There is value in the forced interactions of a workplace, especially for introverts (like myself) who are perfectly capable/happy to go days or weeks without in-person communication. Eloquence requires practice to acquire and maintain and you get less practice when working remotely.
However, the forced interactions of a workplace lack quality and diversity of topics and audience, especially when compared to the vast opportunities for human connection outside of work.
It's sort of like saying, "Now that I'm no longer busting rocks on a chain gang, I don't get any physical exercise." The response to which would be fairly straightforward, right? Join a gym, exercise at home, take up weightlifting as a hobby, etc.
I think you would do well to find a new, better "gym" where you can exercise the skills you mention. For example:
- Volunteer somewhere that will put you alongside other people (e.g. Habitat for Humanity or a social cause).
- Attend networking events. Even if you aren't looking for a job, treat it like the gym. You are there to exercise.
- Join a public speaking group (e.g. Toastmasters).
- When you do go out (e.g. to the grocery store or a bar), strike up conversation with a stranger.
- Throw a party at your place. Invite a variety of people.
- Start a video diary. Instead of daily written entries, record short videos about literally anything going on in your world.
- Join a hobbyist group. You don't have to know anything at all about that hobby. Choose something you find intriguing. Don't overthink it.
- Read a book out loud. Yes, even vocalizing alone is good exercise as it forces you to do what you're missing when working remotely, which is to quiet your mind and focus on speech.
In short, working remotely gives you more time and--for introverts--more energy. Use those precious resources to your advantage.
However, the forced interactions of a workplace lack quality and diversity of topics and audience, especially when compared to the vast opportunities for human connection outside of work.
It's sort of like saying, "Now that I'm no longer busting rocks on a chain gang, I don't get any physical exercise." The response to which would be fairly straightforward, right? Join a gym, exercise at home, take up weightlifting as a hobby, etc.
I think you would do well to find a new, better "gym" where you can exercise the skills you mention. For example:
- Volunteer somewhere that will put you alongside other people (e.g. Habitat for Humanity or a social cause).
- Attend networking events. Even if you aren't looking for a job, treat it like the gym. You are there to exercise.
- Join a public speaking group (e.g. Toastmasters).
- When you do go out (e.g. to the grocery store or a bar), strike up conversation with a stranger.
- Throw a party at your place. Invite a variety of people.
- Start a video diary. Instead of daily written entries, record short videos about literally anything going on in your world.
- Join a hobbyist group. You don't have to know anything at all about that hobby. Choose something you find intriguing. Don't overthink it.
- Read a book out loud. Yes, even vocalizing alone is good exercise as it forces you to do what you're missing when working remotely, which is to quiet your mind and focus on speech.
In short, working remotely gives you more time and--for introverts--more energy. Use those precious resources to your advantage.