Social Distortion, Part II
Let's jump right into the worst that can happen. Well, there's a whole jungle of "worsts" so let's pick a couple of "winners."
RHETT BUTLER MANAGER MEETS SCARLETT O'THERAPIST
Isn't he wonderful and your shift supervisor! This not-uncommon match can occur whether the manager is male or female. It's especially common for hospitals to discourage this type of arrangement. It's also common for employees to circumnavigate the blockade by keeping it a secret.
Common misconceptions include that your companionship will be kept a secret, that your needs will take precedence over other therapists', and part B of needs being met entails that good ole Rhett will "give a damn" when you're in a spot.
BEEN THERE, DONE THAT THE WRONG WAY
My personal experience with the Rhett Butlers is that they do not, will not, and cannot rescue you. Their advice can also be suspect if they are put in a "me vs. you" situation. The illusion is that love (or lust) rises to the top. Sometimes...but so does sewage.
Excuses may range from "I only said I might be able to help you" to ignoring your comment about a raise that didn't go through. If it's a real relationship, your time together away from the department will address how the two of you will handle work related problems. Where relationships go when there are disappointments relating to the job indicate whether it's a relationship or a fling.
SO ... WHAT'S MOTIVATION GOT TO DO WITH IT?
Again, it's all fun when you're playing dress up so you can be at your best when you run into your work-amour. But remember other people are watching. The others may be as high up as administration, and they will notice the difference in your attire, manners and how easy you are to locate when on shift.
You might be more than happy to visit one sector of the department or hospital, and this can be a positive motivating force in doing jobs you'd normally shy away from. What are you going to do when the connection is disconnected, and staff is depending on you to make your normal, cheerful rounds?
Even if you're working different shifts (which may be an option for interdepartmental dating), the attraction to stay over and see your date can lead you to accrue overtime and build expectations. It's great when you get compliments, but if either of you pulls the plug on the personal interaction, it can lead to soap opera level drama.
NIGHTMARE ON ALVEOLI STREET
"Stalker" is a term thrown around with numerous levels of seriousness. Interdepartmental or other dating can result in having your sidekick in a bulimic text message fit. In rare cases, a well-kept romance gone wrong may force you to disclose any policies you've violated. If it comes to this, it's better to face the disciplinary action (if any) than to face off with a relationship gone out of control.