Tuesday August 1

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
You may be more style than substance today, but because first impressions count others are likely to be in awe. The real test could come when you have to back ideas and promises with practical follow through.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
The success or failure of a project now lies in the hands of fate. However, if you have laid all the groundwork and paid close attention to detail, the karmic rewards look likely to come your way.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
If you believe you can make a difference there is no need to hold back. With the forces providing good communications skills and renewed confidence, your input will be both invaluable and a learning experience for others.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Dynamic energy in your money zone makes you a shrewd investor. Even recent financial setbacks can be overcome through astute planning and a little self-sacrifice. Your domestic set-up might also benefit from a policy review.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
You feel more comfortable giving orders than receiving them, but may have to engage in a battle of wills with someone stubborn before ascendency is reached. Try to see yourself through the eyes of other people.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
Mars in your sign encourages you to shed inhibitions, pursue ambitious goals and put yourself out there. The more visible and upfront you are, the better placed you will be to capitalise on those fleeting opportunities.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
On the one hand you might be tempted to throw in the towel, but on the other hand a sense of obligation compels you to keep going. The balance between duty and desire is a fine one today.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
If someone's best is not good enough, remember that positive encouragement will work better than censure. There is potential for high achievement this week, but apathy could be a problem with a romantic or business partner.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
There may be conflict between mind and heart, leaving you uncertain about which direction to take. Put contingency plans in place so that if you make the wrong choice, at least you have room to manoeuvre.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
You may be stuck in a groove, but lack the motivation or means to scratch your way out. The good news is that destiny looks likely to step in soon and guide you in a new direction.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
Although you often resist outlaying money for miserly reasons, there is currently merit in taking cautious risks. Avoid penny-pinching and think about your long-term security rather than the current state of your bank account.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
There is a delicate balance between pleasing others and falling into the role of martyr. Mars in opposition provides a timely wake-up call; opening your eyes to the possibility others may be emotionally blackmailing you.

YOUR DAY
Emotional and financial security goes hand in hand, the inference being people will vacillate over decisions involving relationships or resources. Hence it may be wise to defer important decisions on matters of love and money until later in the week. Meantime, creativity and friendliness are at a peak.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
As you emerge from testing times, you may be driven by desperation to re-establish your place in the pecking order. A newfound ruthless streak will help you make those tough decisions, while a desire to regain lost respect or funds sees you working hard.