I am working with a US-based client which involves co-ordinating with a remote team across the continent. I rarely get check-ins or team bonding moments. I sometimes feel like I am working in isolation, which affects my energy and sense of purpose. How can I be more productive?

Ans:

Hi Kiran.

I agree that WFH is a relatively new concept and does impact productivity especially in India as our homes are not designed to have work stations and infrastructure.

As a team leader, you can initiate these specific steps:

1. TRUST your team members. No one is having fun at home. Everyone wants to work and add value.

2. Clearly define the job roles and outcomes/targets.

3. Connect one-on-one with your team members to understand what they are going through.

4. Going to the office and travel would be a challenge, but you can get your colleagues to meet in smaller groups closer to their homes.

5. Make online meetings informal and fun and not very stiff and formal.

Ans:

Hi.

To be frank, you need to love your job and that should be your motivation.

Having said that, have a candid discussion with your management and raise your concerns. They will surely support you.

 

Ans: Dear Sunil,

No one is clear cut introvert or an extrovert, look at yourself closely too... in some circumstances you behave like an extrovert and some areas you behave like an introvert.

Be brave and say "hi" to people around you in the office, you be the first one to greet, this itself can be a starting point to making new friends. A smile and a pleasant "hi" is all it takes.
Look for opportunities to connect with ppl in the office, instead of sending mails or reminders to ppl electronically, just walk up to them and speak to them or call them up to say you have sent a mail/reminder. This way you can establish a human connect.
Also check if you can go to the dining area to eat lunch and during breaks.. do not sit at your desk and have lunch.
Social media and watching reels is a "big no" if you are yearning for human connections. I am glad you talk to your family...outside the office, join book clubs, singing clubs, drama clubs or anywhere your interest lies...you can join a classroom to learn and develop a new skill....

Also check if you are getting enough sleep, exercise, fresh air , sunshine during the day....focus on your diet too!!

Hope this helps... take care of yourself!

Ans: Start by creating opportunities for meaningful interaction. Sometimes the daily routines and responsibilities can create emotional walls, so finding a calm and positive environment for conversation is key. You might begin by sharing your feelings in a way that emphasizes your own experience rather than pointing out what your partner might not be doing. For example, saying something like, "I've been feeling a little disconnected lately, and I miss the closeness we used to share," opens the door for dialogue without sounding accusatory.

Rekindling intimacy often starts with small, intentional efforts to reestablish connection. This might mean setting aside time for each other, even if it’s just a few minutes of uninterrupted conversation at the end of the day. Look for moments to express appreciation for your partner, as this can help rebuild emotional warmth and remind them of the value they bring to your life.

It’s also worth reflecting on whether external stresses might be contributing to the distance. If either of you has been overwhelmed by work, family, or personal challenges, addressing those together can foster a sense of partnership and mutual support. Similarly, revisiting shared memories or engaging in activities you used to enjoy together can help reignite the bond you once had.

Lastly, be patient and consistent. Emotional intimacy doesn’t always come back instantly, but with genuine effort, kindness, and an open heart, you can rebuild the connection over time. Consider it a journey you’re embarking on together, rather than something you need to fix alone. If you feel like external guidance might help, discussing this with a couples therapist could provide both of you with tools to strengthen your relationship in a supportive environment.

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Many people have disliked the 'work from home' option that involves a lot of virtual interface. But do remind yourself: What is the need of the hour? There are a lot of things that you may dislike as eating options but you do anyway knowing that they are good for health, right?
When you start obsessing over something that you don't want, it makes it bigger in your mind to tolerate and that can cause you a lot of struggle. So, why not instead find ways of dealing with the inevitable?
How can you make things better for yourself when you have virtual meets and presentations? What are the advantages/perks of doing these virtually? When you start to look at the brighter side of things, the disinterest kind of starts to fade away and it makes it easier for you to be a part of what your work demands.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/