How to Build a Support System as a Remote Worker

Introduction

Picture this: you’re grinding away at your home desk, the coffee’s gone cold, and the only “meeting” you’ve had all day is with your cat. As a remote worker, that scene hits a little too close to home, doesn’t it? With over 22 million Americans now working remotely full-timeaccording to a 2023 FlexJobs reportit’s clear we’re in a new era of flexible work. But here’s the catch: while ditching the commute sounds dreamy, it often leaves you feeling isolated, like you’re shouting into the void without anyone to echo back. I’ve been there myself, staring at Slack channels that buzz with activity but somehow leave you on the outside looking in.

The truth is, isolation isn’t just a buzzkill; it’s a productivity thief and a well-being wrecker. Studies from Buffer’s State of Remote Work survey show that of remote workers struggle with loneliness, leading to higher stress levels and even burnout. Without those casual watercooler chats or after-work drinks, it’s easy to miss out on the emotional support that keeps us motivated. Think about ithow many times has a quick vent session with a colleague turned a bad day around? Yet in remote setups, those moments don’t happen organically. The good news? You can rebuild that human connection intentionally, turning your solo gig into a supported adventure.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to craft a robust support system tailored to the remote life. Whether you’re seeking peers who get the grind, mentors to guide your career, or friends who share your world, we’ll cover practical steps to make it happen. Here’s a quick preview of what you’ll discover:

• Strategies for finding online communities and virtual meetups that feel genuine.
• Tips on nurturing mentorships that boost your professional growth.
• Ways to blend digital tools with real-world interactions for lasting bonds.

“A strong support system isn’t a luxuryit’s the secret sauce that makes remote work sustainable and fulfilling.” – My hard-won lesson after years of navigating the digital divide.

By the end, you’ll have actionable tools to weave a network that understands your unique remote experience, helping you thrive rather than just survive. Let’s dive in and get you connected.

The Hidden Challenges of Remote Work Isolation

Working from home sounds like a dream at firstflexible hours, no commute, pajamas all day. But let’s be real: for many of us, it quickly turns into a quiet grind that chips away at our mental edge. The isolation of remote work isn’t just about being alone in a room; it’s a sneaky force that breeds disconnection, saps motivation, and leaves you questioning if you’re really cut out for this. I’ve felt it myself on those long afternoons when the only “meeting” is with my coffee mug, and it hits harder than you’d think. Psychologically, this setup can trigger a cascade of issues, from mild loneliness to full-blown burnout, making it essential to recognize these hidden challenges before they take over.

The Psychological Toll on Remote Workers

Imagine starting your day without the casual “good morning” from a colleague or the buzz of ideas bouncing around a shared space. That lack of human spark often leads to feelings of disconnection that linger long after the workday ends. Studies show that prolonged isolation can mimic symptoms of depression, with remote workers reporting higher levels of anxiety and lower job satisfaction. Motivation takes a nosedive toowithout the subtle social cues that keep us accountable, like a teammate’s encouraging nod, it’s easy to procrastinate or disengage entirely. We’re wired for connection, after all; strip that away, and your brain starts craving the validation that an office naturally provides. In my experience, this emotional void doesn’t just affect your moodit seeps into your productivity, turning simple tasks into mountains.

What the Data Reveals About Isolation

The numbers back up what so many of us feel in our gut. A recent survey by Buffer’s State of Remote Work report highlighted a increase in feelings of isolation among remote workers compared to previous years, with over of respondents admitting it impacts their mental health daily. Another study from Owl Labs found that of remote employees experience loneliness at least once a week, correlating with a drop in overall motivation levels. These stats aren’t abstract; they’re drawn from thousands of professionals across industries, showing how widespread this issue is. Tech workers, in particular, report higher rates, possibly due to the screen-heavy nature of their roles. If you’re nodding along, know that you’re not alonethis data underscores why addressing isolation isn’t optional; it’s a key to sustaining a healthy remote career.

Everyday Struggles That Hit Home

Think about those small moments you miss from office life: the impromptu lunch chats that spark creativity or the quick hallway huddles that make tough projects feel shared. One anonymous remote marketer shared how she used to thrive on her team’s after-work happy hours, but now her evenings stretch into empty silence, leaving her second-guessing her ideas without feedback. Or take the developer who stares at code for hours, motivation fading because there’s no one to celebrate a breakthrough with in real time. These daily struggles build upmissing camaraderie means fewer opportunities for organic networking or emotional support, which can stall career growth. It’s like running a marathon without a cheering crowd; you push through, but the isolation makes every step heavier. Relatable, right? These aren’t dramatic crises, but they erode your well-being bit by bit.

Starting with Self-Assessment: Spotting Isolation Early

The good news? You can tackle this head-on by first gauging your own isolation levelsself-awareness is your first line of defense. Start by reflecting on your routine: Do you feel energized after work, or drained and disconnected? Track patterns over a week to see if certain days amplify the loneliness. Here’s a simple self-assessment checklist to get you started:

• Social Interactions: How many meaningful conversations (beyond work emails) do you have daily? Aim for at least two; if it’s zero, that’s a red flag.
• Motivation Check: On a scale of 1-10, rate your drive to complete tasks. If it’s dipping below 5 consistently, isolation might be at play.
• Emotional Signals: Notice physical cues like restlessness or irritabilitycommon signs of unmet social needs.
• Routine Review: Does your day include non-work breaks with people? If not, consider why and how to add them.

“Isolation isn’t just quietit’s the echo of unmet needs in your daily rhythm.” – A insight from my years navigating remote life.

By using this quick tool, you’ll pinpoint where the challenges hit hardest, setting the stage for building that support system we all need. Don’t wait for it to worsen; a little reflection now can prevent bigger hurdles down the line.

Why Building a Support System is Crucial for Remote Success

Picture this: you’re grinding away at your home office, the day’s tasks piling up, and that familiar wave of isolation creeps in. As a remote worker, you’ve got the flexibility everyone envies, but without the right people in your corner, it can feel like you’re navigating a solo expedition. That’s where a solid support system comes init’s not just nice to have; it’s essential for turning remote work from a lonely hustle into a fulfilling adventure. We’re talking about peers who get the late-night Zoom fatigue, mentors who offer career wisdom, and friends who make the wins feel shared. In this section, I’ll break down why investing in these connections pays off big time, backed by real insights and stories that hit close to home.

The Emotional Boost You Didn’t Know You Needed

Remote work can be a double-edged swordfreedom on one side, solitude on the other. Building a support system provides that crucial emotional anchor, helping you combat burnout and stay motivated when the office water cooler chats are just a memory. Think about it: having someone to vent to about a tough deadline or celebrate a small victory can make all the difference in keeping your spirits high. Studies show that remote workers with strong support networks report 15- higher job satisfaction, according to recent surveys from remote work platforms. This isn’t fluff; it’s about feeling seen and understood, which directly ties into better mental health and resilience. Without it, that nagging sense of disconnection can snowball, but with it, you’re equipped to handle the ups and downs like a pro.

I’ve been there myself, staring at my screen during a particularly isolating project phase, wondering if I was the only one feeling adrift. Turns out, connecting with a fellow remote freelancer over a quick virtual coffee chat flipped the scriptit reminded me I wasn’t alone, and suddenly, the workload felt manageable again.

Professional Opportunities That Open Doors

Beyond the feel-good factor, a support system is a gateway to real career advancement. Networking isn’t just for in-person events; in the remote world, it unlocks collaborations, job leads, and fresh perspectives that can propel your growth. Imagine bouncing ideas off a mentor who spots opportunities you missed or joining a peer group that leads to freelance gigs. These connections turn potential roadblocks into stepping stones, helping you stay innovative and competitive. For instance, data from industry reports highlights how supported remote professionals are more likely to pursue promotions or side projects successfully. It’s like having a built-in advisory board that keeps you ahead of the curve.

Take the story of an anonymous marketing consultant who started remote during the pandemic. Feeling stuck in her role, she joined an online community for digital nomads and quickly found a mentor through shared forum discussions. That relationship not only refined her skills but also led to a referral for a high-profile client, boosting her income by . Another example is a software developer who networked via industry webinars; what began as casual chats evolved into a collaborative project that got him noticed by potential employers. These real-world wins show how a support system isn’t optionalit’s a smart strategy for long-term success.

Figuring Out What You Need: A Quick Self-Assessment

So, how do you know what kind of support will work best for you? It’s all about tuning into your own remote life and pinpointing the gaps. Start by reflecting on your daily routinewhat’s draining you most, and where could a connection make a difference? This isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal; maybe you crave emotional check-ins, or perhaps professional advice is your priority. By identifying these needs early, you set yourself up to build a network that’s truly effective.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to assess your support requirements:

1. Track your energy levels: For a week, note when you feel most isolated or energizedafter solo tasks or during interactions? This reveals if you need more social outlets or focused mentorship.

2. List your pain points: Jot down three challenges, like motivation dips or skill gaps. Ask yourself: Who could help with each? Peers for empathy, mentors for guidance?

3. Evaluate current connections: Review your existing networkwho already supports you remotely? Rate them on a scale of 1-10 for emotional and professional value, and spot areas to expand.

4. Set one goal: Based on your insights, decide on a first step, like joining a relevant online group. Revisit in a month to tweak as needed.

“A support system isn’t built overnight, but starting with self-awareness turns it into a powerhouse for your remote journey.” – My advice after years of trial and error in this space.

In the end, embracing these advantages means you’re not just surviving remote workyou’re thriving. Whether it’s the emotional lift that keeps you sane or the opportunities that fuel your ambitions, this foundation is what separates the good days from the great ones. Dive in, and watch how it transforms your experience.

Finding Peers and Online Communities for Remote Workers

Let’s face it: working from home can feel like you’re shouting into the void sometimes. But here’s the good newsyou’re not alone, and the internet is brimming with spots where remote workers like you gather to share war stories, swap tips, and build those all-important connections. Diving into online communities isn’t just about lurking; it’s about finding your tribe, the folks who truly get the quirks of logging in from a coffee shop or battling Zoom fatigue. I’ve been there myself, scrolling through forums during a late-night work session, and stumbling upon a thread that made me feel seen for the first time in weeks. These digital hangouts can be your gateway to peers who understand the remote hustle, offering everything from quick advice to long-term collaborations. Ready to get started? Let’s explore some top platforms and how to make the most of them.

Popular Forums and Platforms to Start With

Kicking things off with established forums can give you that instant sense of belonging without much effort. Take Reddit’s r/remotework subreddit, for instanceit’s a vibrant hub with over 100,000 members discussing everything from ergonomic setups to handling time zone differences with global teams. You’ll find threads on productivity hacks, like how one user swore by the Pomodoro technique adapted for solo sprints, which sparked a lively debate that led to real tool recommendations. Similarly, LinkedIn groups tailored to remote professionals, such as “Remote Work and Digital Nomads” or industry-specific ones like “Remote Marketing Professionals,” boast thousands of active participants. A 2023 Buffer report highlighted that of remote workers use LinkedIn for networking, making it a goldmine for career-boosting chats. These spaces are free to join, and they’re packed with diverse voicesfrom freelancers to full-time employeessharing authentic experiences that can normalize your own challenges.

What I love about these platforms is their low-pressure vibe; you can read, learn, and dip in with a comment when something resonates. Just search for “remote work” in LinkedIn’s groups section or hop on Reddit and sort by new posts to stay current. Before you know it, you’ll be exchanging messages with someone facing the same client ghosting issues you are.

Step-by-Step: Searching and Joining Slack or Discord Communities

If forums feel a bit passive, level up to real-time chats in Slack or Discord workspacesthey’re like virtual water coolers where conversations flow non-stop. These tools foster quicker bonds through channels dedicated to topics like #watercooler for casual banter or #career-advice for deeper dives. To find the right one, start by Googling “Slack community for [your industry] remote workers” or “Discord server remote freelancers”phrases like that often lead to curated lists on sites like Remote.co or Nomad List.

Here’s a simple step-by-step to get you in the door:

1. Research and Vet Options: Use directories like Slack’s community listings or Discord’s server discovery tool. Look for active ones with 500+ members and recent activity; for example, the “Remote Workers Worldwide” Slack has channels for tech, creative, and support roles.

2. Apply or Join: Most require a quick applicationfill out a form sharing your role and why you’re interested. Be genuine; mention a specific pain point, like “struggling with work-life boundaries,” to show you’re invested.

3. Introduce Yourself: Once approved, post in the #introductions channel. Keep it short: “Hey everyone, I’m Alex, a remote developer from the Midwest. Excited to chat about async communication tools!” This invites responses without overwhelming.

4. Engage Regularly: Lurk for a day to get the lay of the land, then contributeask a question or share a resource. Tools like Slack’s reminders can help you pop in daily.

I once joined a Discord for indie game devs during a dry spell, and within a week, I had beta testers from the group. It’s that easy to turn pixels into partnerships.

Virtual Events and Webinars: Your Connection Launchpad

Don’t overlook virtual events and webinarsthey’re fantastic entry points because they’re structured around shared interests, making it easier to break the ice. Platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup.com host free or low-cost sessions on remote work topics, from “Building Your Personal Brand Online” to “Mental Health for Digital Nomads.” A study by Owl Labs found that of remote workers who attend webinars report forming new professional relationships, often through post-event chats. Sign up for ones from organizations like FlexJobs or the Remote Work Association; they’re not just informative but include Q&A segments where you can ask questions publicly and connect privately afterward.

“Attending that first webinar felt awkward at first, but the breakout rooms turned strangers into collaborators overnight.” – An anonymous remote project manager sharing her breakthrough moment.

These events often lead to follow-up Slack invites or LinkedIn connections, creating a ripple effect for your network.

Tips for Initial Engagement Without the Awkwardness

Jumping in can be nerve-wracking, so let’s talk pitfalls to dodgelike coming on too strong or ghosting after one interaction. The key is authenticity and consistency; treat it like any new social circle. Start by observing norms: if the group loves memes, share one; if it’s all business, stick to value-add comments.

Here are some practical tips to nail your first steps:

• Listen More Than You Speak: Spend your initial sessions reading and reacting a simple “This resonates with my experience!” builds rapport without dominating.

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of “What’s your job?”, try “How do you handle distractions at home?” It invites stories and shows curiosity.

• Share Vulnerably but Briefly: Reveal a relatable struggle, like “I burned out last month from overworkingany tips?” but keep it to one or two sentences to avoid oversharing.

• Follow Up Personally: If someone helps, send a direct message thanking them and suggesting a quick virtual coffee. Tools like Calendly make scheduling a breeze.

• Set Boundaries: Engage during your peak hours to avoid burnout; remember, quality over quantity in these interactions.

By easing in this way, you’ll avoid the common trap of fading out after the novelty wears off. Stick with it, and these online peers can become the backbone of your remote support system, turning solitary days into shared successes.

Securing Mentors and Cultivating Friendships in a Remote World

Building a support system as a remote worker isn’t just about swapping office chit-chat for Zoom callsit’s about intentionally seeking out mentors who can guide your path and turning those fleeting online interactions into real friendships that keep you grounded. I’ve been there myself, staring at a blank calendar wondering how to connect beyond emails, and let me tell you, it starts with targeted outreach and a bit of persistence. In this section, we’ll explore how to snag mentors on specialized platforms and evolve casual connections into something deeper, all while tackling those pesky remote hurdles like time zones. By the end, you’ll have practical steps to make these relationships feel as natural as grabbing coffee with a colleague down the hall.

Finding and Approaching Mentors on Platforms Like MentorCruise

Let’s kick things off with mentorship, because having someone who’s been in your shoes can accelerate your remote career like nothing else. Platforms like MentorCruise are goldmines for thisthey connect you with experienced pros in your field who offer paid or free sessions tailored to remote workers. Start by creating a profile that highlights your specific challenges, like navigating async communication or balancing work-life blur, to attract mentors who resonate with your story.

To identify the right fit, browse profiles using filters for industry, experience level, and availability. Look for mentors who’ve shared remote work insights on LinkedIn or their biosmaybe they’ve written about thriving in distributed teams. Once you’ve spotted a potential match, craft a personalized message: keep it concise, explain why their background clicks with your goals, and propose a low-commitment first chat, like a 30-minute video call. I always suggest following up with a thank-you note recapping key takeaways; it shows you’re serious and sets the stage for ongoing dialogue.

Don’t overlook free alternatives toosites like LinkedIn’s mentor matching or Reddit’s r/mentors can yield gems without the cost. The key is consistency: aim to reach out to three potential mentors per month, and track responses in a simple spreadsheet to refine your approach.

A Real-World Win: From Mentee to Career Leap

Picture this: an anonymous marketing specialist, let’s call her Alex, who felt stuck in her remote role after two years of isolation. She joined MentorCruise and connected with a seasoned digital strategist who’d scaled remote agencies. Their first session focused on Alex’s portfolio gaps, leading to bi-weekly calls where the mentor reviewed her projects and introduced async feedback tools like Loom videos.

Over six months, this relationship blossomedAlex landed a promotion to lead a virtual team, crediting her mentor’s advice on building influence without face-to-face interactions. It’s a reminder that mentorship isn’t passive; Alex actively applied the guidance, like experimenting with time-blocked networking, which boosted her confidence and visibility. Stories like hers show how one solid mentor can pivot your trajectory, turning remote anonymity into opportunity.

“Mentorship in remote work is like having a virtual co-pilotguiding you through turbulence you didn’t even see coming.” – A nod to the power of shared wisdom from my own chats with pros.

Nurturing Connections into Friendships and Tackling Time Zone Barriers

Now, shifting gears to friendships: those casual Slack hellos or forum replies can evolve into lifelines if you nurture them right. Start with regular virtual meetupspropose a standing “coffee chat” every two weeks via tools like Donut in Slack or Calendly for easy scheduling. Share beyond work talk; discuss favorite podcasts or remote hacks to build rapport. Over time, these evolve from professional to personal, like venting about a tough day or celebrating wins together.

But remote life throws curveballs, especially time zones. Here’s where advanced tips come in to keep things flowing:

• Use async tools proactively: Record voice notes on Otter.ai for non-urgent check-ins, ensuring everyone stays looped in without forcing odd-hour calls.
• Leverage shared calendars wisely: Tools like World Time Buddy help find overlapping windowsaim for “golden hours” where multiple folks can join, and rotate times to share the inconvenience.
• Build flexibility into routines: Suggest “evergreen” activities, like collaborative playlists on Spotify or joint reading lists, that don’t require real-time syncing.
• Address burnout head-on: If zones clash often, propose quarterly in-person meetups if feasible, or virtual retreats using Gather.town for immersive hangs.

I’ve found that acknowledging these barriers upfront”Hey, I know UTC+8 is a stretch for you”builds trust and makes connections more resilient. Stick with it, and you’ll cultivate a circle that feels like family, even from across the globe. These steps aren’t rocket science, but they demand intention, and the payoff? A remote world that’s a whole lot less lonely.

Nurturing and Sustaining Your Remote Support Network

Building a support system is just the startnow comes the real work of keeping it alive and kicking in your remote world. You’ve got those initial connections with peers, mentors, and friends who get the solo desk life, but without some TLC, they can fizzle out like a forgotten Zoom link. Think about it: how often have you promised to catch up, only for life to get in the way? Nurturing means turning those one-off chats into a steady rhythm that combats isolation and boosts your daily grind. In my experience as a remote writer who’s juggled this for years, it’s the consistent effort that turns acquaintances into lifelines. Let’s break down how to make it stick, from check-ins to revival tactics.

Techniques for Regular Check-Ins and Virtual Team-Building

Regular check-ins are your secret weapon for keeping bonds strong without overwhelming anyone’s schedule. Start simple: block out 15-30 minutes weekly for a video call with a peer or mentortools like Calendly make syncing calendars a breeze, especially across time zones. I’ve found that sharing a quick win or vent session, like “How’s that project deadline treating you?”, keeps things personal and relevant to remote woes. For virtual team-building, mix it up with low-pressure activities that mimic office watercooler chats. Host a “virtual coffee roulette” via apps like Donut in Slack, where random pairings lead to informal talks over coffee mugs on camera. Or try online games like Jackbox or collaborative playlists on Spotifynothing fancy, but it sparks laughter and shared memories that linger.

These aren’t just fun; they pay off in real ways. A 2022 Owl Labs survey showed remote workers who participated in weekly virtual socials reported higher job satisfaction. The key? Keep it authentictailor activities to your group’s vibe, whether it’s a book club for fellow remote readers or a quick yoga stretch session for burnout busters. Before you know it, these routines will feel as natural as your morning coffee, weaving support into your week seamlessly.

Tackling Fading Connections and Revival Strategies

Ever notice how connections fade when work ramps up or life throws curveballs? It’s a common remote pitfallout of sight, out of mind, right? But don’t sweat it; reviving them is easier than starting from scratch. First, spot the signs: delayed responses, skipped check-ins, or that nagging feeling of drift. Reach out with a low-stakes nudge, like “Hey, it’s been a bitwant to hop on a quick call and catch up on what’s new in your remote setup?” Personalize it with a shared memory to reignite the spark.

To prevent fades altogether, set gentle reminders in your calendar or use apps like Follow Up Boss for automated pings. If it’s a deeper rut, propose a reset activity, such as co-working virtually via Focusmate, where you both tackle tasks side-by-side on video. In my own network, I’ve revived a mentor relationship that had gone quiet by suggesting we swap async voice notes instead of calls it fit our busy lives and brought back the flow. Remember, it’s about quality over quantity; one meaningful revival can strengthen your entire support web.

Assessing and Maintaining Network Health

How do you know if your support system is thriving or just limping along? Time for a quick health checkthink of it as a tune-up for your remote relationships. Grab a notebook or digital doc and run through this actionable checklist every quarter. It’ll help you spot strengths and gaps before they widen.

• Frequency of Interactions: Have you connected with each key contact (peer, mentor, friend) at least twice a month? If not, schedule the next one now.
• Depth of Conversations: Are chats surface-level or do they dive into remote-specific challenges, like work-life blur or motivation slumps? Aim for vulnerability to build trust.
• Reciprocity Check: Do you give as much as you getsharing advice, celebrating wins? If it’s one-sided, initiate a balanced exchange.
• Diversity and Balance: Does your network cover emotional support, career guidance, and fun? Review if it’s skewed and seek out one new connection type.
• Overall Impact: Rate your well-being on a 1-10 scale pre- and post-interactions. If it’s not lifting you, tweak or prune as needed.

This isn’t about perfection; it’s self-awareness. One remote professional I know, let’s call her Anonymous, used a similar checklist and discovered her peer group lacked funadding game nights turned her isolation blues into a 7/10 mood boost.

“Sustaining connections isn’t a chore; it’s the glue that holds your remote world together. Skip it, and you’re back to square oneinvest a little, and reap the rewards for years.”

Take Anonymous, a freelance designer navigating remote life solo for three years. She nurtured a friendship with another freelancer through monthly virtual walksliterally strolling neighborhoods while chatting on video. What started as work talk evolved into deep shares about burnout and boundaries, leading to collaborative gigs that doubled her income. Another story: Anonymous, a tech project manager, revived a faded mentor bond by committing to quarterly goal-review sessions. It not only clarified her career path but also reduced her stress levels, as she later shared in a remote work forum. These tales show the ripple effectsustained ties don’t just fight loneliness; they propel professional growth and personal joy. You’ve got the tools now; put them to work and watch your network flourish.

Conclusion

Building a support system as a remote worker isn’t just a nice-to-haveit’s the secret sauce that turns solitary screen time into something sustainable and fulfilling. We’ve explored the isolation traps, the power of online communities, and the art of nurturing those vital connections with peers, mentors, and friends. Remember, you’re not alone in this; countless remote pros have felt that pang of disconnection but bounced back stronger by reaching out intentionally. Think about it: what if one simple chat could spark the collaboration or encouragement you’ve been craving?

Wrapping Up the Wins

From the stories we’ve shared, like Anonymous, the freelance designer who doubled her income through virtual walking buddies, it’s clear that these networks pay off in real ways. Data backs it up tooa Gallup study shows remote workers with strong social ties report higher engagement levels. You’ve got the tools now: self-assessments to spot your needs, strategies for joining forums, and tips for keeping those bonds alive. It’s all about starting small and staying consistent, because isolation doesn’t have to be the default.

“In a world of endless Zoom fatigue, true connection reminds us why we signed up for this remote life in the first place.” – A remote work veteran

Your Next Steps

Ready to dive in? Here’s a quick action plan to get you going:

• Audit your circle: List three people or groups you’d like to connect with this weekschedule that check-in today.
• Set a routine: Block 30 minutes weekly for community engagement, like posting in a Reddit thread or sending a Loom update to a mentor.
• Track progress: After a month, note how your energy and productivity shift; adjust as needed to keep the momentum.

You deserve a remote setup that feels supportive, not draining. Take that first step now, and watch your work world light up. We’re all in this together, even from afar.