Somebody once told me – There are no friendships at work. People at workplaces are just colleagues, not friends. Those are professional relationships and should fade away when people stop being colleagues. Her argument was that there is no emotional dimension at work, which is essential for friendships.

Looking back at my career, I can see how fruitless this argument is. Among all the friendships I have had, those made at workplace are absolutely special for me. These relationships, nurtured amidst deadlines, meetings, and coffee breaks, hold a unique place for me. My workplace friends and I have gone through this humdrum of life several times together. We have together weathered spikes of stress, celebrated triumphs, eventually building memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the pressure of looming deadlines or the uncertainty of new projects, having a friend by your side makes the journey seem less daunting.

Shared struggles have a remarkable way of binding people together. When faced with adversity, we turn to those we trust, those who understand our plight because they are right there in the trenches with us. In these moments, laughter becomes our armour, and encouragement our guard. The simple act of empathising over a tough day or celebrating a small victory becomes the glue that strengthens our bond.

Moreover, the workplace is not just a battleground for challenges; it’s also a stage for success. And there’s no greater joy than sharing those moments of triumph with someone who has been there through it all. From landing a major milestone to completing a project ahead of schedule, these victories are sweeter when savoured with friends who have been on that journey, or cheered us on from the sidelines.

But it’s not just about the highs and lows; it’s about the everyday moments too. The inside jokes shared over lunch breaks, the impromptu brainstorming sessions that lead to innovative solutions, or the occasional happy hours where work titles are left at the door, and friendships take centerstage. These friendships create a support system that extends beyond the confines of the office walls.

Our destinies takes us in different ways, but thankfully the memories created at work stay with us forever. Professional connections may come and go, but work friendships endure.