Competition brings out the best in you, especially where creative endeavours are concerned. If you work hard enough, you can even earn money from your efforts. Resist the urge to put down a rival or you'll seem mean spirited and scared, and that's not the impression you want to make. Be warned of a shock cash demand you weren't expecting.

Listen to someone who is trying to help you improve your personal skills. It's hard to know what areas to work on without guidance so be open to suggestion. Don't cut off your nose to spite your face if you take advice in the proper spirit, you'll pull ahead. You're more stubborn than usual today.

This is your big chance to break away from the crowd and strike out on your own. Your present situation simply isn't challenging enough to make you happy. Perhaps it's time to start your own business. Some valuable contacts can give you the advice and financial backing you need to be a success. Be warned of a friend who's a bad influence.

You may not be able to help someone in need no matter how much you want to, so stop feeling guilty. You're better off channelling your energy into things you can change, like a bad habit. Abusing your body has a profound affect on your outlook. The contentment you crave could come through diet and exercise.

Throwing your weight around in an attempt to hide your inadequacies is sure to cause problems. Project a positive image of self-confidence, even if you're trembling inside. Even the bravest people are plagued with fears, and you're no exception. Turn to someone who know you well, they'll give you all the encouragement you need.

The Mercury/Uranus square throws a surprise or shock your way today making it difficult to follow your regular routine. This is really a blessing in disguise. Expending lots of energy will help you burn off stress that's been building up these past few weeks. Try not to over analyse your love life too much and as for travel - only go if you have to.

Someone is doubtful about your ability to go after your dreams, which puts stress on an intimate relationship. The best way to relieve it is to work harder than ever. Actions always speak louder than words, as you well know. If you're really honest with yourself, you'll admit their fears can be justified at times.

Others won't give you the validation you crave; you're on your own where your career is concerned. Folks will respect you more when you act without hesitation. After all, how bad could the consequences be? If you make a mistake, you can always go back and correct it later. Don't pressurise yourself too much.

Someone with lots of formal training proves quite intimidating, especially when you're competing head to head to achieve the same aims. You have something far more valuable though: common sense! It's not necessary to do everything by the book if you can think of a better way. Sometimes you need to snip through the red tape.

You must be more strict when it comes to dividing business and pleasure. You'll never fully enjoy your leisure time if you've always got work hanging over your head. Establish a routine that allows you to finish bothersome chores early in the morning. That way, you can wind down gradually. Don't allow a rebellious child to rule the roost.

Some healthy competition is good for you, but right now you're experiencing it as a threat. You have no other choice but to do your best. The fears that are welling up inside will bring about a creative breakthrough. The unlikeliest solutions work best today, so follow your first impulse. If you're stressed out be sure to take a break.

Negative developments in your social circle prompts you to withdraw from the crowd. This is an opportune time to develop your ingenuity and uniqueness. When you're working on something that comes from the heart, all the despondency that's been swirling around will vanish into thin air. Cop on to your hidden talents.