Romantic plans could fall through at the last minute, causing tremendous disappointment. Family responsibilities have a way of limiting your movements. Instead of feeling resentful toward your relatives, focus on being of service. Dwelling on what you could otherwise be doing will only make the situation worse. Never fear; you'll have a chance to resume plans later in the month. Until then, make the best of a difficult situation.

A sweet-talker could make you overly confident about your talents. Don't take this person's words to heart, particularly if they have something to gain by getting in your good graces. The competition out there is stiff. The only way you will get to the top is through hard work and lots of practice. If you fall short of victory after trying your best, you'll still have your pride. Keep your eyes on the prize.

Lending money to a loved one or child isn't the best idea right now. Your generosity won't help this person see the error of their ways. In fact, it may encourage them to be more irresponsible. Turn a deaf ear to heart-wrenching pleas, or you'll end up feeling used and angry. In time, your friend will see you acted out of concern for their welfare. Until then, be good to yourself. Take yourself shopping for books.

The money you need to decorate your home may not be available. Don't let this stand in your way of creating a beautiful environment. Instead of buying an expensive piece of furniture, search a second-hand shop or try constructing something with your own two hands. You'll be amazed to see what your imagination can come up with when put to the test. Getting rid of broken or unwanted possessions will come as a relief.

You always want to improve yourself, but try not to be overly critical. If you don't see immediate results from a diet or exercise program, keep at it for another week. Your body needs time to adjust to this new regime. If you happen to fall off the wagon, climb right back on again. Everyone is entitled to the occasional slip-up. Remember your routine isn't a form of punishment; it's a means to fulfilment.

It's hard not to be intimidated by people who show off their assets. If you look a little closer, however, you'll realise these flashy displays are rooted in a profound unhappiness. You've been blessed with something money can't buy: sharp intelligence. Make the most of this gift by pursuing a hobby or studying a fascinating subject. Engaging your mind will make you realise status symbols are a pathetic substitute for a fulfilling life.

Being aggressive may be the only way to get your interests met. Although you're famous for your good manners, your refined persona can sometimes work against you. An opportunistic work colleague may try to put you in an unfavourable light. If you've been accused of something you didn't do, speak up. Don't afraid to get loud and angry. Putting up an intimidating front will scare this bully away.

It's important to be well-informed about subjects that directly affect you. If you're not sure how to manage money, operate an appliance, or protect your business interests, get educated. Although this endeavour will seem scary at first, it will slowly lose its power over you once you get acquainted with fancy terms and specialised language. Pretty soon, you'll wonder what all the fuss and fear was about.

It's hard not to be attracted to successful people, but don't compare their situation to yours. Otherwise, you may be discouraged from pursuing your own dreams. Remember you are on a different path. By welcoming the wonder and mystery of your own experience, you'll find your own brand of achievement. Don't delay your plans to meet the demands of a manipulative relative. You've got to lead your own life.

Domestic life isn't particularly fun right now, which makes work more difficult. It's hard for you to perform official duties when you're worried about the home front. Give yourself a break and get a massage or reflexology treatment. Putting yourself in expert hands will cause your fears to dissolve, allowing you to handle pressure in a more confident manner. Things aren't as bad as you think. Give yourself permission to relax.

Repetitive jobs bore you to distraction, but they are sometimes necessary to make progress. Don't grumble if you're handed some unpleasant tasks. Complaining will only alienate your colleagues and superiors. After all, everybody is expected to do a fair amount of drudge work. Why should you be the exception? Assume your duties with an open and grateful heart. Your positive attitude will attract more interesting opportunities.

Indulging your personal powers may not be possible today, which makes you sulk a bit. Before you let this bad mood consume you, put yourself in a troubled friend's position. How would you feel if you were in their situation? Wouldn't you want a reliable friend to help you through this difficult time? Postpone your plans and pamper your pal. Even the smallest kind gesture can rekindle your compassion.