You’ve been spending more time at work than at home lately. You rarely see your friends anymore and the last time you went out for a meal, it was to pick it up and take it home. You’d like to meet a special someone, but even if you had more time to meet new people, you wouldn’t know where to start looking.

Single people looking for romance have a much better chance of find it at work than at the bars or on the Internet. Yes, there are advantages to an office romance. You can check out available singles during your work hours. Not to mention first introductions are less awkward as initial conversations are usually made within a work environment. People can get to know potential dates and see how they handle a wide range of situations. And most office romances that begin in the office tend to begin from friendships, not from instant physical attraction.

But office romances have pitfalls. There’s a possibility of being under intense peer and corporate scrutiny, and when it ends, what will life be like? Will you look around each corner to ensure your ex isn’t standing in the hallway, and avoid work functions for fear of running into your ex and his or her new love interest? That doesn’t sound like a great way to live.

If you’re still considering dating your co-worker, Monster.com has five reasons why it might not be such a good idea.

The Reality Of Romance

When love is in the air, logistics are the last thing on your mind, but the reality is that there’s no guarantee your office romance will end up happily ever after. Your heart may be soaring, but it’s important to keep your feet on the ground. If your relationship ends badly, one of you may need to leave your job. On the other hand, if it goes well, one of you still may have to leave if your company has a policy against dating fellow employees.

Be Professional

When you’re at work, work is your first priority. Picture this: You become involved with a co-worker in your department and then you’re promoted to manager. That co-worker is now your subordinate and you’re responsible for conducting reviews and if necessary, disciplining your sweetheart. Have you thought about what you’ll do in that situation?

Stay Focused And Be Discreet

You’ll need to start taking a lot of cold showers because you’re going to put a lot of energy toward keeping your office romance secret. And don’t use e-mail or instant messaging to communicate with your sweetheart, no flirting, never fight at work, don’t show any favoritism, and this should go without saying – no office hanky panky. You want people talking about your professional abilities, not fueling the rumor mill.

Privacy Goes Out The Window

You may think you’re having a private affair, but think again. The two of you may consciously or subconsciously affect your co-workers, not to mention alter your colleagues’ opinions and judgment when it comes to projects, responsibilities and promotions. Depending on your position and the company you work for, your relationship could make it more difficult for your department to function effectively.

The H Word

Odds are you didn’t even think about the possibility of harassment. If the relationship ends on bad terms, do you think your now ex-sweetheart will tell human resources you made unwanted advances? A harassment suit will definitely impact your career. Be proactive and join a professional association –- or two. They will provide the opportunity to socialize and advance your career.

If you decide to date someone from the office, use caution. If you work for a large company, consider transferring to another department. If that’s not an option because of company size or your profession, get a new job.