Don't get defensive when somebody complains about a loved one's behaviour. Coming to the defence of someone who has been abusing their power is a mistake. It's important to be fair, even if that means challenging a person who is close to your heart. Deep down inside, you know your friend is capable of being a bully. Until you confront them, their bad attitude will continue to spiral out of control. Take a deep breath, be honest and confront the source of the trouble.

You have a great deal of influence on someone in your social circle. Resist the temptation to control their emotions. Pretending romantic interest will lead to disaster. Yes, you need help, but you should get it from somebody who gives it freely. Implying you will reward someone for a sacrifice will create a dangerous precedent. Suddenly, you'll feel like you've been drawn into a toxic alliance. That's the last thing you want. Don't even flirt to get out of a parking ticket.

A relationship that was once harmonious is showing signs of strain. You can no longer take your love for granted. If it's going to continue, you will have to nourish it like a delicate plant. Spend more time with your amour. Express interest in their activities. Compliment their achievements and thank them for their contributions. At first, your partner will be suspicious of your motives. Their defences will come down when they realise you are sincere. Be patient and persistent.

A bitter argument is wreaking havoc with your personal life. It's impossible to relax and enjoy yourself with this problem hanging over your head. You won't be able to walk away from this situation because there is too much at stake. Continue to fight for what is yours, whether it is equal custody of a child, your fair share of a business deal or a reasonable legal settlement. It may be necessary to hire a lawyer. See if you can hire someone who will work for a retainer.

You're being asked to turn your back on a dream. Not only is this request unfair, it is downright mean spirited. You have every reason to question the motive of the person who is making such demands. Although they insist they love you, the truth is more sinister. You're dealing with someone who wants to manipulate and control you. Giving in to their demands will create an abusive dynamic that will be impossible to break. It's better to cut ties and assert your independence.

Feelings of hopelessness are dragging you into a downward spiral. Instead of giving up the fight, change direction. Stop pursuing a dream that has caused nothing but heartache. Set a new goal. Make sure this dream is something you really want, instead of a socially acceptable aim. This could be anything from living in a foreign country to earning an advanced degree to writing a book. Trying to earn respectability has caused nothing but misery. You're better off satisfying your own needs.

It's time to get help for a childhood issue that has been creating a persistent problem. Now you are older, you have the ability to build a happy, healthy life. That can't happen if you're stuck in the past. Getting counselling can be empowering. Instead of taking the blame for someone's bad behaviour, you'll assign responsibility to the proper person. Stop internalising negative messages that were imposed on you. Manipulators always try to destroy the confidence of their victims.

Wash your hands of a relationship that drains your energy. You're an extremely generous person. This becomes problematic when you receive nothing in return. Be honest about a romantic partner or friend who keeps neglecting you. Although they're extremely attractive, there isn't much substance beneath their glamorous exterior. Cut ties and look for somebody who is kind, caring and considerate. You deserve nothing less than the best. Things will start turning around for you very soon.

You've lost sight of your dreams. It's hard to know what to hope for anymore. Don't force the issue. Focus on living in the moment instead. Simple activities like doing chores, filing paperwork and paying bills can lend a sense of structure. Once you feel like you're being productive, new goals will take shape. You'll feel the stirrings of excitement that make life meaningful. Before you know it, you'll be racing towards a relationship, career goal or lifestyle change.

Don't overindulge at a party. Drinking or eating to excess will make you irritable and embarrassed. If you're going to make a good impression, it's best to keep a clear head. Feelings of self consciousness can be overcome by asking lots of questions. People love talking about themselves. By expressing interest in other people's favourite hobbies and pursuits, your popularity will soar. Resist the temptation to spread gossip about someone you dislike. Nasty stories could come back to haunt you.

Working with someone you dislike is stressful. No matter how hard you try to make a connection, your partner repels your overtures. There's no point in forcing the issue. Do your fair share of the work. Dispatch your responsibilities as quickly as possible so you can move on to greener pastures. The people who first brought you together will be disappointed by your failure to relate. It isn't anyone's fault. Chalk up your problems to a lack of chemistry.

A romantic relationship isn't making progress. It's hard to make headway with someone who seems indifferent to your charms. Instead of beating your head against a brick wall, turn your attention elsewhere. Focus on a creative project that bolsters your self esteem. You're extremely artistic and enjoy expressing your imagination in a variety of ways. Once this project gets off the ground, your relationship won't seem so compelling anymore. You may decide to break things off and go solo.