Throwing lots of money at an expensive amusement is ill advised today. No matter how tempting the prospect, you simply can't afford it right now. Instead of getting angry over your situation, find another way to amuse yourself. Too often, advertisers would have you believe that you must be a millionaire in order to have a good time. Prove them wrong by devoting yourself to a neglected hobby. Your enthusiasm will return almost immediately.

You may be expecting too much from your loved ones, and thereby setting yourself up for disappointment. If a relative has a track record of being irresponsible, don't entrust them with important duties. Instead, rely on your own capabilities. If you can't handle certain chores alone, hire a professional. Some may scoff at your extravagance, but what they won't realise is that you've saved yourself a great deal of aggravation.

Communicating with people who have different values than you can be extremely difficult. Your subconscious may be telling you to stay away from these folks, but your eagerness to connect could drive you forward anyway. If you discover midway through a project that it is doomed to failure, don't be afraid to back out. You have every right to change your mind, even if it causes inconvenience. Cancelling a short trip may be necessary.

You've got your goals clearly in mind, but may not have the financial means to realise them. A cautious friend may try to discourage you from further developing your plans. Don't pay any attention to their dire predictions. Your situation is only temporary. By looking around for alternate means to fund your dream, you could go farther than you've ever imagined. A few risks are all that stand between you and victory.

Think twice before approaching authority figures with any bright ideas. Although you're certain that these notions have terrific merit, your superiors may not be receptive to them today. Wait a few days before making your pitch. In time, you may find ways to fine-tune your presentation. Ask a discerning friend for advice on how best to promote these concepts. You could get some valuable advice in the fine art of persuasion.

Your educational or religious views could prevent you from fulfilling your potential. Somehow, you've convinced yourself that you aren't worthy of certain rewards. Take this opportunity to examine your belief system and see how it matches with reality. Have you noticed that self-confident people are often very successful? Try building your ego by reciting personal affirmations to yourself each morning. Don't forget to praise your many skills!

You're eager to make some major changes, but this isn't the best time to enact them. A friend who made grandiose promises may not be in the position to help you. Work on reinforcing strained relationships. A person who seems indifferent could actually be harbouring some very deep emotions toward you. Begin a dialogue today. What results could be one of the most rewarding conversations you'll ever have this year.

A public figure's behaviour could rub you the wrong way, dredging up strong resentments. Perhaps the reason you are so angry is that this person is doing things that you've always wanted to do. It's probably true that you could do a better job than the object of your anger, but you'll never know until you try. Consider taking a more visible stance about the issues that are important to you. You can't blossom in the shadows.

You may be giving your colleagues too much credit, which can lead to trouble. Don't assume that everybody understands the instructions they've been given. It's even possible that members of your team don't have the necessary skills to carry out certain jobs. You're better off walking everybody through a demonstration several times before embarking on a big project. Be patient and open to questions, no matter how silly.

An idealistic attitude about love could get you in trouble with a potential paramour. You may misinterpret this person's interest as being noble, when it's really based on lust. Although it's flattering to realise that this person wants you in their bed, you can't help but be a little insulted by their attitude. Be wary about revealing intimate secrets, as they could be used against you at a later date. Protect yourself against betrayals.

Your ideas about how your household should be organised may not match those of a loved one. Instead of insisting on doing things your way, enact a compromise. This may involve your being a little less fastidious or a bit more flexible about your living space. By demonstrating that you are willing to meet your partner halfway, though, you'll experience a new comfort level in your relationship. It's worth the sacrifice.

Someone could use your generosity against you today, pushing off their duties onto you. Instead of accepting this situation with a fake smile and gritted teeth, put your foot down. If this person tries to use your words against you, apologise for having caused the misunderstanding and hold your ground. No fair-minded person will think that you've gone against your word. It's clear you're dealing with a manipulator.