10 Lessons The Working World Has in Common with Dating

1. Don’t make decisions based on what you "should" want 
You'll get advice based on what’s worked for others, but only you can decide what's best for you. Explore your own interests and standards before accepting anyone else's opinion as fact.

2. Mutual respect is crucial 
This is a two-way street whereby establishing respect on both sides leads to healthier interactions. Treat each other with equal respect, dignity, and kindness and the relationship will go far.

3. Avoid toxic people at all costs
Not unlike the dating world, the world of work, too, presents its fair share of jerks. Anyone who is inconsiderate of your time, prone to narcissistic behavior, or condescending is an insecure person. That’s their problem, not yours!

4. Pay attention to red flags 
If you are subjected to public shame or embarrassment, feel psychologically unsafe, are silenced for having a different point of view, are penalized for staying true to your personal values, or if you generally feel uncomfortable, it's time to go.

5. Know when to say goodbye
Just like in dating, there's a honeymoon phase with work. Don't let cool factor or shiny perks make you blind to what you know doesn't jive well with you. What matters is that you trust your instincts before the situation becomes destructive.

6. Lean into the breakup
It’s okay to admit when things simply aren't working out. Reflect on the lessons learned from this (both negative and positive) and provide closure where you can. Heartbreak is inevitable on the path to finding a healthy, aligned, committed relationship.

7. You are worthy
Just as in dating, companies don't always turn out to be exactly who we thought they were in the interview phase. This can leave feelings of confusion, shame, and blame. Remember that hindsight is always 20/20! No situation should make you question your worth.

8. You should meet in person if things could get serious
It's hard enough to get a read on someone in person let alone through a screen. If the environment is remote or hybrid and you’re in the same geographical location, it’s worth the trip and the effort to meet in person.

9. Be open to networking
A relationship can be a stepping stone for something more in line with your long term goals, career or otherwise. I’m not saying to flirt ostentatiously with a competitive suitor or to try to poach talent away from a committed partnership. I’m simply saying to keep an eye out for others in your field (or playing field) who might ultimately be a better match.

10. If you have to change who you are to make it work, it's not worth it
If you take nothing away from this attempted thought piece other than this, remember that no situation - despite how cool it may seem - is worth sacrificing your authentic self. As soon as you start to lose sight of your true self and what matters to you in an effort to appease or impress someone, it’s game over.