I run a small pastry business after work, but I didn't want everyone at the workplace to know. Somehow, it has been found out, and a colleague has started making insinuating comments at every opportunity. Things like, 'Order us a cake,' or 'So, your salary isn't enough,' and so on. Do I have to deal with this kind of stuff in the office? Do you think there's a solution for this?
In my opinion, that friend may be jealous of your efforts to improve yourself. Because working on a boutique job after hours isn't easy; not everyone can do it. I think you shouldn't dwell on it too much, but if they keep implying things, directly ask them to their face, "Do you have a problem?"
To be honest, I think your lack of selectivity here at first is also a problem. I mean, you don't have to completely hide your private life at work, but it would be better if you were more controlled. Now you've both exposed yourself and feel uncomfortable. Perhaps prevention was necessary from the very beginning.
Such things happen often in the workplace. I can say that this is a kind of power balance issue. If you don’t like insinuating conversations, it’s usually better to approach that person with a more serious distance. When you don’t compromise on anything, the other side usually gives in.
Let me add this, actually this person is not someone very close. I mean, we didn't have a bond beyond daily greetings. But while my other friends support me, this person always creates a negative atmosphere. I don't know, maybe that's just their style, but it's quite annoying.
My girl, if I were you, I would just say I'm tired from work and running around. There's no need to explain at all. People are looking for problems for themselves, and they criticize what you do outside of work. If you don't respond, they'll get bored anyway 🙂
Actually, it's better if such things aren't shared at work. People get jealous, talk behind your back, and then attack from another angle. It's sort of like neighborhood culture. Right now, that person might be throwing shade, but tomorrow they could spread a different rumor. Draw the line thicker.
