Holiday parties often provide a double edged sword to active and potential affair situations. They provide an opportunity to finally meet those people your spouse works with and also for your spouse to meet and greet who you work with. Attending parties together sends the message that the two of you are a couple. The two of you are a ‘team’. Whenever two people stand united, they can resist temptations and encroachments more effectively.
The down side to holiday parties is that the free flow of alcohol often leads to inhibitions being lowered. With those lowered inhibitions, some people do and say things that are inappropriate. Work mates or associates may make unwanted passes at you or your spouse. Be willing to talk with your spouse about these incidents rather than minimize or hide them. It is always easier to deal with problems that are seen than those that have not been seen. If you tend to be one of those who lower their inhibitions, take care to limit the amount of alcohol you consume. If your spouse is one of those who ‘loosen’ up with alcohol, you will want to talk with them about that.
Best Regards,
Jeffrey Murrah
