Dear Doris,
Since the COVID pandemic, I have been working as part of a remote team, dispersed across the UK. To help us “connect”, my boss has sent out a series of outlook invitations to team building days, but the thought of traipsing into the city drains me of energy. On reflection I think my anxiety might stem from the time I was invited to a team building event which was effectively a group outing to a Burlesque show. The middle-aged guy who arranged this, clearly enjoyed himself but it made me feel uncomfortable. What should I do?
Dear reader,
COVID is still very much with us, so I completely understand. I can assure you that you’re not the only one in this pickle, feeling all sorts of anxiety as you venture out into the big wide world again!
It is barbaric to me that you went to a burlesque show for work! What on earth did you wear? In my day a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking but now heaven knows anything goes! But listen pet, that was a one-off incident in your past and just because you had this experience once it doesn’t mean that you will be subjected to similar events in the future. The one think you can do is to control your controllables. Get involved and try and influence the choice of future events. For now, I would tentatively accept the invitations and send a separate email to suggest some alternatives that you’d love to partake in. Just think of all the fun you could have with your team…perhaps an afternoon tea or a walking tour where you can chat to colleagues? Just make sure you don’t get stuck with Mr Knockers and cover yourself well…
Best of luck love