Friday September 8

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
If there are obvious problems in a relationship, the last thing you should do is to turn a blind eye. Listen to your inner voice and speak from the heart. Others will be unable to resist your honesty.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
Mercury in the partnership sector acts as a conduit between you and a special person. It may be easier to express intimate thoughts or share secrets, plus your social life will be more active and fulfilling.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
You may be tempted to tell white lies or make weak excuses in an attempt to paint yourself in a better light. However, today's illusory influences warn against self-deceit and imply others will see through you.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Accept your share of blame or guilt in a crisis and move on. Mercury the messenger gives you the gift of words, while Moon in empathetic Pisces puts you on the receiving end of someone's goodwill or forgiveness.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
Work out weaknesses, play to your strengths and take people at face value. Not only will the critics be out in force, but you may also be hard on yourself and inclined to question your role in relationships.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
Venus in your sign makes you more attractive to others and eager to project an eye-catching image. It also offers a boost to your confidence, social life and relationships in general. Take advantage of romantic stars.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
Someone who is organised or possesses a quiet strength may inspire you to be a better person. And with dynamic Mars poised to enter your sign, some will consider a bold move while others exorcise inner demons.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
Rather than worrying about trivial issues, focus on the future and redouble your efforts. Venus brings you into contact with someone who has self-belief and is willing to pass on useful advice. Create your own destiny.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
Until all the pieces of puzzle fall into place you should avoid making any new commitments. A chapter of your life is coming to a close and before the next one begins you must find the missing links.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
Venus in fastidious Virgo prompts you to pay closer attention to your appearance, fitness and surroundings. If you have let yourself go in recent months or your home needs a facelift, now is the time to act.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
A situation will become clearer if you analyse events rather than making assumptions. It is likely to be laziness or lack of interest on your part that prevents you from being on top of your game.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
You will welcome support from loved ones and invitations from friends. Loving Venus floats into the relationship zone, making you the centre of attention and ultimately improving your confidence and boosting your chance for success.

YOUR DAY
Venus in discerning Virgo makes people more selective about the company they keep. The bar will doubtless be raised in relationships and it may be tempting to shed the dead wood from your life. There might also be greater obsession about appearance, hygiene and diet in the days ahead.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
While you may prefer to withdraw when challenged or hurt, it would be better to bravely face down your demons. This is an excellent year for refining responsibilities and taking a minimalist approach in all areas of life. Remember that simplicity is your key to contentment.