Work-from-home has reduced people’s tendency to socialize
The end of one year and the start of another is always a good time to admit one’s mistakes. And I got something wrong about remote work. In 2020, when offices shuttered and many workers began working remotely, many sceptics decried the arrangement’s loneliness and isolation.
I argued that this was short-sighted—because although remote workers might be alone much of the day, it’s perfectly possible (in normal, non-pandemic times) to have a social life outside of work. After nearly three full years of remote and hybrid arrangements, the evidence is in: Most people working from home see less of their friends than before covid. This surprised me.
I thought that when pandemic-era isolation ended, remote employees would use the time saved on commuting to re-invest in their non-work relationships. Without a long commute, it would be easier to invite friends for a home-cooked meal. Increased flexibility would allow more midday coffee dates.
I didn’t think remote work would shrink the pie of camaraderie; personal friendships would just steal some market share from professional connections. Multiple studies have looked at how remote workers have re-allocated their commute time and for the most part, they just start work earlier and finish later. They also spend more time sleeping, cooking, doing chores and exercising.
Parents spend more time caring for children. Although remote workers gain more leisure time, only workers below 30 actually use it to get out of the house and hang out with friends. Those of us older than 30? We’re spending more time relaxing at home—either alone or with our families.
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