Survive (and Thrive!) Your Office Holiday Party

Holiday office parties can be dangerous territory -- in terms of both our Karma quotient and personal embarrassment. A few cocktails lower our usual restraints, and suddenly we're telling off-color jokes to the boss or flirting heavily with that cutie from accounting. Hopefully you're lucky enough to work for a company you love and with people you adore, but if you're worried you can follow these tips to jump any hurdles your sign might face.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

You're a go-getter, quick to accomplish things and say exactly what you think. Number one rule at the office party: Don't engage in heated debates, especially with people you dislike. Even an innocent question like "Who's hotter, Ashlee or Jessica?" might spiral out of control after a few glasses of wine. And dress up a little -- looking like you came straight from the gym won't score any points.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

You're not a show-off, but you do have an affinity for nice things. And you like to spread the wealth around by giving lovely gifts. The office party is not the place, however, to bestow expensive gifts -- especially to the boss. Nor should you come bedecked in your most opulent finery. A little populist-consciousness goes a long way at the holidays. Also, no snide comments about that Aries who just arrived in workout gear!

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

You have a short attention span, Gemini. But no matter how bored you get at the party, do NOT start text-messaging your best friend, thinking no one will notice. Regaling co-workers with the fascinating details of your latest romantic exploits isn't a good idea, either. Nor is slipping out back for a smoke and forgetting to return. Instead, ask questions, practice your listening skills, and make sure you're not the first to leave.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Getting you out of your cozy nest is often tricky. Unless you own the company and think of your employees as family, an office party may not be your idea of a good time. Your usual strategy when nervous is to overeat -- but that won't make you feel better in the long run. Nor will confiding your secret fears to an office-mate, who may turn them into gossip. Take the focus off yourself and encourage others to confide in you.

Leo (July 23 - Aug 22)

You love parties. No one's going to call you a wallflower; in fact, you're usually the center of attention. Perhaps it's your flashy outfits or the witty, suggestive jokes you tell. This can work against you at the office party, however, which might seem like a lark but is often driven by politics. So save the joke about Brad's aphrodisiac for another crowd, and whatever you do, don't wear those red leather pants!

Virgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22)

People think you're cautious and reserved. They don't expect to see a tiger emerge when you've had a drink or two. That's when you let down your defenses and go a little wild. This may not be a bad thing, unless you have an image to uphold. In which case it's better to play it safe and nurse a Perrier. Also, remember that this party is supposed to be fun, so resist the urge go over numbers or strategies with colleagues.