Earle Steve’s lyrics … It doesn’t get any lonelier than this … describes an increasing number of frenzied workers in today’s fast-paced and struggling organizations. Much more than mere heartbreak identified in Steve’s song … we’ve recently become aware that loneliness also alters gene activity. How so?
According to researcher, John Cacipppo, loneliness also stops the hormone cortisol from creating immunity against inflammation. It’s common knowledge that chronic inflammation can lead to serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
What’s your loneliness IQ? Check out the free UCLA Loneliness Scale to see where you fall. Most people experience a normal measure of loneliness. If your score indicates a higher than normal level of loneliness, however, you may be putting your brain and general health at risk.
Many brain based smart skills can help you overcome isolation … through rewiring your brain against forces that undermine your social well-being. Start small for best results.
The first step is to determine your degree of loneliness – often marked by feelings of being devalued or diminished at work. The second step is to try out one brain based smart skill each week. Finally, do share any positive results with a fellow worker who may also be at the threshold of similar feelings, as a way to rewire your brain for lasting social connections at work.
Ellen, more people than we realize might be lonely at work since about 75% of today's workers are dissatisfied with their jobs. That might be a part of this picture.
Posted by: Robyn | June 5, 2008 1:05 PM | Permalink to Comment