Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #8 — Be Friendly!

Picture: Counsel #8 — Be friendly! CR 149.1

Help keep your work atmosphere friendly! Whether you're the big boss or just starting out, a simple "Good morning" or "How's it going?" can go a long way in building a positive work environment. Show genuine interest in your coworkers' lives outside the office—ask about their weekends, hobbies, or family (being careful to not be intrusive or prying). When you make people feel like they're part of the team, everyone wins. Just remember to be mindful of time when socializing with coworkers. We all have work to do, so keep the casual chats short while on the clock. CR 149.2

Before you come to work, ask God to give you not only the gift of genuine friendliness toward your coworkers, but also of compassion. If someone seems burdened or sad, let them know you care. If you sense God’s Spirit leading you to pray for a coworker, offer to do so.^[142] CR 149.3

“A man who has friends must himself be friendly. But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NKJV CR 149.4

“There are those all around you who have woes, who need words of sympathy, love, and tenderness, and our humble, pitying prayers.” Ellen White in Sons and Daughters of God, p. 274 CR 149.5

Reflect: How do you find that balance between being friendly and stealing from the company with too much visiting on the clock? CR 149.6