Friday August 11

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
There may be inner conflict or your conscience will be pricked. Rather than fighting your feelings, if you have any doubts about your involvement in a situation or issues of morality arise, take a backward step.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
Talking yourself up may not come naturally, but self-promotion could lead to that lucky break. Bear in mind that if you do not flaunt your skills or sell ideas, others will remain in the dark.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
By confronting problems head-on you will win respect and save yourself heartache. Just avoid being too gung-ho in your actions and dialogue, especially if the situation you face is tricky or tenuously balanced.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Your defences may be up and you will feel the need to justify your actions to others. Fortunately, the planets are in a forgiving mood and even the most hostile people will eventually see things your way.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
You will handle the high expectations others place on you, despite sometimes feeling hard done by. Luckily there are healthy signs of improvement in the days ahead and tangible rewards could soon come your way.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
To make a seamless transition from one situation to the next, you must discuss every phase with those involved. Be bold when stating opinions and try to remain upbeat about your chances for long-term success.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
A recent tendency to act impulsively may have left a trail of disappointments, broken hearts or lost opportunities. You now have the chance to make amends and should look to a worldly-wise adviser for support.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
Although you will relate well to people who agree with your position or share similar ideals, your patience may wear thin with the cynics. You have nothing to prove and will be riding high on self-confidence.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
There is a fine line between curiosity and prying into other people's lives. And while you may be well intentioned, it will be easier than usual today to stir up trouble. Think before you act.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
A me-first attitude may prevail, making it difficult to have your own needs met or understand what others want. Do your best to comply with the majority, but avoid giving in simply for the sake of peace.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
You may discover what it is you find appealing about someone and new levels of awareness will enrich the relationship. Expect an impasse to be broken soon or a suitable compromise to be reached.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
You can afford to take carefully considered risks, but should avoid impulsive moves. Trust your feelings and back off if something does not ring true about a financial deal or personal relationship.

YOUR DAY
Emotional and attention-seeking stars suggest a melodramatic day. Those who are needy or love the limelight may engage in provocative behaviour or will exaggerate their own position. There could also be a tendency to shun mainstream thinking and look for alternative means to resolve issues.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
It may be difficult to tie everything up in a neat parcel, but one or two loose ends will make little difference to final results. Avoid getting hung up on detail during your new birthday year and try to focus instead on the big picture issues.