1. Recognize that most companies discourage employees from dating one another. If you’re considering dating a colleague, it’s important to understand that your employer is most likely against your decision to follow your heart rather than their policies. So while you may truly want to date this person, you should be honest with yourself and decide if it’s worth partaking in an activity of which your company disapproves. Is this a career risk you want to take?
2. Think ahead about the possible repercussions of a failed relationship. Speaking of risks, before you decide to date your coworker, it’s imperative to keep in mind how you’d feel if things didn’t work out between the two of you. After all, while you may have high hopes for a long-lasting connection with this person, it’s a known fact that many relationships don’t end up succeeding. So before you go on your first date, you first need to decide if working with an ex is something you’d be able to handle in the future.
3. Try not to date a subordinate. When it comes to dating a coworker, it’s also in your best interest to not date someone who reports to you. Sure, your intentions may be to stay completely judicious and fair, but it’s not uncommon for others to think that you’re favoring this person. And on the flip side, you may find yourself going out of your way to not appear as though you’re giving preferential treatment and end up engaging in reverse favoritism. With this in mind, do yourself a favor by not dating someone in this category.
4. Leave the romance at home. So if you decide to date a coworker, make a commitment to one another that you’re going to stay completely professional while at the office and refrain from any romantic behavior. In fact, by flirting (or engaging in more illicit activities), you’re actually opening yourself up to the risk of sexual harassment claims by creating a hostile working environment for your other colleagues. Remember, keep it professional so that you can keep your job.

The post Office Space: Here’s the Right Way to Start Dating a Coworker appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

1. You’re not making the first move. If you’re wondering why you’re staying in the friend category, the first step is to review your interactions with this person. In many cases, you may end up getting the friend label simply because you never took the initiative to actually ask her or him out. In fact, if you never truly made your intentions known, then it’s likely that this person sees you as a friend because you didn’t give her or him the clear impression that you’re interested. So rather than staying silent, take the not-so-subtle approach and make a move.
2. You’re afraid of rejection. With this in mind, another reason why you keep ending up in the friend zone is that you’re not taking any risks. However, if you’re too afraid of getting turned down, you won’t be able to turn your relationship with someone into more than just a friendship. It’s time to face the fact that rejection is part of dating, so get used to it, get over it, and get on with it.
3. You’re too available. Another reason why you keep ending up in the friend zone is that you’re trying too hard to win this person over. And while it may seem counterintuitive, bending over backwards for someone and changing your plans for her or him at the drop of a hat will likely put you in the running for BFF rather than BF. Remember, a little intrigue can go a long way.
4. You’re lacking confidence. An additional reason why you keep falling in the friend zone has to do with your self-esteem. In fact, if you’re feeling badly about yourself and refuse to see all that you have to offer, a potential love interest won’t be able to see it, either. The bottom line is that if you want someone to see you as boyfriend material rather than just a friend, you have to be your own best friend and believe that you’re worth it.

The post Reasons You Keep Ending Up in the Friend Zone appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

After all, she may be trying to play it cool and not totally reveal how she feels about you, and you may be left wondering if your budding relationship has the potential to turn into something more significant and long-lasting. Fortunately, by focusing more intently on both her actions and her words, you can actually determine her true intent.

With this in mind, there are the four clear signs that can help you recognize if she’s falling for you or if things are falling flat.

“She may be trying to play it cool and not totally reveal how she feels about you, and you may be left wondering if your budding relationship has the potential to turn into something more significant and long-lasting. But there are the four clear signs that can help you recognize if she’s falling for you or if things are falling flat.”

1. She recalls details of your conversations. One of the clear signs that she’s falling for you is that she remembers the particulars of your talks and discussions together. For example, if she happens to recall that you dislike cucumbers even though you only mentioned it once in passing, this is a clear example that she’s truly listening to you and values what you have to say. In a word, when she cares about the specifics of your conversations and uses this information as an opportunity to get to know you better, you can know for sure that she’s falling for you.
2. She goes out of her way to make you happy. Another tell-tale indicator that she’s falling for you is that she practices random acts of kindness toward you. However, these actions are in reality not random at all, as they’re clear evidence that you’re on her mind and that she wants to see you smile. For instance, if she picks up your favorite candy on her way over to your place, surprises you with tickets to a concert, and basically goes out of her way to make your life easier, this is an easy way to tell that she’s falling for you.
3. She opens up to you. An additional sign that she’s falling for you is that she’s forthright and honest with you. Specifically, when she feels comfortable enough to tell you about her past, reveals personal thoughts and emotions, and is completely candid and open with you, her words speak volumes about her feelings for you. In fact, when she can truly be herself around you and feels a strong sense of trust, you can trust in the fact that she’s falling for you.
4. She introduces you to the people closest to her. If you’re wondering if she’s falling for you, another tell-tale sign is that she wants you to meet her friends and family. To that end, when she introduces you to her crew and inner-circle, this is because she finds you significant enough to meet the other significant people in her life. In other words, if she wasn’t serious about you and/or didn’t see a future with you, then meeting her friends and family wouldn’t be in your future.

Is sex the only thing men think about? Is it their main goal? You will be surprised by the answer.

The post Even if She’s Playing it Cool, These are Tell-Tale Signs She’s Falling for You appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

For instance, you may suffer from FOMO and can’t help but wonder who and what you may be missing out on by devoting yourself entirely to your partner. There are also instances when a fear of commitment stems from one’s own doubts about the very nature of relationships in general. And if you’re someone who’s been hurt in the past, you may believe it’s easier to already have one foot out the door when you’re with someone in order to protect yourself and your heart.

However, breaking free from your fear of commitment is the way to experience a truly fulfilling, deep, and long-lasting connection with another person. And when you’re struggling with commitment, the good news is there are steps you can take right now to leave this fear in the past.

1. Have a real desire to get over your fear. If you want to overcome your fear of commitment, it has to be something that you—and you alone—truly want to do. After all, if your incentive to commit is stemming from an increased pressure from your partner, your efforts will likely be superficial at best because it’s not something that you truly want to do. Remember, as with any enduring behavioral change, the motivation and desire has to come from within you.

2. Take a closer look at your connection with your partner. When you’ve made a commitment to yourself to try and overcome your fear of commitment, the next step is to reexamine your connection with your partner. In fact, when you’re deciding to commit to someone in general, it’s important that you know this person well, are on the same page about your potential future together, and are in sync regarding what you’re looking for in a partner and in a relationship itself. And once you’re completely honest with each other (and yourself), making a commitment to this person will be an easier and more successful step for you to take.

3. Face your fear. As is said with many different types of fears, one of the best ways to triumph over it is to tackle it head-on. And that means taking a leap and making a full commitment to your partner. And while it may seem scary or difficult to fully give your heart to someone, devote yourself entirely to this person, and be in a vulnerable state, it’s important to understand that this risk is necessary in order to create a meaningful connection.

And yes, while some relationships dissolve and you may end up getting hurt, risking it all is truly worth the reward. In other words, when you commit to being all-in with your partner, you have everything to gain.

The post How to Overcome Your Fear of Commitment appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Be honest with your partner from the start. If you’re seeking to find the right balance between your career and love life, the first step is to be upfront and forthright with your partner regarding the time constraints placed on you by your profession. For example, if you’re someone who’s up at the crack of dawn, frequently stays late at the office, is constantly on-call, and/or works nights and weekends, it’s imperative that you let your partner know this from the start. That way, the two of you can be on the same page regarding the possible conflicts and time constraints that are placed on you simply because of the nature of your vocation.

Employ your time management skills. Another key step towards finding the right balance between your work and your partner is to take a closer look at your time management techniques. Do you tend to procrastinate? Are you underestimating the amount of time you need to finish various tasks and assignments? Are you prioritizing your work projects efficiently? When you really take the time to review and revise your current time management strategies, you may find time-saving opportunities that can enable you to enjoy more time out of the office and out with your partner.

Reevaluate your priorities. If you’re searching for a real balance between your work life and your love life, it’s also imperative to take a closer look at your priorities in general. In fact, if you feel as though your work responsibilities are so overwhelming that you barely have time for yourself, let alone your partner, you should look for opportunities to prioritize, delegate, and say, “No.” After all, if you have no time for a life outside of the office, you’re actually on the path towards occupational burnout — and it’s likely that the spark between you and your partner will burn out as well.

Plan ahead. When your goal is to balance your career and love life, it’s also important to plan ahead with your partner. In fact, many couples will create a joint calendar so that they can schedule pre-set times to be together, and when these particular dates and events are on the horizon, you can make a concerted effort to prioritize these types of occasions and plan accordingly. And while there may be unforeseen circumstances that may cause you to be late or even have to reschedule, placing importance on being with your partner is actually what lets her or him know that she or he’s important to you.

Be present. In order to find a true balance between your job and your partner, being fully present when you’re with each other is one of the greatest gifts that you can give this person as well as yourself. For instance, rather than staring at your phone, thinking about what transpired at the office, and/or fixating on work issues when you’re together, you should be mindful and focus on the present moment. That way, the time that you do spend with one another will be truly meaningful, and you can enjoy a much-needed reprieve from your preoccupation with your occupation.

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“It’s important to let your friends and family be there. Getting a fresh perspective from the people who know you best and care about you most can be an integral part of the healing process, especially since they can often provide words of wisdom, personal anecdotes, and even a good laugh”

Do take time to grieve. The first major breakup do is to take the time you need to deal with what’s transpired. Breakups can be draining on your emotional health, and it’s important that you let yourself experience disappointment, sadness, or whatever else you may be feeling. So rather than brushing it off, putting on a brave face, and pretending that the breakup doesn’t bother you, it’s important to face your emotions head-on instead of stuffing them away — that way, you can work through your feelings and come out stronger as a result.

Do lean on your support system. When it comes to dealing with a breakup, it’s also important to let your friends and family be there for you during this time. Getting a fresh perspective from the people who know you best and care about you most can be an integral part of the healing process, especially since they can often provide words of wisdom, personal anecdotes, and even a good laugh. In a word, when your support system wants to be present for you, it’s in your best interest to let them.

Do enjoy your favorite activities. After a breakup, it’s critical that you continue to partake in the passions and pursuits that are important to you. And while you may feel like staying in and saying farewell to the activities that you once enjoyed, the right move towards moving on is to get up and get moving. For instance, don’t neglect your Saturday morning yoga class, keep showing up for your softball league, and make a cameo at your friend’s birthday party. Life goes on after a breakup, so make sure that you don’t miss out.

Don’t stalk your ex on social media. In the aftermath of a breakup, it’s also key that you refrain from certain behaviors that can be detrimental to your overall wellbeing—namely, keeping tabs on your ex on social media. And while you may be tempted to know what your ex is up to, see who this person’s hanging out with, and where she or he is, the more you focus on your ex, the harder it is to focus on a future without this person. Remember, when it comes to your ex and social media, you should block instead of stalk.

Don’t be hard on yourself. When you’re dealing with a breakup, it’s equally important that you’re not blaming yourself for what went down between you and your ex. And while you may find yourself fixating on what went wrong, what you could’ve done differently, and what led to your relationship’s downfall, reliving every interaction isn’t a beneficial action in any sense. Rather than spending your time being stressed, anxious, and mad at yourself, use this as a time for self-care and self-improvement instead.

Don’t be a pessimist. After a breakup, many people feel as though they’re never going to find another partner. However, this simply isn’t true, and staying positive is the only way to make this happen. After all, your breakup doesn’t mean that you’re destined for a life of singlehood, and it absolutely doesn’t define your identity. And as long as you continue to recognize all that you have to offer, believe that you’re worth it, and remain optimistic, you’re laying the groundwork to find a meaningful and long-lasting relationship with someone new.

The post The Dos and Don’ts of Dealing With a Breakup appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Be considerate. If you truly want to impress a woman, you should opt to be a kinder and more generous person. To that end, being viewed as a “nice guy” is actually something that’s highly appealing and attractive, especially to a woman who’s looking for a deep and long-lasting relationship. On the other hand, if you treat a woman poorly, disrespect her, and make her feel expendable, your lasting impression will be a negative one.

Be honest. When you’re trying to impress a woman, honesty is truly the best policy. In fact, if you’re totally forthright with her as well as dependable, a woman will be drawn to your openness and trustworthiness. So rather than playing games, holding back your true feelings, and/or keeping her in the dark, choosing to be straightforward, honest, and reliable will make a far greater impact in every respect.

Be a better listener. If you truly want to impress a woman, another important step is that you have to be able and willing to listen. In other words, if you’re fully present when she’s speaking, you value what she has to say, and you commit to understanding her point of view, she’ll view you as far more impressive. To that end, if you’re able to recall details of particular topics that she mentioned to you, whether it’s her favorite type of chocolate or a funny story about her chocolate-colored lab, your listening skills will make a sound impression.

Be happy. If you want to impress a woman, being an optimist is key. In fact, having a positive outlook, making the most out of sticky situations, and choosing to be happy will likely result in a woman choosing to be with you, especially since spending time with an upbeat person is far more enjoyable on many levels. On the flip side, if you’re a pessimist who tends to see the worst in others and who views the glass as half empty, your attempts at impressing a woman will be empty as well.

Be yourself. When looking to impress a woman, you should put having high self-esteem high on your list. In fact, confidence is always an attractive quality, and you have to believe you’re impressive if you want others to have the same impression, especially when it comes to drawing a woman towards you. And while this certainly doesn’t mean that you should be full of yourself, arrogant, or overbearing, it does mean that you should recognize what you have to offer so that she can recognize it—and be wowed by it—as well.

The post What Actually Impresses a Woman? appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

You arrived late. While you may think that being fashionably late to a date is the right move, it can actually be the motivation for why she moved on from you. In fact, being late to meet a woman can imply to her that you’re flakey and unorganized, but more importantly, that she’s not a priority. And when your very first interactions with someone show that you have no real regard for the importance of her time and that you aren’t concerned with making her wait, she likely won’t wait to ghost you in return.

“Did you do most of the talking? Did you find yourself speaking over her or even interrupting her? If you had more of a monologue than a dialogue, it’s not surprising that she disappeared before the next act.”

You didn’t get off your phone. Another reason why she played the ghost card is that you couldn’t put down your phone during your time together. And if you spent the date being distracted by a constant influx of texts and emails, you should get the message that focusing on your phone rather than on her is a big mistake.

Being preoccupied by your phone inhibits your ability to really get to know the person you’re with, and when your phone is your main concern, she knows that she’ll never be.

You dominated the conversation. If you’re haunted by the fact that you got ghosted, it’s important to take a closer look at the conversation that you had with one another. Did you do most of the talking? Did you find yourself speaking over her or even interrupting her? If you had more of a monologue than a dialogue, it’s not surprising that she disappeared before the next act.

And while you should of course feel free to open up and share things with her, it’s just as important to listen to what she has to say as well. In a word, if she doesn’t feel heard, you won’t likely hear from her again.

You fixated on your ex. Speaking of conversations, another reason why she ghosted you is that you continually brought up your ex as a topic of discussion. In fact, mentioning an ex during your time together can often be interpreted as a sign that you still have feelings for this person.

To that end, even if you talked about your ex in a negative light, this can still give off the impression that you’re hung up on the past. And while there’s certainly a time and a place for you to discuss your relationship history with a new love interest, using it as an icebreaker is going to cause her to ice you out.

The post Can’t Believe She Ghosted You? Here’s Why appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

At the same time, your family may be completely enamored with your partner, and their positive feelings toward her can be powerful enough to influence your behavior going forward. In particular, their reaction can further strengthen your affection for her and perhaps even help you to see her as someone who’s truly marriage material.

On the other hand (so to speak), when your family’s not mirroring back the admiration that you feel towards your partner, you can end up second-guessing yourself. And rather than popping the question, you may feel that you should put a stop to your relationship instead.

In a word, when it comes to your family’s opinion about your girlfriend, their thoughts and beliefs about her do matter — to an extent. After all, you’re the one in the relationship with her and not your family. However, if there’s a disconnect between how you feel about your partner versus their sentiments, it’s important to have a real conversation with them about why this is the case.

Specifically, you need to ask them exactly what’s causing their discontentment and/or disapproval of her. Do they find her controlling, possessive, or just plain rude? Or is it that she seems cold and closed-off when you’re all together? Once you openly and honestly discuss what’s at the root of their displeasure with her, you and your family can make an informed decision together about how to proceed from that point. For instance, perhaps you’ll try to be more cognizant of the behaviors that your family finds unsettling, while at the same time, your family will make a concerted effort on their part to break down the wall and initiate conversations with your girlfriend to try to get to know her better.

But in the end, it’s important to remember that the decision to be with your partner has to come from you and you alone. And while you should definitely take into account your family’s opinion of your partner, both the good and the bad, it’s you who gets to ultimately decide whether it’s worth being with this person. Besides, there’s always the possibility that your family adores your partner, but it’s you who’s not convinced that she’s the one for you. It’s for this very reason that although you should respect and take into account your family’s point of view, it’s your opinion of your significant other that’s the most significant of all.

The post Does Your Family’s Opinion of Your Partner Matter? appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Sure, everyone has quirks and idiosyncrasies, but if you’re having more than the occasional issue, it’s imperative to take a closer look at your partner’s actions so you don’t miss the four relationship red flags which should put you on red alert.

Your Partner is Controlling

Has your partner ever told you who you can and can’t hang out with? Has this person ever insisted that you dress in a certain way, behave in a certain way, and basically do what you’re told? If your partner is demanding that you fall into line, you should be making a beeline for the door, as this type of controlling behavior totally crosses the line.

After all, being in a relationship doesn’t mean that you’re supposed to lose your autonomy and sense of self, so if your partner is making a power play and telling you exactly how you should act, there’s absolutely no reason that you should stay and play along.

Your Partner Constantly Badmouths an Ex

While it’s normal and natural to have conversations about your past relationships, your partner’s incessant need to put down an ex should actually raise a red flag.

And while you may think it’s a positive sign that your partner views her or his ex in such a negative light, this type of continuous fixation should really leave you wondering if your partner is still into this person and is merely trying to convince you (as well as herself or himself) that she or he’s moved on. In the end, if your partner is still obsessing over an ex, it’s time to add yourself to her or his list of exes and end your relationship.

Your Partner Acts in a Jealous Way

If you’ve noticed that your partner quickly and easily becomes green with envy, this is a major red flag. And while jealousy is something that can arise in a happy and healthy relationship, it becomes an issue when your partner’s feelings of jealousy are seemingly unrelenting.

For instance, if you constantly have to deflect your partner’s accusations that you’re flirting with someone, if she or he’s troubled by your close relationship with a friend of the opposite sex, or if the very mention of the hotness levels of a certain celebrity sets your partner off, it’s in your best interest to break your relationship off.

Your Partner is Overly Needy

Everyone wants to feel needed and significant in a relationship. After all, if you felt completely disposable and unimportant to your partner, you wouldn’t want to be with this person in the first place. However, if your partner acts in a needy and clingy way, it’s you who needs to realize that this behavior is problematic.

Specifically, if your partner hates it when you go out and have fun without her or him, incessantly needs reassurance about your true feelings towards her or him, and/or texts you non-stop throughout the day just to check in and know where you are, these desperate actions are actually red flags that shouldn’t be overlooked. Your partner’s life shouldn’t revolve around yours, and if this person is relying on you for every single thing, you should opt to be single instead.

The post Relationship Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.