I Work From Home and Have No Friends: How I Found Connection Beyond the Screen

As the weeks go by of Zoom meetings, microwave lunches, and working in your pajamas, it hit you: “I work from home and have no friends.”

Trust me, I’ve been there too. No coffee hangouts, no water cooler chats, no post-work dinner and drinks.

Remote Work Can Feel Isolating—You’re Not Alone

After transitioning to full-time remote work in 2020, I noticed something strange. My productivity was fine, but my energy was gone. I missed casual small talk, coffee breaks with coworkers, and even those Monday morning complaints.

I wasn’t just lonely—I felt disconnected.

A recent study from Buffer shows that 52% of remote workers say loneliness is their biggest struggle. You’re not alone in this. But here’s the good news: connection is possible. You just have to take that first step.

1. The Meetup App Changed Everything

The first time I opened the Meetup app, I was nervous. I typed in “Remote Workers Social” and “Hiking Group.” To my surprise, events popped up just minutes from where I lived.

✅ Tip: Try searching keywords that resonate with your interests like “remote workers,” “book club,” or “board games.” You don’t have to go to everything—just try one.

Or try using their Map feature to see events close to you.

One Thursday, I took a deep breath and showed up at a Real Estate Club….even though I know nothing about Real Estate Investment. I expected awkward small talk—but instead, I found easy conversations, shared interests, and even swapped numbers with two people who also worked remotely. And I got to learn a thing or two about buying properties!

Now, going to this club once a month is something I look forward to.

2. Facebook Community Pages Work (Yes, Really)

local community pages on Facebook are goldmines.

One day, I typed in my town’s name—let’s say “Austin Community Group.” Then I typed “Running Club.” Boom. Not only did I find a beginner group, but they had weekly runs followed by beers.

Even if you’re introverted or socially anxious, these pages often post about virtual events or small meetups that feel less intimidating than big parties or networking events.

✅ Tip: Type in “[Your town] + community,” or “[Your interest] + club.” Chances are, something’s happening nearby that matches your vibe.

3. Join a Class—Online or In-Person

I once signed up for a dance class after a friend recommended it. I didn’t even like their style of dance—but I ended up meeting five people in the same life stage as me. Sure this didn’t lead to any long-lasting relationships, but its also healthy for the remote worker to put themself out there and interact face-to-face.

Whether it’s yoga, painting, or learning Spanish, shared experiences are the fastest way to form connections.

✅ Tip: Look for “beginner” classes—that’s where people are most open to chatting and making new friends.

Final Thoughts: Stay in Communication, Stay Human

Now initiating a new connection is only the start … If you want friendships, you have to initiate them. I used to wait for someone else to ask me to hang out. But now, I reach out first.

A simple message like, “Hey, it was great meeting you at the meetup. Want to grab coffee sometime?” goes a long way.

Feeling shy or nervous? Most people also feel lonely and would love for someone to take that first step. At the end of the day, both parties can either both stay nervous and lonely, or someone can take that first step.

Working from home shouldn’t mean feeling like you’re living on an island.

If you’re feeling isolated, start small. Download Meetup. Join a Facebook group. Sign up for a class. Say hi to someone new. One message can lead to a meaningful connection.

And remember: “I work from home and have no friends” doesn’t have to be your story forever.

You’re one click away from making it different. You’re one connection away from making it click.