The relationship between a coworker can be both thrilling and hazardous for employees. On one hand, it brings excitement to their daily routine, but on the other hand, it can lead to tension in the workplace. Employees might feel guilty about cheating on their partner while also feeling embarrassed about having an affair with someone they share office space with. As a result, employees may rationalize keeping up productivity levels and managing emotional turbulence simultaneously.
Maintaining a secret romance within the workplace is difficult. Here are some ways employees can do so:
1. Keeping a professional distance from colleagues - This involves avoiding personal interactions outside of work hours. It means limiting communication outside of work and restricting physical contact as much as possible. If an employee wants to spend time with the person, they should schedule a lunch break during work hours rather than after or before.
2. Making excuses - When asked why they're late or absent from work, employees should have an answer ready.
Saying you had car trouble or were sick will suffice. This way, employees don't have to explain themselves fully, which could reveal the truth.
3. Limiting distractions - When working, avoid checking social media accounts or text messages that could expose evidence of the relationship. Instead, focus solely on the task at hand and stay in the moment. Don't let thoughts wander too far into the future or past.
4. Being mindful of body language - Avoid touching or staring at your coworker too much when in public. Be aware of how others perceive you and adjust accordingly.
5. Finding support systems - Seeking help from friends or family members who understand what's going on can be helpful. They can offer advice and act as sounding boards for any concerns.
6. Managing expectations - Understanding that relationships between coworkers rarely last long-term helps manage emotional turbulence. Realizing it may not go anywhere allows people to accept their situation without feeling guilty about what might happen next.
7. Pretending everything is fine - Smiling and laughing around colleagues even if you feel bad inside helps prevent suspicion. It also makes the affair seem less intimate and more casual.
8. Setting boundaries - Having clear limits on what can and cannot happen during work hours prevents potential conflict with other employees. This includes no physical contact outside of designated breaks or lunches.
9. Taking time off - If things get too heated, taking a few days away from work gives both parties space to cool down. Employees should remember they don't have to explain themselves unless necessary.
10. Ending the affair - Sometimes ending an office romance is necessary due to legal or ethical concerns. In these cases, it's best to do so amicably and professionally by informing your employer ahead of time. By following these steps, employees can maintain productivity while managing emotional turbulence linked to secret sexual involvement with a colleague.
How do employees rationalize maintaining productivity while simultaneously managing the emotional turbulence linked to secret sexual involvement with a colleague?
One possible way employees can rationalize maintaining their productivity is by compartmentalizing their emotions and focusing on work. This involves setting boundaries between their professional and personal lives and avoiding discussing their relationship with others at work. Additionally, they may feel that keeping the relationship a secret helps them maintain control over it and minimizes potential negative consequences such as office gossip or interpersonal conflict.