Associating with an unsavoury character could cause problems. You've got to break all ties with them, even at the risk of looking disloyal. The truth is they would drop you like a hot potato at the least sign of danger. They've done it to others, and they'll do it to you. Adopting a more independent stance gives you a chance to explore your values. Your moral code is a lot stronger than you think, and will sustain you through difficult times like these.

Resist the urge to call in sick today; being a reliable employee will put you in line for an impressive promotion. Letting your boss down, though, could prompt you to be fired. Yes, the prospect of spending a lazy day with your mates is tempting, but there will be plenty of time for fun this weekend. Operating as part of a team will be more stimulating than you think. It's fun to bounce ideas off colleagues. Together, you can produce great results.

Be practical about realising your plans. If you need extra qualifications to get a particular job, either set about getting them or change your plans. There's no use in trying to pull the wool over other people's eyes. They'll see what you're up to and you could end up in hot water. In the long run it's best to play the game by the rules and not cut corners in any way. Hard work will pay off even if it is tough at times.

If you've got into debt, be honest; a business or romantic partner will be justifiably angry, but at least you will have preserved your relationship. Sorting through this problem together will give you a fresh appreciation for your friend's talents. It will also make you more mindful of your own misdeeds. Every time you overspend, you undermine your associate's hard work. Turn over a new leaf. You can be an asset to this pairing.

Open your eyes to your partner's shortcomings. If a friend or lover has been elusive about their behaviour, there is a reason for it. Stop accepting their lame excuses at face value. It could be that they are involved in some shady activity. If so, you need to confront them or they'll continue to jeopardise their prospects and your relationship. A wee windfall allows you to take a short break. A little distance will be good for the both of you.

It may be difficult to find the work you need. Don't let that spoil your weekend. Yes, you won't have much money to spend on leisure activities, but you can still have fun. In the meantime, stay positive with regard to employment prospects. Next week will present some exciting opportunities. A romantic encounter will give you renewed hope for the future. It's nice to know you've still got plenty of sex appeal. Single? You could meet someone special over the next day or so.

If a child is acting out, it's probably because he or she feels neglected. Make more of an attempt to spend quality time together. Be sure to reprimand them whenever they step out of line. Incredible as it may seem, discipline is a form of affection. If you act as though you don't care what a child does, trouble ensues. An exciting job offer could come your way. You may need to start before you're ready, but you will soon be glad you took the plunge.

You're sorely tempted to withdraw from the world; you're not particularly keen on the human race right now. Unfortunately, circumstances require you make a public appearance of some sort. Be sure to attend a party or social event. If you don't, you'll miss a wonderful romantic opportunity. If you're already in a relationship, be sure to go out with your beloved tonight. Your bad mood will melt into thin air once you force yourself to chill out.

Learning a new skill is harder than you think. In the past, you've always been a quick learner. There's something about this particular subject driving you crazy. Perhaps it requires you to pay careful attention to small details. You prefer focusing on the big picture. Try to adopt a different approach to learning, or you will continue to encounter obstacles. Sometimes you have to bend to fit the situation. This is one of those times.

Usually, you're very practical where money is concerned. Recently someone has been playing on your sympathies. Lending money to a wayward relative is like throwing it into a sinkhole. Put an end to this support, or you will enable a dangerous habit. A sale on technical equipment allows you to afford a new computer, television, or phone. It's about time you spent money on yourself. Don't bother defending your purchase to meddling onlookers.

You could be fooling yourself with regard to work. Be more exacting with your duties. Work to get to the office early, instead of a few minutes late each day. Above all, be respectful to your superiors. Although they may lack your experience and intelligence, they are still in charge. Losing your job through arrogance is more trouble than it's worth. If you play your cards right, you could get an unexpected raise.

Dwelling on painful incidents from your past is causing nothing but grief. It's time to move onward and upward. Stop beating yourself up for old mistakes. They've helped you become a more sensitive, caring person. We've all done things we are ashamed of. The trick is to use this pain as a means to connect with others. Awkward memories can help you feel sympathetic towards people who would otherwise earn your contempt.