Sexual attraction is an inherent part of human nature that cannot be suppressed or denied for long periods. When it comes to the workplace, it becomes difficult to handle these urges without proper management techniques. While some companies have strict policies against physical contact between employees, others allow certain degrees of touching under specific conditions. To help you understand how employees manage sexual tension at work, this article provides five effective strategies.
1. Establish boundaries: Every employee must establish clear boundaries regarding what they find acceptable and unacceptable behavior toward their coworkers. This includes avoiding flirting, asking for dates, making suggestive comments, staring, or touching. It also involves being aware of one's own emotions and behaviors and ensuring they do not cross the line. Boundaries can be communicated verbally or nonverbally through body language or actions such as turning away when someone gets too close or politely declining invitations.
2. Build friendships: Building friendships with colleagues helps reduce sexual tension by creating healthy platonic relationships that prevent unwanted advances. Friendship building requires getting to know each other outside of work hours, having lunch together, or going out after office hours. It also means showing genuine interest in a co-worker's life, hobbies, interests, or career goals. This way, both parties are comfortable enough around each other to discuss professional topics without feeling awkward or pressured into dating.
3. Stay focused on work: Focusing on work tasks during work hours prevents sexual tension from escalating into something more serious. Employees should prioritize completing assignments promptly and efficiently while staying mindful of deadlines. Avoid distractions like social media, gossiping, or personal calls/texts while working. Doing so sends a message that the workplace is meant only for business purposes and sets appropriate expectations for all employees.
4. Develop self-awareness: Self-awareness allows employees to recognize their feelings toward others without becoming overwhelmed or obsessed. They must acknowledge physical attraction but avoid acting upon it at work. Practicing self-discipline, meditation, or journaling can help maintain composure and control emotions. Being honest about one's desires and needs and speaking up when necessary will also create a positive work environment where everyone feels respected and heard.
5. Find alternative ways to release energy: If an employee finds themselves constantly thinking about someone at work, they may need to find alternative methods of releasing energy. Exercise, meditation, yoga, or therapy sessions can provide a safe space to let go of unwanted thoughts and relax mentally. Taking breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk outside, or eat healthy meals helps refocus attention away from co-workers.
Hobbies such as painting or music provide creative outlets that keep minds occupied with productive activities rather than fantasizing.
Managing sexual tension at work requires effort and discipline. Establishing boundaries, building friendships, focusing on tasks, developing self-awareness, and finding alternatives are effective strategies that any employee can use in the workplace. By taking these steps, employees can prevent awkward situations while ensuring a professional environment conducive to success.
What strategies do employees adopt to manage sexual tension at work?
Some employees may engage in self-control tactics such as avoiding eye contact, keeping physical distance, and refraining from personal conversations with the other person. Others may try to minimize their feelings by rationalizing that it is just a harmless attraction or reminding themselves of the consequences of acting on it. Some may resort to flirting with others outside of work or seek professional help to address their underlying issues.