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Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
They say don’t mix business with pleasure, but when you spend eight hours a day (or more, let’s be honest) with the same people, staying detached is next to impossible. You are either going to bond, clash, or end up somewhere awkwardly in between. Over the years, I have tried (and very often failed) to find that sweet spot: close enough to build camaraderie, far enough to stay professional. Here is what I have learned — and what might help you find your own balance.
As the start of my career, I was that chipper team player. The one who didn’t complain about extra work, stayed late, and genuinely thought that being helpful would always be appreciated. Isn’t that what dream teams are made of? Turns out, not quite.
I have to say, some brilliant friendships did come out of that time. From post-event debriefs over endless cups of coffee to surviving fashion weeks and last-minute shoots on zero sleep, the shared chaos brought us closer. We supported each other through tight deadlines and burnt-out mornings, swapping skincare tips and life advice in between tasks. Some of those colleagues are now among my closest friends — what started as desk-side chats turned into deep, lasting connections.
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Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
But it wasn’t all fashion week frog memes and mutual respect: naturally, not every work friendship came with a happy ending. There were colleagues who used that friendly energy to quietly unload their responsibilities onto my desk. Others smiled to my face but didn’t think twice about gossiping behind my back or throwing me under the metaphorical bus when things went south. It didn’t take long before I hit a turning point and realised I needed to set some boundaries.
That was easier said than done. When you have spent years being open and approachable, learning to say "no" and drawing lines feels unnatural. And when you finally get the hang of it, there is the risk of going too far and shutting everyone out. I swung between extremes for a while before finding a rhythm that worked.
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Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
A few years in, and I would like to think I have figured out a better way. My biggest takeaway? Pay attention to how people make you feel. If someone constantly leaves you feeling drained or uneasy, that is your sign. Healthy work relationships are built on respect, clear boundaries, and honest communication. You don’t need to be everyone’s mate — just someone who can collaborate without compromising their own wellbeing.
At their best, work relationships can make your job feel meaningful. At their worst, they are a crash course in protecting your energy. Either way, they shape your growth. So be kind, stay sharp, and focus on the connections that build you up — not wear you down.
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