Thursday August 31

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
A request may not sit well, but you will reluctantly carry out someone's wishes. However, you should make it clear that in future you would prefer greater input and more information before agreeing to participate.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
The inference today is that your sign should think big and dare to be different. If an opportunity arises outside your usual sphere of influence, go in with the mind-set that you have nothing to lose.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
There may be some emotional uncertainty to contend with, but you can take comfort in the fact problems will soon be resolved. Meanwhile, channel energy into tasks that are mentally stimulating, physically satisfying or financially rewarding.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Events occur that either shake you out of complacency or provide food for thought. Taken one step further, this may be the turning point you have waited for all year. Take a punt and you won't be sorry.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
One-on-one relationships will be more satisfying and easier to handle than group situations. Despite your reputation as a friendly extrovert, shyness could be a problem for many lions this week. Be true to yourself.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
Some salacious gossip could come your way or a loved one may reveal a secret. You will be given precious insights into other people's lives, but must use your newfound knowledge with the utmost integrity and loyalty.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
Not one to sit in judgement on others, you will be a magnet for those wishing to discuss controversial or personal issues. Your gentle acceptance and problem-solving skills make you the perfect counsellor today.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
Someone may play the sympathy card and you will find it difficult to resist his or her pleas. However if you avoid emotional entanglements today, you can save yourself unnecessary heartache or even financial loss.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
You may jump off one bandwagon and onto another, without thinking that someone might be hurt or an opportunity missed. Rather than flowing with the tide of popular opinion, make a stand for decency and justice.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
The Moon fills your head with bright ideas and heightens self-awareness. Brainstorm concepts with people on your wavelength, but keep your finger on the pulse at all times or unscrupulous types may steal your thunder.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
You may discover a latent skill, which could help you in subtle ways within the context of a close relationship. The energy is creative and someone who believes in you may provide extra resources or hands-on help.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
Recycling old relationships or living on long-ago glories, will only stifle personal growth. Luckily the planets gently nudge in a different direction soon and the future may suddenly hold much greater promise than the past.

YOUR DAY
Self-involvement could rule out teamwork as an option today. Many will be happier managing alone or behind the scenes and secretive behaviour could even turn to paranoia in some cases. Harbouring suspicions or suspecting other people's motives will be a complete waste of valuable time and emotional energy.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
Options will be taken up with the best of intentions, a fact that should endear you to others. And as you enter a co-operative cycle of life, you could be more inclined than usual to consult with colleagues or loved ones before making new commitments.