Pause before jumping into anything new and consider whether it is the best way forward. Whether you're taking on new commitments or taking over from someone who is resigning from a committee, is it what you really want? Before racing off down a new track, check you are heading in the right direction. If after some consideration you decide it's what you really want to do and it is the best way for you, only then commit yourself to new ventures.

Don't be afraid to ask for exactly what you want; only then do you have a firm chance of getting it. Keeping hopes locked up inside means anyone who could help you achieve these is unaware of what you want. Being assertive will help improve your prospects. If you're in a situation which isn't right for you, take charge and start steering away. New and more satisfying life patterns will emerge.

Friendship blossoms during a social event giving you the chance to add to your social circle. Usually you don't care what other people think of you but there is someone you're trying your utmost to impress today. Staying cooped up in the home or workplace will wear on your nerves. You need more challenge in your life and more chance too, to add a little versatility and interest to your days.

Someone's glum face and distressed manner could be their manipulative way of gaining attention. If they can't get people to go along with them by being persuasive, they will try playing the martyr. So they don't get away with such tactics, offer the sympathy they're looking for through words but not through actions. Refuse to allow anyone to use emotional blackmail to get their way.

You could be putting your reputation on the line by acting on impulse especially if it all goes wrong. If you must take a risk, be sure it is a personal one, not professional. More importantly, check it won't adversely affect anyone else, should the gamble backfire on you. Think twice before taking any kind of impetuous action as there could be more at stake than you realise. You can still engender optimism by being cautious!

You're drawing criticism from people you've always respected and been helpful towards in the past. Slaving away while colleagues or housemates are out having a good time might start to annoy you, especially when they seem ungrateful for all you are doing for them. Could it be you've brought this situation on yourself by being too helpful and considerate? In future, don't be so quick to offer to lend a hand and leave others to fend for themselves!

All the hard work you've been doing these days has left you tired and exhausted but not for long. Energy that drained from you will soon come flooding back. All because of a new exercise program or the fact you're starting to eat more healthily. People are startled by your high spirited mood during an evening get together but they will soon laugh and join in with your crazy antics.

You may have to face some unpleasant truths about a person you've always liked and respected. A senior colleague's insensitive behaviour will cause you to question their motives. They've deliberately hidden a vindictive side of their nature from you. Someone has been trying to prevent you from making a career move you've been contemplating for months. Now you know what they're up to, they can no longer stand in your way.

Your happiness depends on taking back the reins of your life; you can't keep bowing to the needs of others. You will never meet your goals by allowing a cautious friend or loved one to influence your actions. Taking the safe route is not for you now. In some areas of your life you must go with your own instincts, no matter what those who are closest to you have to say.

Some chores you're lumbered with are hardly enjoyable but it's a case of grinning and bearing it. Not all jobs will be fun or pleasant but you need to keep your eye on the main goal. You aren't likely to win a more senior position if you don't pay your dues. At least you can appreciate how people will feel once you're in a position where you're doing the delegating and someone else doing the work.

Revealing something personal to a close friend may bring some relief but leave you with regrets. You might wonder whether they can be trusted. If you aren't used to sharing secrets, it is understandable for you to feel this way. You've never found it easy to discuss your feelings but once you realise someone can be trusted with a confidence, this will give you the courage to reach out in the future too.

If you've not been very creative lately, perhaps you should turn your attention to a form of artistic expression. Decorate the home, write a blog, put your feelings into a romantic verse; your imaginative potential is limitless right now. Another way to stave off boredom is to pamper yourself. Arrange a beauty therapy treatment for today or the weekend or make a reservation at a favourite restaurant.