Workplace Relationships
Hi Abbie, I really need your help. I secretly have a big crush on someone I have been friends with since first grade. I want to tell them how I feel, but I think they only see me as a good friend. To complicate things even more, they are also my coworker. I am worried that if I tell them my feelings, it will make the workplace awkward no matter their response. What should I do?
This definitely seems like a tricky situation. I believe that good friendships require honesty and vulnerability. I think you should pick a good time and tell this friend how you feel. This isn’t easy, but you won’t know how this other person feels without asking them. If they like you back, then you two can discuss boundaries at work so you and your coworkers aren’t uncomfortable. If they don’t share your feelings, that's ok! I give you big props for putting yourself out there since it isn’t easy! Take some space to process whatever you may be feeling, and invest your time and energy elsewhere. Work may be awkward for some time, but if you can, see if there are ways to get some space from your friend (eg. try to work different shifts if possible). Eventually, you will move on, and then you can decide if you want to try and rekindle your friendship. Considering that you two have been friends for such a long time, I think your friendship could survive this given enough time.
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