HOROSCOPE

CAPRICORN Dec 22-Jan 19

Take a rain check. A social outing may sound fun, but it might involve getting close to people, and that’s something you don’t need now. Focus on getting your surroundings shipshape and making financial security a top priority.

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18

You might be able to wheel and deal when it comes to money, but some values might escape your grasp. It may be difficult to make a lasting impression on someone who judges people on efficiency and organisation.

PISCES Feb 19-Mar 20

If someone plucks your heart strings, be aware that they might have an agenda. At times you can be too sympathetic and could go against your better judgment. Take a timeout and consider whether a situation deserves your concern.

ARIES Mar 21-Apr 19

Use your imagination to envision practical and attainable goals. Concentrate on making an existing business plan a success, but don’t throw money around to begin something new. Sidestep disputes and disagreements.

TAURUS Apr 20-May 20

Use faith and hope to guide your personal life, but use facts and skepticism to handle your money. It might be wise to tighten your belt and be more economical. Don’t stir the pot by sharing your personal fears.

GEMINI May 21-June 20

Take a stand and stick to something ordinary. Variety might be the spice of life, but changing your appearance with a new haircut or buying something different probably won’t work magic this time. Wait for things to fall into place.

CANCER June 21-July 22

A temporary blind spot could prevent you from separating fact from fiction. Don’t be afraid to question something; there’s nothing wrong with asking for a clarification. A major purchase might not solve a problem.

LEO July 23-Aug 22

Make things happen. Be in command of your destiny by running a tight ship. Rather than paying lip service to promises, it may be time to prove that you can back up everything you say with action. Loved ones may require extra understanding.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22

Not everyone means what they say, and sometimes we only hear what we want to hear. Remain skeptical of casual promises and guarantees. You may never receive the carrot that’s dangling in front of you.

LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22

Avoid the potholes and honour the stop signs once you are on the road to happiness. Hold off on making important presentations or requests. Although an idea is clear to you, it may be difficult to explain to others.

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 21

Don’t mistake someone’s kindness as an invitation for intimacy. It’s possible that you will misinterpret someone’s signals and get involved in a mix-up. Consider holding off on signing new contracts or agreements.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22-Dec 21

Due diligence could serve you well now. It’s important to do your homework, sift facts and make up your own mind. Resist someone’s hard-sell sales tactics.

If today is your birthday:

It may be challenging to avoid making hard decisions as the next two to three weeks unfold. There could be fallout from anything new that you initiate. Your ability to make smart financial choices is accentuated in late July, a time when your ambitions are on the rise, but it is best to remain patient and wait to begin anything of crucial importance. Spend more time on lighthearted social networking in August rather than making serious resolutions, since you may not feel ready to make drastic changes. Be diligent and dedicated in November, when you can gather valuable experience. Set important plans into motion during December, when your judgment is better than usual, and you will have extra help and advice from well-wishers and supporters.