How to cope with the new normal

Sadly, people come and go in offices, and if your work bestie has decided it’s time to move on, you shouldn’t try to stop them.

Let yourself grieve

The first step is to really let yourself feel whatever you are feeling. “It is important to acknowledge and accept the emotional feelings of grief, and take time to settle,” suggests Blackler. “There can be feelings of loneliness and stress as your go-to person is not there.”

Seek out opportunities to build an out-of-work friendship

Just because your work bestie is moving on from your workplace, you can still be friends! If it’s possible, make plans with your work friend outside of the office.

Be patient

While you may tempted to seek out an immediate replacement for your friend, don’t rush out and start trying to force another strong connection in the office. Sit with how you’re feeling and let connections happen naturally.

Treat the change as an opportunity

Finally, even though losing a work bestie is hard, it can also hold some positives, too. In fact, it could even be a chance to start a new work chapter.

“Sometimes we get too comfy with people and then we’re not developing ourselves,” says Blackler. “A change at work could be seen as a new time to push yourself, talk to other people, ask questions. Maybe you can see that you have been holding yourself back with a safe friendship and this could be a great time to stretch yourself. Different people give and show us different things so being curious about what this change could bring.”

How to cope when your work bestie leaves you behind