Tuesday August 22

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
A throwaway suggestion could prove to be a timely piece of advice for someone close to you. Your words will carry a lot of authority today and your optimism and self-belief may help inspire others.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
You could be the subject of censure for a perceived past injustice, but it may simply be someone's way of blowing off steam. Take accusations with a grain of salt and look below the surface of others' actions.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
Despite a tendency to exaggerate or act extravagantly, little harm is likely to come from your actions. Just be wary of going emotionally overboard when dealing with the person who means the most to you.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
The truth hurts, but perhaps you need to hear it in order to get real about a situation. Indications are you will work out your differences with someone and then set new guidelines in the relationship.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
With both the Sun and Moon due to leave your sign, life will settle into a more regular pattern. The disruption and excitement of previous weeks come to an end and you can start playing catch up.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
No matter how hard you have tried to control a situation, it has taken on a life of its own. The tables turn later this week and you will finally regain the upper hand and find permanent solutions.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
There is an air of expectancy around your sign, which may make it difficult to focus on current issues. And while it is not in your nature to act impulsively, a lapse in judgement could occur today.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
The more choice you have, the less comfortable you will feel. Allow time to consider all your options and gather the information needed to avoid making mistakes. Timing is everything and later this week looks more auspicious.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
You could easily trip up on your own enthusiasm and should try to slow down the tempo today. With the Sun about to change signs, there may be a sense of urgency to launch a new project.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
A tendency to ask too many questions and over-analyse situations could work against you. Remember that if you delve too deeply you may not like what you find. Be discreet and keep relationships on an even keel.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
You may get a whiff of change in the air and will feel nervous about what lies ahead. Rather than putting your fate in the hands of others, take control and prepare yourself as skilfully as possible.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
A question mark may hang over a relationship, yet you are reluctant to open up old wounds. Later in the week you can tackle these tough issues and in the meantime should give thought to your tactics.

YOUR DAY
Passionate planets dominate, but with both the solar and lunar cycles coming to an end, energy may be flat rather than fiery. Be selective about the assignments you choose and people you mix with today. There may be more window dressing than substance in both situations and relationships.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
Your sphere of influence spreads and you will be exposed to new people, places or projects in the year ahead. The recent missing element of luck or timing is likely to be there, allowing you to take risks you would normally shy away from.