Horoscopes: Wednesday, August 19

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
You focus on fresh ideas and friendship. Moon in the extrovert zone sends Aries natives on fun-filled missions while also evoking the altruistic part of your personality. The vibe is different from recent days.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
Internal and external forces collide to throw you off balance. Moon the emotional indicator and outwardly active Mars both sit at an awkward angle. This makes it hard to separate your private and public lives.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
Feelings of frustration are offset by financial recovery. By playing your cards right, recent hard work should soon pay off in tangible ways. Put problems and remarks into proper context when making decisions.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
You are on the cusp of a revelation. Secrets are exposed or feelings expressed and once the air is cleared harmony can be restored. Ruling Moon in the zone of creature comforts allows indulgence.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
Second chances are plentiful. The lunar energy opens new windows of opportunity and gives you the confidence to carry on with a project recently placed on the back burner. Play to your strengths today.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
A plea falls on deaf ears, so you take the independent option. Handling problems and tasks by yourself is confidence building, and makes you realise that the answers often lie within.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
Your chameleon-like traits make it possible to fit in anywhere. Others feel comfortable in your presence, due mainly to the fact you can converse on many different topics. Small groups suit your mood.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
You believe that prevention is better than cure. As a result, you tend to head off problems and shy away from the troublemakers. This practice goes a long way towards creating a peaceful environment.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
Clever conclusions can be drawn from scant information. Quick-thinking energy helps you join the dots and create a convincing argument whenever necessary. Others are in awe and see you as a role model.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
Ambition burns within but timing must be precise. Choose your moment carefully and pick the perfect partner when joint decisions need to be made. Momentum gathers slowly but surely this week.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
You inadvertently instil confidence in others. Your body language, words and deeds are being closely watched by people who admire your handling of situations. Carry on with whatever you are doing now.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
A personal reinvention gives you a more positive outlook on life. Lively energy prompts you to see the glass half full and recognise the goodness in other people. The bonus is an improvement in relationships.

YOUR DAY
A sunny outlook is contagious. Moon in cheerful Leo lifts peoples' spirits and many decide to choose their own fate rather than leaving events to chance. This is an excellent time for emotional healing.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
You welcome change within the family circle or embrace opportunities to show off your talents. During this lively period your world gradually expands to include new interests and different people.