I’ve always been a total humbug about going into work. “There has to be a purpose.” I’ve said, on more than one occasion: like an All Hands or a workshop or a meeting. Something ‘big.’

I was wrong.

Last week was high pressure. I went into Paddington ready to be super stressed out but I went home having made three new friends and connected with colleagues I don’t see often enough.

A problem shared is a problem halved they say.

We talked about our children, gym resolutions for the new year, TV programmes, work worries. I unburdened myself about how nervous I was about my son’s driving test the next day, and my older son going travelling for seven months this week.

Logging on from home the next day I felt lighter. I reached out to one of my new friends to let them know that James passed his test, he sent back a heartfelt and much appreciated congratulations which lifted my morning.

Going into the office and sitting with my teammates helped me dial down my worries and focus on what I needed to deliver.

No more home-working humbug for me. From now on I’m going to look forward to my days in the office.

I’d underestimated what a positive difference to my mental health and professional wellbeing, a change of scene, great company, and that all-important connection makes.

• LinkedIn