We all know that religion and politics are topics not to be discussed in the office. But inappropriate personal issues start creeping up too. Here's when personal becomes too personal.

Whether you’re bumping into your colleagues in the cafeteria or waiting in line for the copier, chatting to your colleagues is natural and generally good for your health. But when it comes to the seemingly innocent everyday topics, when does harmless become too much information?

Let us fill you in...

1. Your health problems

Informing you colleagues that you've caught the flu is one thing. But giving the gory details of your visit to the gynecologist or your chronic illness is unwelcome. 

Not only will your colleagues blame you when they've had to take the day off because they've contracted the same illness, but your boss will wonder if your health will keep you away from doing your job. If you have a serious health issue, rather discuss it with your employer.

2. Your wild weekend escapades

Because you spend 8 hours of your day with your colleagues, you'll naturally form bonds with some of your them - which may carry over to spending weekends together. That’s great when you’re part of an office clique and can reminisce about the weekend’s shenanigans. But if you don't share the same circle of office friends, this can quickly become old and annoying.

If your late night outs are going to become the topic of every morning, your manager will start questioning your commitment to your work, especially if they take place during the week. So spare some feelings for your colleagues and keep your weekend stories far from your boss’ ears.

Does your boss distrust you?

3. Your relationship problems

Problems you’re experiencing at home; whether with your spouse, children or your parents, should not be brought into the office. Personal life issues only make your colleagues uncomfortable and your boss might start wondering if they’re distracting you from your work. 

The same applies when the love bug has bitten you. The more you call your boyfriend to hear his dreamy voice, the more work you don’t accomplish. Remember too, that love doesn’t take care of the bills.

4. Your dream career

It's all good and well that you dream of starting your own business one day or earning more money. But discussing this with your colleagues, let alone your boss, is annoying and will prompt your boss to question your loyalty to the company. 

If the damage is already done, perhaps it's time for you to move on.

5. Your accumulating debt

You're broke and are struggling to meet your bills every month. It's awful, we know. But moaning about your massive debt accumulation in the office is as uncomfortable as waiting for a friend to pay you back money he borrowed over a year ago. Don't do it!

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