The way we work has changed massively now that remote and hybrid models have become the new norm. In just a year, the number of fully remote workers has skyrocketed—rising from 49 percent in 2022 to 64 percent in 2023, according to Buffer.
While these changes bring unprecedented flexibility for individuals and significant cost savings for businesses, they come with a hidden cost—rising isolation.
As traditional office interactions fade, companies face a new challenge: how to keep employees connected, inspired, and productive in a world where for the most part, they’re on their own. To thrive in this new era, businesses are having to reimagine how they cultivate collaboration, culture, and creativity.
The isolation epidemic
Isolation isn’t just a mental health issue—it’s a productivity killer. Studies consistently show that loneliness can lead to decreased focus, lower motivation, and a sense of detachment from one’s work. For employees working remotely, the absence of casual chats, shared lunches, and impromptu brainstorming sessions can create a void that’s difficult to fill.
This lack of connection can have serious repercussions for our mental health. The World Health Organisation has identified workplace mental health as a critical issue, with stress and burnout affecting millions of workers worldwide. Remote work has only exacerbated this problem by blurring the lines between professional and personal life, leaving employees feeling perpetually “on.”
The question then becomes: how can businesses address this growing sense of disconnection without sacrificing the flexibility and efficiency that remote work offers? For me, the answer lies in leveraging technology to create a sense of community and structure that replicates what traditional workplaces once provided.
The rise of Body Doubling
Body doubling has gained traction as a powerful productivity tool. Originally popularised in neurodivergent communities, it involves working in the presence of another person to stay focused and on task. Virtual coworking platforms like FLOWN have adapted this concept for the modern workforce, enabling employees to join virtual focus rooms where they can work silently alongside colleagues even if they’re physically miles apart, share goals, and celebrate achievements in real time. These platforms help replicate the feeling of being in an office, complete with the subtle social accountability that drives productivity.
These tools aren’t just about combating loneliness; they’re about creating a structured and supportive work environment. For many employees, having a set time and space to work—even if it’s virtual—can provide the focus and motivation needed to tackle dull or challenging tasks. And for businesses, the benefits are clear. Body doubling can create happier, more engaged employees, better equipped to perform at their best, while retaining the flexibility of a remote work setup.
Why this technology matters now
As businesses navigate the complexities of remote and hybrid work, they’re realising that productivity isn’t just about meeting deadlines—it’s about fostering a culture where employees feel connected, valued, and inspired.
Investing in things like body doubling is a commitment to employee wellbeing. It signals that a company values not just output, but the people behind it. This approach aligns with a growing body of research showing that employee wellbeing directly impacts performance. When workers feel supported and connected, they’re more likely to be innovative, collaborative, and committed to their roles.
The future of work
As we look ahead, it’s clear that the future of work will be defined not just by where we work, but by how we work. The shift to remote and hybrid models has opened up new possibilities, but it’s also revealed significant challenges.
In a world where isolation is becoming the norm, the importance of connection cannot be overstated and body doubling is just the beginning. As tools continue to evolve, they have the potential to reshape how we think about work, productivity, and community. For businesses, embracing this technology isn’t just a strategy for improving performance—it’s a commitment to building a healthier, more connected workforce.
- Digital Strategy
- People & Culture
