My workplace —A Few That Stayed in My Heart

When I look back at the last four years in my office, I realize it’s been less of a workplace and more of a TV series. We’ve had plot twists, new characters, dramatic exits, and even a complete set redesign. When I first joined this office, it was just one cozy floor. You could look around and instantly know where everyone was sitting, who was sneaking in late, and who was already on their second cup of tea. Life was simple, familiar, and a little too predictable — but in a comforting way.

Then the great Seating Reshuffle happened. Desks were moved, people were relocated. We adapted, of course, because that’s what you do. But we didn’t know that it was just the beginning.

Then came the big expansion. We took over the first floor. Oh, the joy of more space! It felt like moving from a one-bedroom apartment to a duplex. But as with all good things, that too evolved… into a full-blown renovation. Fresh paint, new partitions, shiny desks — basically, the office got a makeover that even reality TV would approve of. It looked great — modern, bright, and fresh. But here’s the thing: in those four years, it wasn’t only the walls and floors that changed.

The PEOPLE did

But while the walls got a fresh coat, the real changes happened in the people.

New recruits joined, bringing new energy, skills, and personalities. A few familiar faces left — some for personal reasons, some for better opportunities. And while you always wish them well, the truth is, their departure leaves a quiet space. Sometimes, it’s just a physical empty chair. Sometimes, it’s a gap in your day — a voice you no longer hear, a presence you no longer feel.

When someone very helpful leaves, it’s not just their work that’s missed. It’s the small things — their quick solutions, their laughter during tea breaks, the way they made the office feel a little lighter. Maybe their seat has already been filled. Maybe the new person sitting there is wonderful at their job. But the bond you had with the one before can’t be replaced like furniture.

Over time, my right hand left. Then my left hand. And yes, my limbs — the people who made my daily work life run smoothly — also moved on. It felt like my personal Avengers disbanded. My customer care department, for example — oh, how dear they were to me! They were my go-to team when it came to scheduling interviews or posting advertisements. Reliable, quick, and always saving the day. (I mean they are still great)

Then there was the MIS guy — my computer wizard. I only had to say the word and boom! the work was done. Like a magic spell, but with Excel sheets.

And let’s not forget the energetic labour department. Most of them are new, but their enthusiasm could power the entire office Wi-Fi if needed. The housekeeping department? They’ve had their paperwork chaos days, but now they’re organized champions. Seriously, if there were a “Most Improved” award, they’d win it hands down.

Of course, in between these changes, people came and people left. Some departures left a polite wave and a LinkedIn connection request… others left a void. You don’t just miss their work; you miss their voice, their tea-time gossip, their “Did you hear what happened?” moments.

And yes, someone else may now sit in their chair, doing their job wonderfully. But you can’t help but glance over sometimes and think, This is where they used to sit… this is where we laughed about that silly thing.

Life moves on, the office moves on. The new employees are fantastic. But the atmosphere has shifted. The refreshment-time banter isn’t quite as spicy, the gossip grapevine isn’t as juicy, and some days just feel… quieter.. The old gossip circles have faded, the refreshment-time excitement has mellowed, and the familiar banter isn’t quite the same. You realize that life in the office, just like outside it, keeps moving forward whether you’re ready or not. This is the reality — offices, like life, evolve. Desks will be moved, walls will be painted, and teams will change. But the stories, the friendships, and the little absurd moments?

And maybe that’s the lesson. You accept it. You adjust. But every now and then, you pause, look around, and remember how it used to be. You smile at the memories, feel a small pinch of longing, and then… you keep going. Because the walls may get new paint, the desks may move, and the people may change — but the stories and moments you’ve lived here remain yours forever.