What about colleagues?

[Dd852]

I've been out three years and because the purges continued - or stepped up - many of my friends are now also on the outside. So point one: everything changes, nothing stays the same -- truly good friends will continue regardless, but only if you had things beside work that cemented the relationship. Point two: if you're out and they're still in, it can get weird. I had lunch with a friend who is still inside today. While it was lovely, when she wanted to discuss her situation, I realized how little I had connections with it and how little I actually cared. Point three (related to two): it can also make them jealous of you and you too pleased with your own situation. Not that that's necessarily a bad thing.

Bottom line - it all changes but with a few people you can re establish friendship on a new basis.


Sent from my iPhone using Early Retirement Forum

[USA]

Update: it’s now been 2 1/2 yrs. As I reread posts it’s reflective. I will be together with the group again for a retirement party soon. I’m excited about it. It’s been a year since the last time. Colleagues that have relocated are coming from other states. Can’t wait to look them in the eye, hug them. That’s a real plus after R. I can hug in joy. Before touching would have been limited to times of grief. Had I stayed working I’d be thinking about who I didn’t want to see! It’s like I’ll be looking through a window to see work again so to speak. I will laugh when I hear of who got the last minute request/demand for HQ on a Friday. The fun part is when then blinds close over the work window I’m going home to dance! It all plays out how it’s supposed to, depending on what the relationships really are.

[Bklyn55]

I totally agree with Petershk. I noticed that other long time employees who retired before me were quickly forgotten, so I had no expectations of continuing relationships. My very close work friends were made in the beginning of my career. We were like a family and they will always be in my life. The workplace became more toxic and competitive in recent years. I wonder if that is just my experience or the way things are now...