When I left my last job, we all went out for a few drinks after work and said goodbye and thanked everyone for their help and support over the time that I had been there. I found it less stressful and easier to cope with than if I had been in familiar surroundings.
In my lifetime, there have been far too many 'goodbyes"........so many, that it is hard for me to let people know me, get close, or to pursue friendships.
Still, there are people that touch me, teach me, give me something of value that I can take with me.
I am not comfortable with long drawn out goodbyes.........when it is time to go, it is TIME to go.
You have mattered", " I will remember you", " you have given me a memory", " you have served me well", are among the things that I have said...................say it ONCE, ( whatever you say ) and then, quite simply, quietly, go.
I kind of like to think of things that are unique to the relationship I had with each person that had a large impact in my life. If you and your friend "Mary" always had coffee together maybe get her a pretty mug with specialty coffee and write her a personalized note. And so on.It will mean something to both of you.
But if there are many people involved I would consider bringing a treat to the office and make a little speech.
I did just that today - I brought a nice morning tea and thanked those who had been helpful to me and gave some hugs. I accepted their support and love and was grateful for it.
If you were loved and supported, then they will think you have made a wise decision or that you are ruining yourself. It depends on what you tell them when you leave. Why are you leaving is the key.Is it for your best interest?
Are you doing what is best?
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.