[tedmiston]

As someone who works remotely, I experience this too.

> Remote workers have to get our phatic conversations on purpose – we have to reach out to one another, to grab a virtual coffee or a video-conferenced lunch.

Honestly I substitute commenting on sites like Hacker News in place of some phatic communication. It feels more stimulating, and gives the "same tribe" feeling, but it's also more resource intensive: I have to read an article or comments and think of an interesting response. It's not as carefree.

I'm also reminded of two essays Jason Fried wrote in REMOTE:

"The virtual water cooler" - we need mindless breaks; try talking off topic in a non-work room in Campfire/Slack/etc.

"Cabin fever" - spend time with the people that are close to you geographically; try a coworking space; do more local activities