How to Keep it Together at Your Job

Don't Gossip: 
   Especially under the guise of "sharing" what is going on with other people. This also includes those "updates" about people in the office, or individuals surrounding them. We all know that these aren't "just so you know..." It's information sharing at it's tackiest. Reasons being 1) You get a reputation for having a big mouth. 2) You get a reputation for being with or around certain people -other bigmouths.- 3) It's really unprofessional. People will question whether or not they can trust you with information, and you might get left out of something important or really fun. Also, you will inevitably be yapping about something just at the moment your supervisor walks by. Sweet.

Plan Ahead:

   Make a schedule, and write it down. Don't let yourself be caught by surprise on a project that's been in the works for the past two weeks, and you just forgot.

Know Your Consequences: 
   Every action has an equal and opposite reaction (quick name that law...) This holds true in the workplace. If you mess up, you will most likely have a consequence. Knowing your punishments may not stop you from messing up, but it will stop you from messing up on purpose, or being just lazy. At the very least, it can't hurt you.

Spouse/Fling Hunting at Work is Rarely a Good Idea:
   It can seem like a rather good idea. You have similar interests (presumably if you work together.) You get to spend time together during the day! Hurrah! In reality, they are more of a distraction than an enrichment of your life. If there is drama in the relationship, it will inevitably find its way to the office, and involve your coworkers. Bonus- if it doesn't work out, you're stuck working with them! Same goes for hitting on that person who turns you down. How are you supposed to work with them again in a completely professional sense? That never seems to be a consideration in the pondering of the initiator... Never date your boss, no matter how good of an idea it seems to be, and always know the company's policies regarding dating within the workplace. It may just save you a lot of trouble.

Leave Work at Work:
   It's hard on you when work follows you around. You aren't Superman; you can burn out. It is okay to demand, and take a break when it's needed.

Remember: No one is so completely in charge of you so as to give them an excuse to treat you like dirt. You have a right to be treated with dignity at your job. Don't be afraid to speak up, or leave if that isn't happening.