Horoscopes: Tuesday, August 4

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
Even when you draw the short straw, your professionalism shines through. An ability to set aside ego and take pride in the task at hand is envied by others. Leisure hours are precious today.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
Your instinctive style sets you apart. Venus, the planet of good taste, draws out your ability to create elegantly simple concepts and designs. You can mix business and pleasure with ease this week.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
You remain fixated on an activity until something new catches your eye. Diversity is your primary motivation but the potential for financial gain is factored in to each situation. Monotony is your enemy.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Affairs of the heart are highlighted. The relationship planet Venus in your sign impacts positively on romantic affairs and your social life. An eye-catching look can enhance your chance for success.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
A little bit of drama adds interest to your day. Flamboyant people, flashy ideas and fun-filled activities all hold appeal but you draw the line at hurting or offending others. Heed your intuition occasionally.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
A snap decision nudges you in a new direction. Consequently the clouds over your personal life lift and you see the future with much greater clarity. Even makeshift plans look set to become permanent.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
You take the smartest rather than the most expedient option. Outcomes are important and because quick-fixes are likely to backfire, plans should be well thought out. Associates admire your powers of reasoning.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
There is renewed hope in a situation. Your exemplary communication and research skills provide are the basis for success the second time around. Enthusiasm builds on the back of positive expectation.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
You avoid the soft option and confront challenges head-on. Adversity brings out your innate qualities of bluff and bravado but you must back talk with evidence. Luckily, others like your style this week.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
You are a straight-talker and somewhat of a sounding board for associates. Whether others come to you with personal or professional problems, your advice is revered. Intelligence and intuition combine brilliantly.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
Authority figures thwart your freedom. You are mindful of people looking over your shoulder and reluctantly attempt to toe the party line. A sympathetic ear may be found among close family or friends.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
A timely reminder pushes you in the right direction. However, opportunities are fleeting and some self-promotion may be necessary to capitalise on the moment. Be prepared to step outside your comfort zone today.

YOUR DAY
Unexpected or dramatic conclusions could occur. A tendency to embellish the truth or exaggerate one's self-worth creates a cloud of uncertainty but adds interest to otherwise dull situations. Let events unfold naturally.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
You embark on a quest to be your best. Change starts from within, and slowly but surely your lifestyle, career or relationships improve. Keep your eyes on the horizon at all times.