Tuesday July 18

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
You may reluctantly admire an adversary, but will stop short of surrender. Pride is your main motivator this week and sooner than show your weaknesses to others, you will keep on fighting to the very end.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
Keeping up appearances may seem important, but in the end substance will be what counts the most. Avoid being drawn in to competitive situations and look below the surface when judging others or making life choices.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
Although you may prefer to call all the shots and single-handedly manage situations, circumstances dictate otherwise. And you might be pleasantly surprised when the input of others results in better outcomes and much less stress.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
A new phase unfolds next week and while change may be tinged with sadness, you will sensibly accept that nothing stays the same. Put your finances in order ahead of what could be a costly but exciting period.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
As you plan ahead, look back and see how far you have come this year. Praise from someone you respect may propel you forward, but the promise of financial reward will be an even bigger incentive.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
Feelings of fear that paralysed you in the past begin to fade as the week wears on. The popular planet Venus moves into a favourable position soon, boosting self-esteem, your popularity and energy levels.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
With your ruling planet Venus heading towards the crest of your horoscope, there will be less opportunity to hide behind others and a greater desire to make your mark on the world. Polish up your public persona.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
Your head may be in the clouds, but you must keep your feet on the ground. Work through chores in order, starting with the mundane and saving the most interesting for last. Others may sense your disinterest.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
A tendency to take on other people's problems could be detrimental to your health and purse. However, you will remain optimistic and ready to tackle even the toughest emotional crisis. Encourage loved ones to do their share.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
For those keen to achieve a goal set earlier this year, now would be a good time to speed up the process. Tap into your ruthless streak and make the hard decisions regarding money and moving on.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
With the planets foreshadowing a subtle shift, you can afford to be cautiously optimistic in affairs of the heart. Start the ball rolling by declaring your feelings for someone or rekindling a relationship that still holds potential.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
Your first instinct may be to hedge your bets, but sooner or later you have to make a choice. If your heart and mind are in conflict, seek counsel from an expert or trusted loved one.

YOUR DAY
A subtle shift in energy moves the focus from individuality to uniformity. The trend later in the day will be to go along with the crowd rather than being contrary. Fortunately, this can be achieved without sacrificing personal ideals or losing your sense of identity. Take the good with the bad.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
Between now and October you may be in the planning phase. After that, you will progress steadily towards a goal and feel a stronger sense of security. The energy is harmonious, ensuring relationships and domestic affairs flow more smoothly than during your last birthday year.