Career setbacks are disappointing but inevitable, so it's best just to accept them. Understand that any possibilities that are suddenly withdrawn weren't worth having, anyway. There's a bigger plan at work here. So long as you believe something good will come from this confusion, it will. In the meantime, focus your energies on having the nicest Christmas ever. Friends and relatives make trouble seem far away.

Revising some deeply held beliefs isn't a sign of weakness; it's a mark of maturity. You can't expect to maintain the same outlook after all the experience you've gained. You might not be able to avoid new commitments conflicting with your daily work schedule. Although this may be annoying, be assured that you will have another opportunity to pursue these plans. Until then, think about setting some new Christmas traditions.

If you think you've spent too much on Christmas gifts, tally up the receipts. It may be necessary to return a few items. Don't be ashamed; it's easy to get carried away with all the glorious window displays out there. Your loved ones will appreciate whatever you give; the important thing is to spend some quality time together. Writing a heartfelt letter to somebody who lives far away is the best present ever.

Communications with a partner could be strained for the next few weeks. It seems as though your priorities are completely different. This doesn't mean the end of your relationship, provided you're both willing to make some adjustments. Resist the urge, however, to bring up sensitive subjects in mixed company. You wouldn't want to drag friends and family into a situation that really involves just the two of you.

All the excitement that's been swirling around you may take a toll on your health. You may have to refuse a few social invitations in the interests of getting better. This comes to a crushing blow to a festive person like yourself, but understand that there are more serious considerations than fun and games. Your energy will slowly return by the first week of January, but until then, keep a low profile.

Although you've made lots of exciting plans this Christmas, you may have to scale them back. A child or lover needs your undivided attention, and that won't be possible if you're busy planning festivities. Ask a trusted friend to take over your less important duties, and focus on the person in crisis. There's no better way to show your love and devotion this Christmas. Besides, giving to others appeals to your nurturing instincts.

Relatives are driving you crazy, refusing to give you straight answers to questions. Instead of letting these scatterbrains ruin your good mood, let them straighten out their messes amongst themselves. If you find yourself feeling boxed and claustrophobic, clear out your closets and a few dresser drawers. Making physical space in your life for happiness will give you a head start on New Year's Resolutions. It pays to be prepared!

It may be necessary to revise your daily routine to accommodate seasonal merry-making. Although it's difficult for you to switch gears quickly, make the sacrifice for relatives and neighbours they may be counting on you to provide the festive cheer. Hosting a party or fund raiser will bring people together in the spirit of friendship. That's no small task these days, when tempers are running high and time is getting short.

Thinking up new ways to make money helps you through this expensive time of year. Traditional sources of income could dry up, forcing you to find creative solutions to financial obligations. Fortunately, there are plenty of people in need of services right now. Caring for children, running errands, and cleaning homes are all good ways to turn a profit. Before taking on any extra work, however, be sure to attend to your own needs.

Revising a self-improvement plan is a wise idea, as you may have bitten off more than you can chew. The festive season only adds to your stress level. Go easy on yourself and scale back goals. Give yourself praise when even the smallest advances are made. Above all, don't beat yourself up if you experience an occasional setback. Fear not; your progress will escalate dramatically after the first week of January.

Neglecting your spiritual needs is a serious mistake, particularly at this time of year. Think back to activities that once provided a sense of meaning and fulfilment. When is the last time you engaged in these practices? Maybe it's time to resume them. If you'd rather try something different, by all means do. The important thing is to look deep within your soul and assess what it needs to thrive. Trust your instincts.

Friends may have to back out of a traditional Christmas get together, which is upsetting. Instead of dwelling on your disappointment, think of how you can spread the festive spirit to those less fortunate. Bringing toys or sweeties to the children's ward of the hospital will refresh your spirit, as will visiting a home for the elderly. There are so many people who feel sad and lonely during this magical season. Offer some warm companionship.