We have a colleague who has taken it upon themselves to be the life of the party. They make repeated and frequent attempts to lighten the mood in our office.

I understand that times have been tough in our industry and the economy generally, so this person might feel they are performing a kindness. But it’s not appreciated. Some of us put on a fake smile and pretend to chuckle along, but most of us are now fed up and really wish this Patch Adams stuff would stop.

What if this poor person feels like Sisyphus pushing the boulder up the hill, simply because they’re misinterpreting the smiling and chuckling as a sign?Credit: John Shakespeare

Goodness. “This Patch Adams stuff” might be the most coolly brutal description of a co-worker’s behaviour I’ve been sent. It’s also evocative – and I have to admit,........

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