Hanging out with coworkers??

Hi there willyar40! When I was just starting in this company I am working for, I did not have any problem with my colleagues. Most of them were good friends of mine. In fact, most of them have been my former teachers. After about two years of being with them, things changed. There was a change in management and most of my colleagues were transfered to other departments while the others opted to move out of the organization. For the past 6 years, I have not really enjoyed the company of my co-workers. I would rather spend more time with my friends outside of the organization whom I believe are several times better than any of my co-workers.

Well that's ok. Being friends with co-workers is a bonus of the job. I always keep in mind that, "I didn't come to work to make friends. I came to work and friends come along the way". It's good to know that you have a companion. Someone who is sharing the same work and stress you're having. That's where the bond starts, being on the same team. Outings are fine however, I have observed a few things about it. On company outings, I usually don't go if there are a few, around 10% to 20%, joining. And I don't bring along my family/friends with me. On outings without any other person around except us friends, I noticed it's more enjoyable since the attention is just to bond and be happy. But if you have family/friends with you, your attention is divided and the "team building" isn't as effective. It may be for a few. But the bottom line is still, we are here to work and we are a team. during work, let's work. While outside, it's fine to stay with friends at work but if the friendship already gets in the way of work, it's not healthy anymore.