Q. My partner wants to send flowers to me at work but it’s embarrassing. I work in an open area—heck, I don’t really have desk. What should I do when the flowers arrive?
A. Flowers! What a great problem to have on Valentines Day! But being embarrassed by open displays of affection or by the fact that all eyes are on you is a not a good issue to deal with at any time of the year. Here are a few questions to sort out your reaction to being the center of attention:
- Are you flying under the radar with subpar work? Because you owe someone a deliverable?
- Are you struggling and feel that you don’t have a full grasp on your job? If yes, you may feel slightly “embarrassed” most of the work week, concerned that you may be “found out.”
- Do you have one foot out the door? Are you making plans to leave the company?
- Is the issue the “flowers” or the fact that you are in a relationship?
Remember that being embarrassed or not wanting to be the center or attention likely stems from your assessment of the world. It is an “inside-out” issue, not an “outside-in” one—what’s important is your reaction, not your partner’s and colleagues’ behavior.
Aim your attention at making Valentines Day easy-going and romantic. In lieu of flowers, ask your partner to send Dove Dark Chocolate Minis. Everyone loves them—I know I do– and you can savor being the center of attention.