Beware of putting controversial information on a social networking site. You may not know it, but people are doing some research into your background. If a recruiter or potential employer doesn't like what they see, you'll be passed over for another candidate. That doesn't seem fair, but it's reality. Take pains to put added security measures on your profile, but be aware that this information can always be obtained by anyone who really wants to get it.

It's difficult to communicate with someone who is wilfully ignoring you. This passive aggressive technique is starting to unnerve you. You're a practical person who believes the fastest route between two points is a direct line. When your lover or best friend refuses to answer direct questions, you throw up your hands in disgust. Don't let your disgust undermine your professional reputation. If your employer thinks you're being uncooperative, you will suffer for it.

You're a little worried about a loved one's health. It always concerns you when you see someone indulging in risky behaviour. Someone who isn't eating well or abusing their body with drugs and alcohol needs a reality check. Reach out to your friend and share your concerns. They may treat you like a nuisance. If that happens, don't press your point. It may be necessary to keep your distance for the next few weeks. That way, you can't be accused of being an enabler.

You're having a great time, but there's lots of work to be done. It's time to put your toys away and get down to business. Stay off the Internet and stop checking your messages every five seconds. Plan to take regular short breaks from work. This will keep you focused and productive. If you reach a certain earmark by the end of the day, give yourself a reward. This may seem like a simplistic way to get through the day, but it will yield impressive results.

It's difficult to work out family problems. A stubborn relative won't listen to reason. Trying to hammer out a reasonable agreement will be like bashing your head against a brick wall. Wait a few days before broaching this painful subject. If you have to get power of attorney from an elderly or infirm family member, you must formulate a strategy. Read some books on eldercare for advice. The proper presentation will make all the difference. Fortunately, you're very stubborn and will stand firm in the face of resistance.

Communication breakdowns make it impossible to do any work. At times like this, just go with the flow. If your computer or phone isn't working, send it in to get fixed and find some amusing distractions. Is the stress getting to you? Go for a light workout at the gym. Take a brisk walk through a beautiful neighbourhood. You have a tendency to store up tension in your body. Pretty soon, you'll forget your troubles and enjoy the change of pace.

Financial worries force you to revise plans at the last minute. You might have to cancel a trip or change your reservations. Take this opportunity to shop for discounts on airfares and accommodations. A little persistence will pay off. A youngster may ask you for an expensive gift. It makes you feel terrible to deny anything to your young friend, but try to maintain perspective. Treat this as a lesson in character building. You've seen what happens when children are spoiled. Don't make the same mistake.

Beware of adopting a know it all attitude. You've got an impressive amount of experience, but it isn't necessary to emphasise it with newcomers. Anyone who works with you will soon see the true extent of your knowledge. If you listen more than you speak, you'll realise several of your colleagues are really quite talented. Together, you can make some impressive inroads at work. Creating a new product line will result in big profits for you and your employer.

It will be difficult to get your head out of the clouds. You keep getting distracted by office chitchat and social media posts. Beware of missing an important deadline. Set an alarm as a reminder to stay on task. A disturbing secret about a relative or neighbour will be revealed. Try not to jump to conclusions. We all have elements of our personal lives that we'd like to keep private. That's becoming increasingly difficult in the electronic age. Be compassionate.

You could get bad advice from a well meaning friend. Weigh their comments with a big dose of common sense. If a financial deal seems like it is too good to be true, it probably is. Keep your money safe in a secure interest account. You work too hard to throw resources away on a get rich quick scheme. It's tempting to bend the rules for a friend or relative, but don't. Using your influence to do someone a favour will undermine your reputation.

Unfavourable publicity makes you uncomfortable. When faced with a situation like this, the only thing you can do is issue a sincere apology. Own up to your mistakes, and vow to do better. Follow up your words with actions. If people see you trying to make amends, they'll give you a break. Everyone makes mistakes, and you're no different. Remember this the next time you are forced to deal with someone who embroiled in a scandal. You can be kind without making yourself open to manipulation.

Disagreements over religion, politics, or cultural beliefs are tearing your professional circle apart. It's time to establish a more respectful tone. By treating everyone with dignity, everyone will become more productive. That applies to everybody. Each member of your team should be permitted to contribute, no matter how other members of the group feel. If the prospect of working in a diverse community is too offensive to some, they should probably leave.