You're starting to wonder why you are friends with someone who constantly belittles you. At first, you were drawn to their outspokenness. Now you realise that behind their outlandish comments exists a great deal of hostility. Move on to greener pastures. Being surrounded by pleasant people who appreciate your talent will be a refreshing change. Don't let your former friend back into your life, as he'll quickly fall back into the same pattern that annoyed you in the first place.

Mixing business with pleasure is a really bad idea. You don't want your professional reputation flawed by a pointless fling. If you are irresistibly drawn to a colleague, one of you should find a job elsewhere. Already have a lover? Your amour may resent all the time you're spending at the office. It's not like you enjoy spending so much time away from home; it's just you're intent on getting ahead. Still, you have to consider what the point of all this work is.

Someone you thought was your friend will show their true colours. This extremely painful realisation is a shock to your system. The best remedy is to be as kind to yourself as possible. Seek the company of a loyal friend and confess the situation in its embarrassing entirety. The more you talk, the better you'll feel. It's clear you've been the victim of a cruel opportunist. Now your eyes have been opened, you'll know what to look for in the future.

Don't feel pressured into spending as much money as your peers. While you long for the same sorts of luxuries, you simply can't afford them. Chances are, they can't afford them, either. The difference between you and them is you know the importance of saving for the future. Instead of wasting your hard earned cash on expensive status symbols, put it into a retirement or college account. Having a nest egg will give you something money can't buy: peace of mind.

It's so painful when someone doesn't return your romantic interest. Still, just because the object of your affection is blind to your charms doesn't mean you are undesirable. Cast your net wider. If you're already in a relationship, you may sense some emotional distance between you and your partner. Maybe it's because you have been neglecting your hobbies. When your intellect is engaged, you become an interesting person. Develop your passion for painting, fashion or film.

Overindulging in food and drink is starting to catch up with you. Perhaps you can't fit into your favourite pair of jeans, or maybe you have a hard time keeping awake towards the end of the day. Whatever the situation, don't fall into the trap of berating yourself. Instead, step up your fitness routine. You don't have to do anything drastic. Just prepare some nutritious meals, take brisk walks at lunch, and avoid eating after 7 pm. Slowly but surely, your healthy glow will return.

A romance is falling short of your expectations. This isn't the first time you've experienced such disappointment. In the beginning, relationships are always exciting. Then, as time goes on, you start noticing little flaws in your beloved. These annoying traits become more and more bothersome the longer you're together. What's really at work here is your desire for change. The first taste of love is always intoxicating, but it takes real maturity to stick with a partner when real life comes crashing in.

A difficult work situation is starting to affect your home life. You can't let this situation spiral out of control any longer. You either need to confront the source of the trouble or find another job. Although your family is sympathetic to your situation, they can only minister to you for so long. If push comes to shove, you may need to leave your employer without having another work situation lined up. Don't worry; a better opportunity will soon fall into your lap.

You try to be respectful of other people's beliefs, but they don't always extend the same courtesy towards you. If someone offends your sensibilities, speak up. You don't have to make a big show of things, but a quiet request for tolerance should do the trick. In cases like these, dignity wins over self righteousness. Even if your tormentor refuses to back down, you'll win the support of the people who witness this encounter. Don't be surprised when people show their gratitude in an unconventional way.

Financial security should not be the basis for a romantic relationship. If you and your lover are having money problems, you need to form a united front. Create a budget designed to pay your bills and keep your living expenses low. Debt that has spiralled out of control demands immediate attention. Ask a money manager who can help you out of this hole. It may take months or even years, but at least you'll be working with your partner, instead of against him or her.

It may be impossible to express your creative side right now. A series of serious problems are crowding your plate, and won't go away until you find practical solutions. You're so tired of being the responsible one, but there isn't anyone else who can capably handle these chores. In a few weeks, your schedule will open up. When it does, travel to a secluded spot where you can write, paint or play music to your heart's content.

A colleague's nasty comments are chipping away at your self esteem. The only way to deal with a bully is to stand up to them. Tell them in no uncertain terms you won't tolerate their abuse. If the nastiness continues, tell your boss. Although you hate being a tattletale, you also hate having to bury your rage every time your tormentor approaches. You'll be surprised at how many people rally to your side after exposing this idiot's intolerable behaviour.