Horoscopes: Wednesday, July 22

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20) * * * * *
Your strong point is making others feel good. Just being around you motivates or enlivens people and although energy levels may be low, Aries are currently on cruise control. Release your inner child.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21) * *
Your first impulse is to argue. However, on second thoughts you accept the futility of trying to change someone's mind. Time is best spent catching up on the backlog or taking care of personal problems.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21) * * *
Where tactics have failed you decide on a different approach. There may be a gap between formulating a plan and putting it into practice, but you sense improvement is just over the horizon.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23) * * *
Even faint praise is welcome today. If your endeavours are at least acknowledged or at best given the thumbs up, life seems more satisfying. Remember to laugh of silly comments and criticism.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23) * * *
You take an emotional breather before starting an exciting new phase. With Moon in your sign and the Sun approaching, opportunities or ideas start flowing thick and fast. Recharge your batteries right away.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23) * * *
A sideways step helps you ward off trouble. The end of a cycle is near and an opportunity to start afresh should not be interfered with. Your chance to speak out is coming very soon.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23) * * * *
From your current vantage point the big picture looks rosy. However, life is about to get even better and your interest in an issue should soon escalate. You have the gift of words right now.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22) * * *
From the domestic chaos you create some sort of order. Personality clashes could occur but once the air is cleared, your home life should improve. Give and take provides the only way forward today.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22) * * *
You are aware of the sublime difference between optimism and haste. If a deal or person seems too good to be true, you wait until something more tangible comes along. Time is on your side.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20) * *
Some sort of power play zaps your energy. There may be too many people vying for top position and time is wasted looking for rivals' weak spots. Self-talk is negative, so seek outside advice.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19) * * * * *
Your mood is decisive and constructive. A gathering of people or collection of ideas stirs up interest and you act without any hesitation at all. The momentum is likely to build as your week progresses.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20) * *
People you identify with are empathetic in return. In contrast, where there is no personal connection you have a hard time interacting. If possible, stay on your own turf and mix in familiar circles.

YOUR DAY
The lunar cycle is coming to a close. Today is an ideal time to clear up unfinished business in preparation for a fresh start. Slow the tempo and calculate each move you make.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
You work had at fitting in, securing your future and leaving a mark. With your head down and tail up, progress is steady throughout the year and your reputation or lifestyle enhanced.