When I got the Slack notification about a social event at work, I had an immediate, gut reaction of "No." I quickly started brainstorming possible excuses and believable illnesses I could fake to avoid attending.
It's not that I have any avoidance or disdain for my company or coworkers. I'm actually quite fortunate - I work with a wonderful group of people at an easygoing organization where I feel respected and valued. They're a joy to collaborate with, and I genuinely appreciate my work interactions with them. However, the prospect of mixing my work and social worlds gives me a headache. I can envision myself in a decorated conference room, washing down a catering taco with a lukewarm White Claw, and it just feels unnatural.
I believe many others in my generation, Gen Z, would share this sentiment. I attribute it to the unique context in which we began our careers. Older generations tended to blend their professional and personal lives more seamlessly. My late grandfather would gather with his work friends at a Playboy club for cigars, steaks, and drinks. And it wasn't uncommon for my parents, who graduated college in the early 90s, to come home late from a work happy hour or social event.
But for my generation, the line between work and social life is more defined. Much of our schooling and early career experiences have been virtual due to the pandemic. I graduated college in 2021, when the world was still on hold, and started my career by freelancing remotely. Even my current full-time job was offered to me through a long-term freelance partner, without a formal interview process.
The end result is a natural barrier between my work and social spheres. Work exists primarily on my laptop through emails, Slack messages, and occasional office visits. Seeing it bleed too much into my personal life can feel unnatural. For me, building a vibrant social circle outside of work is a higher priority than extensive company socialization.
I'm an efficient worker who appreciates flexibility. I'm happy to collaborate productively with my colleagues and have great discussions. But I'd rather budget my limited free time towards activities and people I truly enjoy, without the overlay of work. For now, I will continue to politely decline company social events.