12 signs you have a work spouse, even if doesn't feel like it

... and outside in the real world

Your relationship extends beyond the 9-to-5 world. You and your work spouse have also had plenty of adventures outside of the office.

You've got tons of inside jokes

Sometimes, your conversations are so riddled with inside jokes, it's like you're speaking your own language (which probably makes all your coworkers hate you, just saying).

You gossip together

You know someone is your work spouse when you can dish about everything from which intern is the most annoying to what you really think of your boss (after hours, if you're smart).

You go to them first

Whether you received a great promotion or you've just been chewed out by your boss, your work spouse is the first one you tell when something big happens.

You know their secrets — and they know yours

Strong relationships are built upon trust. As a result, if you've got a work spouse, you've likely shared things with them that you wouldn't tell anyone else in the office. And they've returned the favor.

You're real with them

When interacting with office friends, sometimes you have to be a bit fake in order to get along and remain professional. Not with your work spouse, though. You'll call each other out on your nonsense all the time. You can really be yourself around them and shed your workplace persona.

You help each other out

You know you can rely on this one colleague when you're feeling overwhelmed at work. And you'd be happy to return the favor whenever they need assistance.

You stick by them at social events

Happy Hour and holiday parties wouldn't be the same without your office boo.

You think about them a lot outside of work

Obviously, we all think of our friends from time to time. Still, if you're constantly daydreaming about one specific coworker, it's likely that they mean a lot to you.

You're terrified of them meeting your real significant other

The thought alone is horrifying.

If you're truly afraid of worlds colliding, you may need to reevaluate one or both of your relationships.

You talk about them constantly

Sure, maybe your colleague is truly just a fascinating, hilarious person. Alternatively, maybe the reason you're constantly bringing them up to your other friends is because you can't get them off your mind.