A preoccupation with domestic matters will affect your reputation if you're not careful. If you're at a party, stick to subjects of general interest, like movies, politics, and books. Boring stories about the kids will drive guests away from you like the plague. Similarly, complaining about aches and pains will cause you to lose out on some golden opportunities. Summon your sparkling wit, even when you're not particularly upbeat.

Just because others are better informed than you doesn't mean you have to sit on the sidelines. Ask experts plenty of thoughtful questions, and really listen to their answers. People will be flattered by your interest, and seek out your company at future social events. An imposing executive may shower you with romantic attention. Play hard-to-get with this character; this will just whet their appetite for your company. Hold out for an expensive gift.

It's hard to make good decisions when you're experiencing financial pressure. Don't take a job out of sheer desperation, particularly if it holds no interest for you. You're better off waiting for something more suited to your talents. If you are offered a position that appeals to you, but offers a very small salary, ask for more money. The powers-that-be will bend to your demands if you seem calm and assured.

A loved one tries to push you into an arrangement that doesn't suit you, and tension ensues. You refuse to be bullied by anyone. Instead of going on the defensive, retreat to a private corner where you won't be bothered. The more elusive you are, the harder this person will try to please you. In the end, you'll get everything you want without ever having to raise your voice. That's a sign of real power.

Brooding over your fears will make it virtually impossible to get work done. Stop buying into the worst case scenario, especially where your health is concerned. If you're really worried, consult a health care professional. It's better to get an accurate picture of the situation than to imagine what could be wrong. Some adjustments to your daily routine may be all that's necessary to restore your sense of well-being.

Worrying about what your friends think only undermines your happiness. There's no point in trying to fit in with the crowd when your needs are completely different. If you're really afraid to go solo, surround yourself with people who share your passion. It will be a tremendous relief to have friends who understand your direction. Stop using your family as an excuse for why life has been so static these days.

You're rarely do anything without considering how it will affect your reputation. However, maintaining a happy facade is becoming a little tiresome. Feel free to confess your true feelings to a friend who has stood by you in the past. Career disappointments are especially painful. It's especially important to be receptive to suggestions now. Just because one door has been closed doesn't mean all hope has vanished. Look for that silver lining.

Don't be afraid to admit that you don't have the answers to certain questions. People will respect you more than if you try to bluff your way out of this situation. Put yourself in an expert's hands. Although this person may seem like a scatterbrain at first, you'll soon see there is a method to their madness. Romantic undercurrents may develop in this relationship. You're a hot commodity.

It's hard to surrender your freedom to somebody whose fate is tied to yours. Sharing a bank account, living space, or work assignment isn't particularly easy right now. In fact, you could grow to resent your partner unless you develop some negotiating skills. Being generous doesn't mean giving away your personal power. In fact, it will give you more stature in your relationship. This skill will also make you a better lover.

You're so busy trying to figure out a partner's motives that you ignore your own emotions. Instead of tailoring your behaviour to suit somebody else, wear your heart on your sleeve. That way, loved ones will be forced to contend with your needs, instead of staying focused on their agenda. Make no mistake: speaking up for yourself won't make you popular, but it will earn you lots of respect.

Finding ways to get your efforts noticed could make you more self-conscious. Normally, you prefer to let your work speak for itself. Unfortunately, that's not happening right now. Therefore, you must make a bigger impact on the public's radar. Draw attention to yourself when others threaten to overshadow you. Introduce yourself to the powers-that-be. Stop working behind the scenes and step in front of the spotlight. Otherwise, you'll get lost in the crowd.

You're intent on having fun, but others don't share your high spirits. Maybe that's because they've been forced to assume a greater share of responsibility. It may be best to postpone a holiday or downplay your enthusiasm for the sake of the group. Never fear; you'll have another opportunity to let loose. In the meantime, do your best to establish yourself as a team player. You'll lose some laughs, but you'll gain some friends.