Colleague leaving – What exactly is this feeling?
So I have a colleague who is leaving the company soon. Ever since I joined a couple of years back, he has always been the friendly, easy-to-approach colleague who is always willing to lend a helping hand.
At first, we don’t talk to each other at all (mostly just hi bye, smile, super formal kind) but as we started working more closely together for work, we gradually got closer.
Honestly, really didn’t expect him to leave so when I heard the news, I couldn’t contain myself. I suddenly felt sadness.
Even during the farewell, I teared up. As someone in the 20s who just started working, I’m still trying to figure out what this feeling is. Is it normal to feel this way when a co-worker suddenly announce departure?
Netizens’ comments
- I’ve felt this way with colleagues of both genders. The sad reality of corporate life is that people with come and go as you progress in your career. Some of them were dear friends who you’ll keep in touch it, but most likely you’ll never see them again. I have seen colleagues of both genders with platonic friendships tear up during farewells. It’s ok to be sad. Take your time to process your emotions.
- It means you had a good working relationship and probably consider each other as friends. Try to keep in contact!
- this happened to me recently albeit a little differently. Initially when she left i was indifferent to it , then i started teaching a new lady hire 3 months later and she was like a carbon copy of that colleague.
I suddenly missed the colleague who left quite dearly, yes i am a guy and yes i am not into her , she was a good friend. - I feel like it’s normal. I’ve felt this way for colleagues, no matter their gender. Just make sure you keep in touch with them once you leave! However, maybe he doesn’t feel as close to you since he didn’t warn you beforehand that he was going to resign.