How should you view declining colleagues' after-work gatherings while feeling hurt when they stop inviting you?

You can decline after-work gatherings, but consider whether your choices fit the relationships you want. Repeated refusal reduces time together and may lead colleagues to stop inviting. These factors need consideration together rather than only assigning right and wrong.

A client with religious faith declined colleagues' meals and karaoke, and after several times received fewer invitations. Asking further revealed no desire for after-work friendships. I saw nothing wrong with that choice, but colleagues might feel repeated friendly invitations were rejected and wonder whether the person was difficult to get along with.

If you accept that pattern, understand it as a possible consequence of your choice. If it bothers you and you actually want greater closeness, consider changing your approach. Invitations offer opportunities to connect. Repeatedly refusing while feeling relationships are insufficient cannot simply be blamed on deities failing to protect you.

Ultimately your actions remain your choice. Clarify the life you want and examine how your conduct connects with current relationships. Then decide whether to accept circumstances or learn a way of relating that suits everyone better.