We’ve all been there, babe. One minute you’re sipping your third reheated coffee, drowning in spreadsheets, and the next, bam! Your brain’s starring you in your own personal rom-com, co-worker edition.
But before you start doodling Mrs. Tall-Dark-and-Cubicle on your meeting notes, let’s hit pause. Because not every office crush deserves a plot twist. Some are best left in the “fun but fictional” folder.
Let’s break down the seven office crushes you should absolutely leave in the daydreams, plus how to channel all that romantic energy into something way more satisfying (and drama-free).
1. The Charismatic (But Taken) Manager
You know the type: charming, whip-smart, always remembers your cat’s name, and gives feedback that makes you want to frame your performance review. Oh, and married. Or deeply entangled.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
Sis, that ring is not invisible. Even if there’s “trouble at home,” getting tangled in someone else’s unfinished business will turn your career (and your heart) into collateral damage.
The power move:
Channel that crush energy into professional mentorship. Learn from their brilliance without catching feelings. Future you will thank you when you’re negotiating your next raise, not sobbing into Pinot Noir.
2. The Work Husband Who’s All Talk, No Text
You share inside jokes, lunch runs, and harmless flirtation. He makes the workday sparkle, but outside the office? Radio silence.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
If the spark only survives under fluorescent lighting, it’s not chemistry, it’s proximity. Don’t mistake convenience for connection.
The power move:
Let the “work spouse” stay just that. If you want real romance, save your heart for someone
3. The Overachieving Alpha With Zero Boundaries
You admire their ambition, and their 11 p.m. Slack messages. Their work ethic? Inspiring. Their respect for your downtime? Nonexistent.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
When the boundary between “partner” and “bossy life takeover” blurs, so does your self-worth. You deserve a love life, not another performance review.
The power move:
Set (and enforce) boundaries like the queen you are. Ambition is sexy, but mutual respect is non-negotiable.
4. The Serial Flirt With Everyone
Today it’s your desk. Yesterday it was Marketing. Tomorrow? Facilities.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
You’re not special, you’re next. And while it feels great to be seen, it feels awful to be played.
The power move:
Instead of craving validation from a human emoji, remind yourself: real attraction is exclusive, not recycled.
5. The Brooding Genius Who Can’t Commit to a Deadline, Let Alone a Relationship
You adore the deep thoughts, the tortured eyes, the “I was up all night thinking about strategy” vibe. But somehow his commitment ends at brainstorming.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
Unfinished work = unfinished emotional availability. If his projects are always “in progress,” so will your situationship be.
The power move:
Save your emotional investment for someone who can finish what they start, including clear communication and actual commitment.
6. The “We’d Be Perfect…If Timing Were Better” Ex
Same office, new quarter, same old feelings. The “what if” game is strong with this one.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
If the timing hasn’t worked after three team reorganizations and two budget cycles, it’s not timing, it’s compatibility.
The power move:
Closure is a productivity hack. Give yourself the gift of emotional bandwidth for someone new. The past can’t offer promotions, and neither can he.
7. The Mysterious New Hire With a Jawline, Not a LinkedIn Bio
So cute, so mysterious, so… un-vetted.
Why it’s fiction-worthy:
You don’t know his last name, but you’re ready to plan coffee runs for life. Slow your scroll, queen. Mystery is fun, but compatibility is clarity.
The power move:
Get to know someone before your imagination hires them for “potential soulmate.” Attraction is the appetizer, but compatibility is the main course.
The Bottom Line:
Office crushes are natural. Acting on the wrong ones? That’s optional.
So next time your heart starts doing cartwheels in the break room, ask yourself: Is this a plot twist, or just another rerun?
Now spill the tea , which office crush archetype have you been tempted by? Let’s hear it in the comments!