesIf you have an incident while working alone, your employer should do a follow-up report. But don't hesitate to ask for more support if you need it. This might just be talking to a colleague, or it may include counselling. What doesn't seem like a big deal to one person can shake another's confidence. So, speak up and tell your employer what kind of support you need. When you experience negative emotions like loneliness or sadness, it's crucial that you communicate with those closest to you. It can be easy to get overwhelmed by these feelings and start isolating yourself from the world. By talking to others about what's going on, you will gain a new perspective and possibly come up with solutions to your problems. Lone working often means spends long hours by yourself, which can feel isolating. If people know this about you, they'll be more likely to message you or invite you to lunch.
Eat healthy and exercise regularlyWorking alone can make it easy to slip into bad eating habits and dismiss the need to exercise. Although a cliché, eating healthy and being active really does wonders for your mental health. If work is bogging you down, one of the best things to do is talk to your boss. In the meantime, try going to the gym or on walks during your lunch break to lift your spirits and relieve some stress. Another tip is to make sure you're eating three meals throughout the day as well as regular snacks. This will help regulate blood pressure and make you feel better overall. Take some time in the mornings and on your lunchbreak to prepare healthy food that will keep up your energy levels and mental wellbeing throughout the day.
Final Thoughts - Still Unsure About Working Alone?If you're a lone worker with doubts about your safety, it's up to you to communicate those concerns to your employer. They may not know how uneasy you feel or that you think possible risks haven't been assessed and dealt with appropriately. If there is an issue regarding safety that needs immediate attention, don't hesitate to speak up and report it - this includes any potential dangers you spot that aren't included in the lone worker risk assessment that should have already been completed by your employer. In many cases of working alone a lone worker alarm is necessary. Lone Alert offer a comprehensive service to keep you and/or your employees safe.