What you probably already know: Shakespeare wrote a great deal about love being the key to great wealth. He wasn’t referring to worldly riches, of course — though there is some truth to that. Studies show that healthy romantic relationships can boost career prosperity. Look at Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, the power couple whose influence spans music, sports, and pop culture. Since news of the relationship broke in 2023, the “Taylor Swift effect” has skewed the Chiefs’ majority fanbase female and led to a billion-dollar uptick in NFL publicity. The two are media darlings — celebrity news outlets, which are always intrigued by stars from different orbits colliding, clamor for every update, while fans keep the buzz going on social media platforms. But supportive relationships that come with career perks aren’t just for celebrities.
Why? The impact of relationships on work performance is backed by a plethora of research. One study found that a close romantic relationship can positively impact career success among politicians. The closer the couple, the more likely they are to share career goals — this increases the shared pool of resources that support goal achievement. In a 2023 survey of 1,000 people, 73% reported feeling happier at work when they’re in a healthy relationship, and researchers at Oxford University found workers are 13% more productive when they’re happy. Additional research suggests that partners provide much-needed social and emotional support that helps lower work stress. Being with a reliable partner may also lead to better paychecks: A 2014 study found a person’s conscientiousness influenced their partner’s job satisfaction, income, and even the likelihood of a promotion.
What it means: An individual who prioritizes the health of a romantic relationship is more likely to feel positive emotions, which can lead to a more successful professional life. But the reverse is also true: Conflict in a relationship can take a toll on a person’s focus and productivity while they’re on the clock. The vast majority of finance professionals from the 2023 survey said they struggled to focus at work when they’re in conflict with their partner, and nearly a third of divorced respondents said work played a role in their divorce. Income disparities among straight couples can also lead to challenges in relationship satisfaction — especially when a woman outearns a male partner. Choosing the right life partner is, as science has shown, a very important decision. No pressure.
What happens next: The bottom line? If you want to get ahead at work, try working on your relationship. As for employers, implementing policies that promote healthy work-life balance is an important factor in boosting productivity, morale, and engagement at the office. Stable, innovative, and profitable workforces are made up of workers who feel supported in managing their professional and personal lives. Faith in a company’s commitment to these support measures is under scrutiny as many policies — such as DEI initiatives and remote/hybrid work setups — change.
— Story by Cambrie Juarez
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