Have you ever been at work and suddenly felt welll, NSFW? You may call it aroused, amourous, lustful, horny, turned on or just a strong sexual urge. Maybe it was triggered by an attractive colleague, or perhaps it was simply a random surge of hormones. Whatever the cause, feeling exceptionally romantic at work can be an uncomfortable and potentially risky situation to navigate. In this article, we'll discuss the challenges of managing sexual desires in the workplace while still maintaining professionalism and respect.
First, let's talk about why feeling aroused at work is so complicated. In most professional settings, there are strict social norms around sexuality and behaviour. Flirting or making sexual advances toward a colleague can quickly cross the line into sexual harassment, which can have serious consequences for your career and reputation.
Even if you are attracted to a co-worker, acting on those feelings can create awkwardness or tension in the workplace that can be difficult to navigate.
But what do you do when you can't shake those sexual urges?
Feeling turned on is a natural and normal part of human sexuality. It's not something to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.
However, it's important to find healthy and appropriate ways to manage those desires in a professional setting.
One strategy is to find ways to distract yourself when the urge hits. Take a quick walk around the block, listen to music, or focus on a task that requires your full attention. By redirecting your energy away from your sexual desires, you can often make them dissipate on their own.
Another approach is to talk to someone you trust about what you're feeling. It could be a friend, a therapist, or even a human resources representative at your workplace. By sharing your experiences with someone who understands, you can gain valuable perspective and support.
Workplace romances
There are times when sexual attraction at work can lead to positive outcomes. Many people meet their partners through work, and a mutual attraction can lead to a fulfilling relationship. However, it's important to tread carefully in these situations. Be respectful of your colleague's boundaries and their right to say no. If you do pursue a romantic relationship with a co-worker, it's important to be transparent with your employer and ensure that it doesn't interfere with your professional responsibilities.
It's also worth noting that feeling horny at work can be a symptom of larger issues in your personal life. If you're feeling stressed, unfulfilled, or disconnected from your own desires, it can be easy to project those feelings onto others in the workplace. If you find yourself struggling with these emotions on a regular basis, it might be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor who can help you unpack the underlying causes.
You are not alone in feeling aroused at work. A 2019 study found that 63% of workers had experienced sexual attraction to a co-worker at some point in their careers. By acknowledging that these feelings are common, you can take steps to manage them in a healthy and appropriate way.
63% of workers had experienced sexual attraction to a co-worker at some point in their careers.
Feeling aroused at work is a complex and often uncomfortable experience. While it's important to recognise that sexual attraction is a natural part of human sexuality, it's equally important to find healthy and appropriate ways to manage those desires in a professional setting.
Whether it's distracting yourself, talking to someone you trust, or seeking professional help, there are many strategies that can help you navigate this challenging terrain. By being respectful of your own desires and those of your colleagues, you can create a positive and fulfilling work environment for everyone. Remember: it's possible to be unstoppable without compromising your professionalism.