Most people aren’t going to work to socialize, unless of course their jobs call for it. But, as we know, there are a lot of times when you unexpectedly become friends with a co-worker or two. This isn’t to be expected, but it does feel nice to have a support system as you go through your days. A New York woman shares her feelings on how “being antisocial at work isn’t the flex you think it is.” Nobody has to be friends with their co-workers, but a certain kindness is to be expected on most occasions.
Crystal (@crystaluncut) shared a TikTok video talking about how it’s nice to “find a little common ground” when it comes to the relationship you have with your co-workers. As she says, you don’t have to be “besties with your coworkers.” It is important to remember that you’ll spend 40 or more hours a week around these individuals. At the end of the day, Crystal believes that at least being nice to your coworkers can be helpful, even if it’s just acknowledging their existence.
Crystal says that, when you stop being antisocial at work, “you’ll get so much further in life.” It does open a lot of opportunities to meet the right people and even invite them in on some occasions. Work is a great place to meet friends and build relationships that could follow you through life. She says she believes that people have an obsession of “being completely emotionally removed from everything.” She goes on to say that it’s “a little weird” when people do this in the workplace.
Crystal said she’s shared with family and friends that she’s going out to drinks with co-workers. From there, they’ll “go on a whole ‘your co-workers are not your friends’ campaign.” As Crystal hilariously puts it, “Babe, I said we’re getting drinks. Not getting pap smears together. Relax.” You can be picky with how close you allow yourself to get with your co-workers. It’s even true that you don’t need to tell them everything, including what is deeply personal in your life. But Crystal says you could miss out on “opportunities and real connections” if you’re totally removed from them.
One commenter agreed, “’Ugh, I don’t want to make small talk with these people.’ Meanwhile, we’re just talking about saying good morning when you walk in.” Another person asked, “Why would you want to be miserable at a place where you are forced to spend 40 hours a week at?!? Makes no sense to me!” Sitting and working silently for 40 hours a week with zero interaction sounds miserable. So, if you have the opportunity to go out with some co-workers and socialize a little, you might want to take it.
