Work-Love Relationships: Are They a Good Idea?

The good points:

• You are with someone who can relate to work-related concerns (e.g., meeting deadlines, co-worker conflicts, or management stress).
• You may be the type of person who feels great about seeing your partner each day at work and at home.
• You and your partner may be able to arrange “private meetings/luncheons” spontaneously throughout your week.

The not-so-good points:

• Often times, you and your partner will bring work-related issues home, leaving little room for other aspects of your relationship.
• You may not be the type of person who feels great about seeing your partner each day at work and at home.
• If the love relationship ends, it may be very difficult to maintain a positive working relationship.

Like every relationship (before entering one, that is), we consider pros and cons:  physical attraction, similarities, interests, personality types, closeness with families, spirituality, long term goals, and sometimes even financial stability (to name a few).

The same must be applied with someone we work with:

• Are love relationships allowed in the workplace?
• Is it acceptable if one holds a job with more seniority than the other?
• Is a balance between work and home attainable?
• Can professionalism be maintained in discussing crucial work conversations?
• How much information is too much information when talking amongst other co-workers about your relationship?

The work-love relationship adds complexity and may seem very different than previous relationships you’ve been in.  Call us today to receive guidance in your relationship.  Sometimes, providing each other with a neutral space to handle, cope, and achieve goals within your dynamic can be a very helpful solution.