Astrology: Take a look at your daily horoscope

Happy birthday: for Friday, Aug. 28. Convincing, articulate and a master of language, you persuade others of the brilliance of your projects and make this year an extremely successful one. You must compromise at the year’s beginning, but you’ll get what you want. If single, a deeper understanding of your needs finds you a mate mid-year. If attached, passion rules and your bond deepens, but listen more to your partner hinting about difficulty. AQUARIUS seems easygoing but is not.

Aries (March 21-April 19):

★★★★ Prepare for some heavy competition today. Direct energy constructively and keep trying. Your professional aspirations are very important. Pursue that which nurtures your creative needs while weighing financial considerations. Tonight: What a day! You take the whole night off, deservedly.

Taurus (April 20-May 20):

★★★★★ Much can be accomplished because your energy level will be high, but do quell impatience. It’s especially easy to overreact today. Consider consequences and options first. Friday is your lucky day each week. Make purchases and decisions then to enhance success. Tonight: Friday night too.

Gemini (May 21-June 20):

★★★★★ Encourage a discussion of dreams over breakfast. Dream analysis might provide insight concerning the needs of those closest to you. Today brings upbeat financial news. An inheritance, investment or settlement is involved. Tonight: Read over the fine print and in between the lines.

Cancer (June 21-July 22):

★★ A deeper understanding of what you need as well as what you could offer a companion develops today. If a relationship isn’t working, face up to the facts and perform a ritual of release. You will be doubly blessed. Tonight: The sadness comes.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22):

★★★★ Focus on your health today. Release stress and prepare wholesome meals. There is so much going on that you can feel uncharacteristically overwhelmed. You will have a new awareness of how others impact your life. A sense of changing times ahead prevails. Tonight: Wellbeing journal.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

★★★★★ New places and acquaintances usher in a very happy day. You’ll be appreciated. Take note of imaginative ideas that come spontaneously now. One will be a real gem. You have new talents emerging. Tonight: Celebrate yourself as only a Virgo knows how.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

★★★ A relative or household member might announce some unexpected plans. Be understanding and supportive. Today accents security issues. Balancing old monetary obligations with current expenses requires humor and tolerance. Tonight: Dine as friends. You need more time for a balanced reaction.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):

★★★★ A sibling or neighbor is changing. Don’t be in denial when obvious signs are being sent. Transportation needs are being considered and information exchange is very important. Be alert and stay well informed and all will be well. Tonight: Catch up with your oldest friend and laugh.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

★★★★ Examine habits regarding money management. Figure out what hasn’t been working and don’t repeat the pattern. Today is wonderful for reviewing insurance coverage, investments and your general budget. Be alert. Follow through with a promising opportunity. Tonight: Read Forbes or research.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan 19):

★★★★★ Reputation is a sensitive issue. Cultivate your image. Try a new hairstyle or wardrobe item. Make travel plans. Your ideas impact others. One of the best cycles for romance, creativity and overall better change is about to begin. Tonight: You actually feel it about to begin.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

★★★★★ Quietly performing anonymous acts of kindness brings you a deep happiness, and you might unknowingly befriend an angel in disguise today. Prepare to take on a new project or to make a journey. Tonight: You wonder about this angel in disguise. You reach out.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20):

★★★★ Answers to securityrelated problems come from a neighbor or loved one. You’ll feel much more confident. It’s a great day to seek advice and to network. You’re more visible to influential professional contacts. Tonight: A safe night out on the town.

Born today: Writer Johann von Goethe (1749), poet Rita Dove (1952), comedian Jack Black (1969)