Sometimes you just can’t help being attracted to people in your workplace and before you know it, you are showing signs you’re developing an office crush. It happens whether you mean it to or not. An office crush does not have to interfere with work, neither does it mean that you have a romance on your hands. However, it definitely means you are attracted to your co-worker. Below are seven signs you’re developing an office crush . . . and a few tips on how to avoid it.
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1. Lingering Eye Contact
You probably learned that eye contact and a firm handshake is good for business. While that may be true, sometimes lingering eye contact can indicate interest. If you find yourself checking out your coworker a little longer than normal then you’ve hit one of the signs you’re developing an office crush. Be mindful of your gaze and careful that no one notices. If you feel yourself engaged in eye contact a little too long then break away; notice something else.
2. You're Getting Closer!
When I spot something I like, I hone-in like a laser beam and move in attack formation. This makes shopping quite interesting. One sure sign that a crush is developing is an increased desire to be in closer proximity. When you feel drawn that way, make an immediate b-line to the restroom. That is, if you want to avoid them.
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It's like your personal space bubble has magically shrunk—and let's be honest, you're not mad about it. But honey, remember that cozying up too close could send the wrong signal. If your feet are unconsciously inching toward their desk every time you're in the same room, it's time to re-strategize. Get a grip on those reins and perhaps redirect your path to the water cooler instead. Keep it cool and professional; after all, we're aiming for fabulous, not fired. Stay alert, stay smart, and save yourself from an office faux pas.
Frequently asked questions
Oh, it's all those butterflies when they walk into the room, constantly thinking about them outside work, or rearranging your schedule just to bump into them 'accidentally'. It's those little extra efforts you make to be noticed.
Totally! You spend so much time with your colleagues. Naturally, friendships can evolve into crushes. It's nothing unusual, but figuring out how to handle it can be tricky.
Look for signs like special attention, compliments, or them finding excuses to spend extra time with you. They might also get a bit jealous when you interact with other colleagues.
First, take a deep breath and identify your feelings. Next, set boundaries for yourself to keep it professional. It might also help to distract yourself with hobbies outside of work or spending time with friends.
It can get complicated because you have to think about potential workplace drama, your professional reputation, and the company’s policy on office relationships. Weigh those factors carefully before taking any steps.
3. Your Body Language Changes
At first, your demeanor is strictly professional, then something cracks in that façade. Your body language changes before you know it. Beware. You do not want to draw any attention to your attraction in the public workplace. If you want to avert your building crush then move along, don’t stop. Once you do, it’s all over.
4. You Have Lunch Together, Often
A working lunch is totally acceptable. If you find your day is full and very busy, sometimes your only option is to continue working through lunch. However, increased frequency or meeting at a semi-private location is a telltale sign of interest. Before you know it, your working lunch becomes flirtatious. If a flirtatious working lunch is your “bag, baby” then try to be as discreet as possible; your job and your reputation depend upon it.
5. Your Interaction Increases
Working in an office you see and interact with the same people. However, when it comes to your crush, your interaction increases. Intentionally or not, you find any excuse to interact as much as possible. If you feel these needs building and want to thwart them, then bring someone along. The presence of an additional office worker will help put the interaction into proper perspective. It will also keep the interaction brief and professional.
6. Intimate Thoughts
Obviously, when you work on a project you focus on the product and the people. It’s a subconscious and necessary way to keep your project organized. However, if find yourself preoccupied with thoughts about your co-worker outside of the office you may be developing an office crush. Often those thoughts are not always professional and get a little naughty, and sometimes they are down right drool-worthy!
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When daydreaming takes over and you catch yourself doodling their name during meetings, it's a tell-tale heartflutter you can't ignore. You might find your cheeks heating up or a giddy feeling whenever they message you about something trivial. These are little signals whispering to you that this is more than admiration for a colleague. It's crucial to acknowledge these feelings but also to put boundaries in place. Your mind should be a place of professionalism during work hours, so try to shelve personal thoughts for after-hours contemplation, keeping those two worlds apart for your own peace of mind.
7. You Notice the Way They Look in Their Clothes
At first, you notice these things to be nice because you simply like the look. The line, color, and cut all catch your attention. Who doesn’t love a great outfit? You watch the way the fabric moves or how the clothes fit and it attracts you. You find yourself complementing your crush often and stare lots.
Good or bad, office crushes happen whether you intend them to or not. They can be fun but they can also be a little dangerous. Have you ever had an office crush? How did it work out for you? Do you have any tips on how to avoid it? Please, share!
Comments
doubleshot: I think if no one committed or married it's ok, otherwise no no no. My husband had an office crush and it went further that just that. It was devastating to our family. Just be careful as long as there is no one to get hurt.
Christine: I have an office crush currently!
Aundrea: how do you know if he likes you back?
Kimmy: If he is married, walk away! Its not worth it.
Missy: I have an office crush and I sometimes think he feels the same. His wife left him in august. We talk pretty often and he has told me everything that is going on with the ex. He has even shared videos of his kids with me. We have strong eye contact and when we talk he is always facing me. I think we are friends but is there something more?
Doctorliz: Very tempting and exciting. This is a breeding ground for cheating among women. So avoid it. If you're happy with your current relationship and dont want to ruin it, shift the excitement to your current partner. and If you have an understanding partner like me, I tell him the truth and I apologize. Tell him the reasons why, even shallow reasons. We spend more quality time together like the way we used to be.
Angie: I can't stop thinking about my office crush.
Biljana: Very bad but so exciting in the same time...
Celina: Not a good idea
sx: i have a major crush on my cute co-worker. Somehow i know it's not gonna work because he's older than me by 4 years but my heart just isn;t listening. I'm not willing to sacrifice my work performance/reputation just because of this crush. I think he likes me too at times then again another time he's cold which makes me think otherwise. Its messing my head up. I'm having such trouble to let it go. Pls help...
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