STARGAZING

Shelley von Strunckel, one of the world’s top astrologers, writes a weekly forecast for Friday

Your stars for the week ahead.

ARIES MARCH 20 – APRIL 18

Being told to declutter your life is one thing – most Aries get involved in lots of plans and develop a range of passions, but forget to disentangle themselves, and the result is the chaos you’re facing. However, this isn’t just about what, and who, should go. You’re preparing for your personal new year, the Aries New Moon on the 28th, which ushers in a timely fresh start.

TAURUS APRIL 19 – MAY 19

For ages, you’ve been considering changes in your domestic setup, daily regime, activities out in the world and close relationships, but the moment’s never come. The presence of dynamic Mars in Taurus gives you the necessary boost but, as it’s there until late April, you’ve time to explore your options. For now, consider both what’s going and what’s next but commit to nothing just yet.

GEMINI MAY 20 – JUNE 20

After weeks of frustration, you’re finally discussing and, often, making decisions about a range of arrangements and alliances. Some have been in the air for ages, others are new. But, in every case, you’re eager to proceed. The trick is to ensure plans are flexible, since with yet more intriguing options appearing, things are unlikely to be finalised until the end of March.

CANCER JUNE 21 – JULY 21

Between now and the end of March you’ll be facing a series of unsettling but ultimately worthwhile ideas or offers. Bear in mind that with the actual foundation on which decisions are based shifting regularly, the more easygoing your attitude, the better. Meanwhile, explore your options, including those that you’d previously regarded as unrealistic. Soon they could seem very appealing indeed.

LEO JULY 22 – AUGUST 21

After the informative but aggravating setbacks triggered by clashes between both your ruler the Sun and Mercury to the demanding Saturn, you’re ready for a break. Fortunately the planetary emphasis is shifting to new ideas. Focus on exploring everything, since what initially seems least exciting could, ultimately, work brilliantly. Decisions really should wait until the end of the month.

VIRGO AUGUST 22 – SEPTEMBER 21

For you, as a Virgo, planning ahead comes naturally. Consequently, the changeable situations you’ll face between now and early April will be frustrating. However, because these changes influence others, you’re not alone. So, join together to figure out ways to deal with this unsettling – but worthwhile – period. Once things are organised, you’ll learn and benefit from every twist and turn.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 22 – OCTOBER 22

This week and, in fact, the period between now and the Libra Full Moon, in mid-April, is about discussion, not finalising decisions. Once you understand that, you’ll relax and focus on exploring your ever-increasing options. This is timely, because several arrangements are coming undone. Let them. Trust instincts that say what’s next will be far better than you imagined possible.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23 – NOVEMBER 21

Certain individuals seem to be hiding things. This is based on their reluctance to address increasingly pressing matters frankly. While your conclusions are understandable, the fact is they’re as confused as everybody else. Talk things over. Be frank. Get them to join you in discussing and, even more, seeking answers for tricky matters, some of which are becoming more worrying by the day.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 20

Often obstacles test your resilience. Now, however, the difficulties you’re facing are unusually challenging and more persistent. These, which are indicated by tricky aspects to your ruler Jupiter, this week and next, will slow your pace, but also force you to delve into both long-standing and recent arrangements, as well as future plans. What you learn will result in a timely, and extensive, rethink.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 21 – JANUARY 18

Recently you’ve had to justify, and sometimes explain in detail, your existing plans and those you’re currently organising. Although you’d assumed there was nothing to question, the foundation on which these have been based and your priorities have shifted, more than you realise. This means it’s worth giving yourself time, both to reflect and consider what needs to change.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 19 – FEBRUARY 17

Discussions that force you to justify your thinking irritate you. Worse, you’re currently facing individuals who are, in some way, in charge but clearly don’t care. Tempting as it is to express your feelings and either be argumentative or stage a confrontation, you’d regret it. Unlikely as it seems, what begin as tense exchanges can turn into worthwhile, and ultimately profitable, exchanges of ideas.

PISCES FEBRUARY 18 – MARCH 19

The seemingly dismissive attitude of those you’re dealing with is making you uneasy. Enough you’ll want to keep your distance. Don’t. These individuals are truly interested in what you’re suggesting but don’t fully understand your vision. Invest time in discussing the practical side of things and, equally, elaborate on the details that would help clarify what you have in mind.