Jobs nowadays can be technically challenging and require a level head to perform at the standard required. When there is a conflict at work, a wounding comment can leave someone feeling sparred for the rest of the day and unable to complete their tasks. If we want to maintain a functioning team, it’s important to be sensitive to one another’s feelings. This is not always the case.

It is easier to let off steam in romantic relationships by occasionally hitting the roof. Shouting at one another. There is a frankness which can help get to the heart of an issue at speed, with the advantage of being able to make up afterwards through intimate activities. At work, the rules for conduct are different. More reservation is required. And often conflicts are kept hidden or are spoken about in a group, rather than one on one.

It can be frustrating to feel that the reasons we were hired to do a job are not the reasons behind whether or not we are able to progress at work. Carefully bringing people onto your side. Dodgy tactics. Manipulation. These all matter and together build resentment amongst those who are not naturals at playing the game, yet are excellent at what they do.