04 March 2024 , 16:20
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Holiday plans, family relationships, and their relationship with their other half, are among the top things women are more likely to discuss with their work colleagues – than their partner, a study has revealed.
Nearly half of working women (44%) would choose to discuss things such as social plans, or their physical and mental health, with workmates, rather than at home with their significant other.
And some of the top reasons for this include their colleagues being around when they need to vent (35%), offering impartial advice (36%) – and not judging them (24%).
Others feel they can get a different perspective from their friends at work (26%), and are able to be more honest with them (30%) – and receive honesty in return (29%).
In fact, over a fifth (21%), of the 2,000 women polled, claim they feel relaxed after opening up to those at work – with 44% saying that their colleagues, both past and present, are among their closest friends.
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The study was commissioned by BlueIron, whose spokeswoman, Rachel Anthony, said: “We often associate strength with feeling physically strong – but we also get strength from the relationships in our lives.
“Whether it’s our colleagues, friends, or significant other, the people around us make us who we are. If we’re mentally strong, it can help us to feel tough in all walks of life – whether that’s physical health or otherwise.”
And three in 10 feel they can be more honest with their workmates - and receive honesty in return (SWNS)The study also found more than half of women (52%) feel they are open and honest with work colleagues about their personal life. Consequently, relationships at work help 42% of employed women get through their working day.
As many as 94% agreed it’s important to have people around you that you can have an open and honest conversation with.
As a result, a third feel mentally strong when having this kind of chat with friends – and a similar number (32%) find emotional support in the discussions they have with the people around them.
Nearly a third (32%) like to ensure their circles of friends come from all parts of their life – with school chums (37%), colleagues (48%), and fellow parents (20%) among those they are closest to.
The study, conducted via OnePoll, also found that speaking to just two people a day, be it in person, or via text or phone call, is enough to give women mental courage.
And other activities that women believe boost their mental resilience include spending time with their family (44%), exercising (32%), and participating in hobbies they are passionate about (27%).
Laura Clark, dietitian and expert for BlueIron, added: “This study just goes to show the importance of relationships in women’s lives to keep them feeling mentally tenacious. It’s important to nurture all relationships and take care of them, little and often if you can – much like our physical health.
“Good physical health has a huge effect on making us feel strong, and a good balanced diet is key to that. If we lack certain food groups, such as iron, this can make us experience symptoms like tiredness or fatigue.
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“To ensure you are feeling strong and energised, always ensure you include iron-rich foods – like pulses, meats, or dark leafy greens – in your diet.
“If your iron levels are on the lower side, try introducing an iron supplement that can help fight fatigue, and support the normal function of the immune system.”
TOP 10 TOPICS WOMEN DISCUSS WITH WORK COLLEAGUES:
- Holiday plans
- Their relationship with their partner/significant other
- Family relationships
- Social plans
- Professional/career advice
- Struggles with their children
- Physical health
- Relationships with friends
- Fashion advice
- Mental health