Falling for a hard luck story will get you in trouble. You can't afford to waste your precious resources on somebody who is their own worst enemy. Fortunately, your friends are able to sniff out opportunists, and will chase them away as soon as they come knocking. Defer to their judgements. Although it makes you uncomfortable to turn away a person who claims to be in need, you have to protect your own interests. Don't be played for a fool.

It's frustrating to keep silent when everyone else is voicing ignorant opinions. Still, you're better off watching and waiting for the opportune moment to make a suggestion, rather than contributing to all the existing confusion. Your calm attitude will be rewarded by an authority figure who is sick of dealing with hysterics. Just sit tight on the sidelines. Eventually, the person in charge will notice your presence and ask if there is anything they can do to help.

Your boss resents your superior knowledge and experience. It may be best to stay quiet while they try to find the solution to a relatively easy problem. By refusing to come to their aid, you'll draw attention to their ignorance. Eventually, people will see the writing on the wall and hand the reins of power over to you. Don't let this new position go to your head. Be willing to draw on the gifts of your team, and give credit where credit is due.

Winning isn't everything. Sometimes you must yield the floor to people who are more talented and capable. That doesn't mean you'll never have a shot of victory. It just means this isn't your time. Instead of wallowing in self pity, take this opportunity to get back to basics. Reconnect with someone you love. Pamper yourself with luxuries like gourmet food, spa treatments, and beautiful clothing. You've got to rest and recuperate before rejoining the fray.

The changes you desire won't happen overnight. You will meet with resistance very soon. When that happens, resist the urge to push back twice as hard. A strategic retreat will yield more impressive results. Take your cues from a friend, lover, or business contact who refuses to get upset over small disappointments. Exhibiting grace under fire will cause your enemies to back down. Then, and only then can you proceed with your plans. Consider this a lesson in patience.

You resent someone's attempts to control you. If the two of you are going to work together you both have to operate by a set of rules. This means curbing your desires and working for the greater good of your partnership. Cut back your spending, keep your temper in check, and stop insisting your way is the only way. On the plus side, a plum position will be awarded to you. With your blend of creativity and ingenuity, you're bound to succeed with this initiative.

You could do yourself an injury at the gym, so try to slow down your pace. Don't try to be a hero and lift a package that's too heavy or work more than you can handle. You have some fun plans, and it would be a shame to spoil them because you developed a sprain or stress related injury. If you're looking for love, you could find it at a book club, political organisation, or arts collective. Be on the lookout for a cool rebel.

You hate being ripped away from a pleasurable pursuit, but try not to complain too bitterly. Everybody has to settle down and get to work if a project is going to be finished on time. Your family is very supportive right now, and can help you make a painful transition. It's never easy accepting responsibility, but it helps when the people who know and love you are firmly behind you. If you feel scattered, clean your living space from top to bottom.

There's lots of drama occurring on the home front, which is the last thing you want. Still, it's important to deal with a relative or roommate who is in crisis. If you keep ignoring their problems, there will be an even worse disaster on your hands. Do some research into rehabilitation facilities or charitable outlets. There's no harm in getting help. In fact, reaching out can make you a better person, because it will teach you humility.

You will lose an argument if you unleash your anger. Be aware that a rival is trying to bait you. This pest may be nice to your face, but has been harbouring lots of resentment towards you. It's because you have all the leadership ability they lack. If you have found fault with their methods, resist the urge to criticise them in public. The more calm and self assured you appear, the easier it will be to get your needs met.

No matter how hard you try, you won't be able to stretch your finances as much as you need. You'll need to come up with an alternative plan to cover your bills. Trading services is always an option. Finding new sources of income is another. You've always liked the idea of working for yourself and with your innovative thinking you'll soon be making a tidy profit. There's always a way, provided you're willing to think creatively.

Resist the urge to play martyr when things go wrong. The only way you're going to surmount your problems is to withdraw from the crowd and consult your heart. There may be a reason you have been denied certain opportunities. If that's the case, prepare yourself for a new adventure. Being thrust into the spotlight is never comfortable, but at least it will give you a chance to show off your creative talent. Look for the silver lining.