So I RSVPed to a party of a former colleague but I took a gander at the guest list and decided to back down and here’s why. Leaving a job is like a break up–it can be ugly or amicable. Either way there needs to be a cooling off period a “break” if you will. When I split my job a month ago I wasn’t angry but I very much wanted to move on. And seeing old colleagues–the ones I did and did not like–at a party where all we have in common is my old job just wasn’t the way I wanted to spend my Friday night. I felt bad because the host is a nice guy but moving on requires distance. I cleansed me email, text messages, phone numbers etc. The break up ritual is a process many of us are familiar with. And I stick by my decision but I’m wondering if others think it was the right thing to ditch?


Nothing wrong with your approach. I feel like you. In the past, I handled separation both ways. But came to prefer the clean break. It was easier for me to move forward.
With that said, I do think it’s important to maintain professional relationships that were positive. You just never know when you might need to call on someone for a reference, or they might look you up for a gig. It’s a cliche but so true: Don’t burn bridges.
While I can understand the need for distance at this time, I agree with IF on the need to maintain professional relationships. Networking is invaluable.