Man is a collective being. On average, we spend eight out of 24 hours a day at work. When you subtract the time for sleep and the commute to and from work, it becomes clear that our "real" family is often not at home, but at the workplace 😊. Therefore, good relationships with colleagues are essential.

Let's face the facts: Our friends are usually people from our time in school or colleagues. These are individuals we know very well. We know how they behave in different situations, their behavior is predictable, and we are not afraid to let them get closer to us and integrate into our lives.

But what does it really mean to maintain friendships with colleagues? Are there more advantages or do the disadvantages outweigh? In this discussion, I would like to shed light on both sides and find out whether friendships in the workplace are actually beneficial or whether they can cause more problems. It is important to find the right balance and understand how professional and personal relationships can be linked without compromising professionalism.

The Benefits of Friendship with Colleagues

Many will now say that there are no disadvantages to having a friend at work. A healthy, friendly atmosphere in the workplace is wonderful. In a team characterized by mutual support and friendly relationships, work is much more pleasant than in a contentious office. Friendships in the workplace offer several undeniable advantages:

• You don't go to work like to a penal colony, but to a circle of friends, which fills work with joy and positive emotions.
• Misunderstandings in work matters are rare, leading to increased productivity.
• In difficult moments, you receive support and help, colleagues share your problems and give advice on how to handle critical situations.
• All company parties and professional events take place in a pleasant atmosphere. In a circle of like-minded individuals, it is always fun and interesting.

The Other Side of the Coin

Everything could be so beautiful if it weren't for a small "but." As cliché as it may sound, between love (or in our case friendship) and hate, there is often only a thin line. Best friends from yesterday can become bitter enemies overnight. In such cases, disappointment, arguments, and even open conflicts are inevitable. When team cohesion weakens, work becomes unbearable.

Other colleagues will inevitably be drawn into the conflict and have to take sides or distance themselves. This dynamic negatively affects the productivity of the entire team. And if work performance declines, this is something that the boss will surely not like.

Another important point is discussing personal matters with colleagues. Entrusting intimate secrets to them that you do not want to make public carries a risk. If the friendship ends, these secrets can become public, and suddenly you find yourself as an outsider in the team.

These risks should not be overlooked when considering maintaining friendships in the workplace. Try to find the balance between closeness and professionalism to avoid jeopardizing the work environment.

Conclusion

When work brings joy, especially through interaction with colleagues, we feel a bit happier. It is pleasant to be in a circle of familiar people whom we can rely on. Therefore, when the opportunity arises to befriend colleagues, it should definitely be taken.

However, always keep in mind what topics are appropriate in the workplace. If you are not sure if you can fully trust a person, maintain a certain distance in your conversation. Do not be an open book to everyone, to avoid later falling victim to your own talkativeness.

Try to find the balance between closeness and professionalism to maintain both a harmonious work environment and your own integrity.