Main point: “We’re used to relying on work as a crucial part of our social lives, but since the physical workplace has lost its luster, it may be worth reevaluating and redefining the role colleagues play in our lives and reconsider whether intimate relationships with coworkers are as beneficial as we’ve been led to believe.”

More about it:

• “Some argue that the new remote-first way of work has eroded office friendships, drastically decreasing the amount of time people spend in-person socializing and building connections.”
• “…the office has been the No. 1 place Americans make friends, surpassing school, church, and neighborhood haunts.”
• “…we’re spending less time working than before the pandemic, further supporting the argument that we need to look beyond the office for deep social connection.”
• “…categorize colleagues with whom you’re closest as friendlies. These are the coworkers who are supportive, trustworthy, and contribute to a cordial and fulfilling working environment. They are not your true friends, but they make your work life enjoyable and less stressful.”

Why it matters to young people:

• This might be seen as controversial because we enjoy relationships with other people. God designed us to be social beings.
• The gist of the article seems to be to keep colleagues at arms length. This doesn’t work in high risk/high effort areas like the military. I don’t stay in touch with private and public sector colleagues, but I do stay in touch with military comrades.
• You should, therefore, to be aware of workplace dynamics so you can navigate your environment effectively.
• You should also consider the area of work-life balance – you may not want to spend that much time in the office or on the shop floor if you have a life outside work.

What to do about it:

• Consider what you want from your career beyond just financial stability. Align your job choices with your values and desire for meaningful work.
• Build critical 21st-century skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and communication. These skills are valuable regardless of workplace friendship dynamics.
• Identify industries and roles that resonate with personal passions and values to reveal fulfilling career choices.
• Instead of relying solely on office friendships, focus on developing a broad professional network both inside and outside your workplace.
• Maintain a healthy separation between work and personal life to achieve overall well-being and career satisfaction.
• Recognize that workplace norms and expectations may change throughout your career, so cultivate flexibility and openness to new ways of interacting professionally.

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