Beyond the Cubicle: How WFH is Changing the Dynamics of the Work Spouse Relationship (or How to Survive Sharing a Home Office with Your Work Spouse)

Well, folks, let me tell ya, the 'Work Spouse' has been around since the dinosaurs roamed the earth.

Y'know, back in the days before the Covid-19 pandemic, the office was a breeding ground for interpersonal relationships, and the label 'work spouse' was like a rubber stamp of approval for a third-party 9-5 romance. But now, with the advent of #WFH, it's time to question whether this whole 'work spouse' thing is really a good idea.

You see, #WFH means fewer opportunities for lunchtime rendezvous, after-work drinks, and late-night PowerPoint brainstorming sessions. It also means fewer business trips, team-building events, and Christmas parties. But, on the other hand, it could also mean fewer divorces. Studies have shown that WFH can lead to better work-life balance, which in turn can lead to stronger relationships.

But let's not forget, folks, the issue of the 'work spouse' goes deeper than just sharing space with the opposite sex. There's a lot of insecurity and fear of being judged by the person we love, which can lead to mistrust and emotional connections outside the relationship. 

So, what's the solution? Communication and effort, baby! Set boundaries, schedule regular check-ins, and make sure to prioritize time together as a couple. By actively working to strengthen the relationship, we can weather the challenges of WFH and come out stronger on the other side.

WFH has changed the game for interpersonal relationships, but with a little bit of effort and a lot of communication, we can maintain strong, healthy relationships despite the challenges. 

So, let's all raise a glass to the 'Work Spouse', but also remember to keep our home relationships strong. 

Cheers!

Five Points to Remember:

1. Prioritize open communication and regular check-ins with your partner to ensure that the relationship is strong and healthy despite the challenges of working from home.
2. Set boundaries and make sure to schedule time together as a couple.
3. Remember that the issue of the "work spouse" goes deeper than sharing space with the opposite sex and address any underlying feelings of insecurity or fear of being judged by the person you love.
4. Be mindful of the potential negative impact of #WFH on your personal relationships, and actively work to strengthen them.
5. Consider the benefits of #WFH such as better work-life balance and the potential for fewer divorces, but also be aware of the challenges and work to overcome them.