Message #50743

[laurafmcdermott]

As a general rule, I don't socialize with coworkers.  I have made a few friends here and there that I will spend a weekend afternoon with (actually just yesterday did lunch and shopping with a coworker) but they are few and far between.  I really feel that there is a fine line between being a team player (say, having a drink after work) and being part of an "us vs. them" mentality (such as your girls' night out dilema).  They way you describe it sounds as though it's just an excuse to kvetch about the boss and the workplace--which is not productive, nor do I think it is a valid way to spend your time.  Unless I share enough in common with a coworker to not speak about work after-hours, I don't socialize with them.  I think you made the right decision.