At work the other day, I overheard someone talking about a coworker’s divorce — like it was just office small talk.
It made me uncomfortable and got me thinking… why does stuff like that feel so normal to gossip about?
Have you ever seen this happen? How do you usually deal with it?

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Turn around and walk the other way. It’s one of those things where I’m not comfortable telling people how to have some dignity, but I’ve also been a part of that gossip in my younger years, too.

likesmart

Me too when I was younger somehow I would end up being part of it but starting to learn more boundaries and do as you said just walk away.

It’s gross and I hate that people feel comfortable doing this. However, it’s normal human behavior. Gossiping is a way to fit in a group and we evolved needs to fit in.

likehelpful

Hate these scenarios. Especially when the main character isn't in the conversation. I always say something to back up/support the person they're talking about, something kind. I want to at least give an alternate view point to challenge their small minds.

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It always feels so "icky" have some respect especially when people are going through really difficult times.

When ever I hear someone speaking about others and their struggles, I like to mention " hey I wonder if they need a mental pick up? Lets take them out for lunch and brighten their spirits

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Can we work together please! 🙏 That is amazing and I need to be more like this!

reminds me of the famous quote:
"Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people".

It's normal human talk. If it makes you feel uncomfortable and not them, maybe there is some trauma one has to look inward to ascertain.

Apparently, they don’t have enough to do there if they have time to talk about something that has nothing to do with them as if it was breaking news. I can tell you from experience you will not win on this and if this makes you that uncomfortable, you need to look for another job. Go to YouTube and watch videos from corporate clap back. You cannot change the workplace. All you can do is change workplaces.

That is why employees should not discuss their personal life in the workplace, because people will talk, which is unfortunate. Often times things are said Which is untrue.

They don't sound too busy? Give them something to do. Call DOGE - they can help.

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