Coworker After-hours Socializing. Should I attend?: Stoicess’ Secret

June 12, 2024

It’s Friday, lunchtime has passed, and your coworkers are getting antsy. They’re watching the clock tick slowly as 5pm approaches. Some are even humming the song, “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere”. And you know the drill. They’ll be headed toward the local establishment to vent their frustrations and unwind.

But you prefer solitude.  You’ll go home and take a walk to view God’s peace in nature. It’s how you remove your stress from the week.

However, some accuse you of not being a team player by not attending after-hours events. And you’ve noticed the promotions do appear to go to those who are a part of the social group. So, how do you compromise?

In today’s modern workplace, it’s not uncommon for colleagues to socialize with each other after hours. Some see it as an opportunity for team building and developing stronger bonds, while others may prefer to keep their professional and personal lives separate. Whether you’re a fan of post-work gatherings, or you prefer to unwind in solitude, from training with the Stoicess, you know that there are both pros and cons to consider.

On the positive side, socializing with coworkers outside of work can foster a sense of camaraderie and create a more relaxed and enjoyable work environment. It can also provide opportunities for networking and building professional connections that can benefit your career in the long run. During social gatherings, you’ll have the chance to meet individuals from different departments or even external professionals who may be part of the social circle. This can lead to valuable mentorship opportunities, collaborations, or even job recommendations down the line.

Furthermore, by socializing with coworkers, you can gain insights into different roles or projects within the company. This exposure can broaden your understanding of the organization and potentially open doors to new career paths or projects of interest. It can also provide a platform for knowledge sharing and skill development, as you learn from others’ experiences and expertise. However, it’s important to be mindful of the potential downsides as well.

One of the drawbacks is that spending more time with coworkers could blur the lines between work and personal life, making it difficult to disconnect and recharge. Another potential downside is the pressure to conform to social norms and expectations. In some cases, you may feel obligated to participate in distasteful activities to fit in or be seen as a team player. And once admitted to the group, it’s difficult to leave the group without being considered an outcast which can negatively impact your future career with the company.

As you mull over the pluses and minuses, you ultimately decide to choose faith-based friendships in the workplace. You’ll associate with other Christians, so you’ll be in an environment where your beliefs are respected. For you’re looking for meaningful relationships that can allow you to live out your faith in your life journey to serve God.

Now using My S-T-O-I-C STORYTELLING method:

(S) I don’t like socializing with my coworkers after business hours; should I make myself be around them?
(T) “Man is by nature a social animal.” Aristotle
“He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm.”  Book of Proverbs
(O) I will associate with colleagues who share my faith.
(I) I realized these individuals will help me live out my faith in my journey to serve God.
(C) The character trait I improved was the ability to keep my faith strong while at work.

Thank you for sharing your mind with me.

For your continued Success,

Hear MY Secret:

When socialization is required to be a part of the mainstream, choose those who share your faith, so your life journey remains supreme.

Now RELAX ……CONTROL YOUR MIND….

and ‘Be as you wish to seem’ …..

EMPOWERED!

Remember: It’s the Situation Keeping My Connection with Him.

I’m Lori Stith, The Stoicess

AND I believe in YOU.