Missing my former work friend

[Anonymous]

I worked with a former colleague for several years over which we became quite close, talking and DM'ing multiple times a day. We worked great together, we shared aspects of our personal lives, and we supported each other as my workplace can be stressful. They left for a new job a couple of months ago, and I find myself missing them a lot. It's hitting me more in the last week or two, I think, because between vacations and new school year etc I was distracted in the summer.

We still chat about once a week and text occasionally. We don't live in the same place, so coffee/lunch is not an option. While the friendship is mutual, I'm experiencing the loss of our former interactions more acutely since I'm still in my old job...just without a person who made it so much more enjoyable. We've even talked about this.

Not looking for advice, just venting. My workplace has gotten even more unpleasant lately. And, another colleague I'm close with is about to go on parental leave...and another is planning their retirement. Even though it's Saturday, it's hitting me hard today

[Anonymous]

I'm sorry for you.

All my favorite people took buyouts last year. I feel like a kid who just enrolled in a new school.

[Anonymous]

I'm sorry.

Friendship is geography. This is kind of how it goes with work friends, anyway. Unfortunately, they tend to fade away for good, because -- life.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm sorry for you.

All my favorite people took buyouts last year. I feel like a kid who just enrolled in a new school.

I can relate. I feel like a little kid whose neighborhood best friend moved away. In some ways, we have become closer since we are making an effort to stay in touch without work to force it, but day-to-day I've got a gap. Something happened at work this week where my friend would have 100% had my back if they still worked with me, so that probably is why it's feeling harder as well. I really need to find a new job in a less toxic environment.

[Anonymous]

I’m dealing with something similar OP. Several of my close work friends were laid off! I am looking for a new job. It doesn’t feel the same.