There’s a new book out about the importance of having friends at work. I am fortunate to have gathered friends from places I’ve worked from my first job at McDonald’s (I was 15 and my friend Jenny’s dad owned the joint) to my current one. The book, Vital Friends, The People You Can’t Afford to Live Without by Tom Rath, reports that people who have a best friend at work are seven times more engaged in their job, are more efficient, have better relationships with their clients and are more likely to innovate and share new ideas.

I’ve subscribed to this philosophy for years and so am excited that someone has researched this and developed a book about it.

I’ve also been giving this idea much thought, as one of my best friends at work is moving on. I will miss her terribly as she is one of the world’s great thinkers and a kind and generous soul. We share a love of books and learning and have bonded over not only our work, but the other ways we enjoy life, as well.

I take some comfort in reflecting upon the collection of friends I’ve gathered along the way including Jim, who I met during my college-job years; Judy, who is my hero in so many ways; Danielle, who, while I hated the job where we met, kept me sane and relieved to have a companion on the journey; Melissa, who, though miles apart is never far away from my thoughts or my fingertips; and Shawn, who, when he left before I did, made me realize that he was the reason I stayed. All these friends with whom I worked, who made it possible for me to learn, earn and be happy, have stayed in touch, even though the relationships span 15 years and many, many miles.

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