Celebrities know that every misstep, embarrassing moment, or poor decision they make will be broadcast everywhere. Rarely, this can enhance one's image, but more often such personal slip-ups are damaging. View this article about Michael Phelps:

Michael Phelps Apologizes to Bong For Hitting It So Hard

Amusing, perhaps, since this probably will not harm Phelps's ability to secure endorsements...in fact it may even make him seem a little more, well, human. But if you work in a corporate environment, it is unlikely that you would benefit from such exposure.

So how do you keep your personal life separate from your professional persona in a world where employers check the Facebook pages of job applicants, business is pleasure, and major deals are made over drinks? Depending on the industry in which you work, this issue may be more or less of a problem. Here are a few pointers for protecting yourself:

If you are meeting someone over drinks, DO NOT GET PLASTERED. Some strategies for preventing this are: adhere to a two drink limit; order something non-alcoholic - sparkling water or a virgin daiquiri; or, my favorite, order something gross, like a dirty martini. You'll drink it more slowly, I promise.

Do NOT discuss personal drama with professional contacts. Of course your personal life will come up in a casual setting - this is often how business alliances are made. But do yourself a favor and keep the conversations about your personal life limited to your hobbies, your pets, or your kid's tee-ball team.

Harness the power of positive statements. If you are chatting with a potential client or business partner, talk about the things you like, not the things you don't like. You want to leave an impression of energy and optimism, not cynicism.

Good luck, and behave!