Go back over a professional situation you thought was over and you'll find there's something more in it for you. You are getting mixed messages about your career, so don't burn any bridges. An offer that was made could be withdrawn, or a promise might be broken or vice versa. Under a renegade retrograde Mercury like it's best to keep your options open. Wait to see how the land lies from the 9th, when you'll have a better grasp and clearer picture of what's going on.

Whatever someone has told you in January will be seen for what it is - a pack of lies so damage limitation is necessary NOW. Travel plans could be upset at the last minute, so be sure you have the option to reschedule or get your money back. Legal matters are also prone to go wrong this week, so don't overplay your hand. This is one of those mercurial periods when your cautious nature turns out to be a blessing instead of a curse. Also, be warned that the more holier than thou a person appears the more likely they are to rook you.

Go through anything pertaining to money or government very carefully and you'll find you're on thin ice unless you act today. If you've been turned down for a loan or credit card in the recent past, don't despair. Now you know what's up you can deal with it and after the weekend the results could be quite different. In the event you are granted a bigger credit line, take it easy. You will still have to pay this money back eventually. Spend it on ventures that will generate more income. An excellent period to retrace your steps over something very intimate to you.

Something said in haste or anger must be retracted or you'll find there's not way back and it will lead to a split. You have reason to feel uncertain about the future with regard to a relationship. Your partner may not be as forthcoming as you need them to be. When it comes to starting afresh in an affair joining up with another secretive person is a recipe for disaster. Bide your time until a more open, honest candidate comes along. It's worth the wait, what you need is total honesty of feelings between you both.

What's given with one hand is taken away with the other this week so do nothing concrete until the weekend at least. It's one step forward, two steps back as far as work or medical matters are concerned; set extremely small goals. Part of the problem is a breakdown in communication. Just because you don't like a colleague doesn't mean you can't do business together. Put your differences aside for the greater good. Both your egos are getting out of control.

Someone younger than you is a temptation and what's worse they want you to do their dirty deeds - now you're on to them, DON'T. A child tells you one thing, then goes ahead and does something entirely different that's because they are adept at moving the goalposts. It's hard not to lose your temper in this situation, but you must remain calm. The young person in question is trying desperately to wind you up. When they see that their tactics aren't working, they'll back down to revert to more reasonable behaviour. Half the trouble is the crowd they are mixing with.

People withholding information are the main cause for disagreements don't make a solid judgement until you know the FULL story. Relatives prove flaky, forcing you to cover up for their unforgivable mistakes. Issuing an ultimatum may be the only way to prevent such things from occurring again. Your good-natured attitude makes it easy for others to fall back on their promises. It's time to show them you mean business and say what you mean AND mean what you say.

You cannot believe what you read or hear for people speak with forked-tongue and will deceive you, if you let them. If you're going to send out anything crucial to your plans wait until Saturday before mailing or calling. Communications have a way of getting snarled when Mercury is retrograde especially as he hops back into Capricorn, which disturbs serious business ideas. Money matters are also a source of concern. Be sure to record each and every payment or you'll come up short by the weekend.

Cutting corners financially will leave you poorer in the end if you've a job to do then do it it well or lose out. This is an opportune time to review your spending habits, as there is room not just for improvement but for a total rethink. Start a savings account while you're in such a responsible frame of mind. Usually, you've got an "easy come, easy go" attitude toward money. Recent events have made you more cautious, and that's a good thing. If necessary ask for a fiscal institution to show you THEIR references before you make any transaction or arrangement.

Mercury rebounds into your sign so something that occurred in January is regurgitated and must be tied up before it trips you up. If you contemplating changing your own life or image then think again before you do anything drastic. Experiments with hair and clothing could prove disastrous as you have completely the wrong impression of yourself. Fall back on a tried but true persona that makes you feel comfortable and secure. There will be plenty of time to try something new after Saturday.

Keep your thoughts to yourself to say too much at this time will cause no-end of hassle and drama for you. Dwelling on the past makes you fearful about trying new things, and that's a shame. Whilst this isn't a good time to embark on adventure, it's important to remain open to different experiences. Set one goal that you'd like to meet by the time spring arrives. You can't afford to have regrets now. In a few days time you will get the green light to move ahead with a personal plan or idea but for now, do nothing.

A younger friend dares you to do something because they wouldn't dare, see through them before it's too late. You may want to think twice about joining an organisation or society, as its constitution may clash with your principles. It's quite possible that the members are presenting only one side of themselves to you, in the hopes that you'll sign on. You have better things to do with your time and money than give it to people who are alien to your scruples. Look for a more suitable group that you can really get behind without ever being an apologist.