You're a lot more shy and sensitive than you pretend. Putting on a brave face helps command respect. It does make it difficult to form friendships. If you've had difficulty finding people who make you feel emotionally supported, let down your guard. You don't have to be a pushover, but it will help to give people a glimpse of your private life. This will open the door for conversations and outings. Pretty soon, you will be surrounded with friends.

Beware of idealising a friend or romantic partner. Although you have tremendous admiration for this loved one, they do have human frailties. Don't entrust someone with financial decisions if they can't handle money. Similarly, you shouldn't expect them to do lots of housework if cleanliness isn't a priority. The sooner you adopt a realistic view of this relationship, the easier it will be to handle its challenges. If you've been putting up with abuse, leave now. You deserve respect, kindness and love.

If you've fallen in love with someone who isn't right for you, walk away. You have more important things to do with your time and energy. When it comes to partnerships, you simply have to be demanding. Settling for second best will just make you miserable. The worst case scenario is being single but happy. A person with your interests and versatility can easily handle it. Be willing to venture into the unknown. You've done it before and you can do it again.

People are afraid of you, which is simultaneously good and bad. Your intimidating image drives away manipulators, which is always a plus. When it comes to love, it may be difficult to find romance. Timid admirers are afraid to come forward. You'll have to make all the moves. Fortunately, this is easy for a Cardinal sign like you. If you're already in a relationship, reassure your amour of your affection. Sometimes your forbidding attitude can come between you.

Nobody likes to argue with loved ones, but it's inevitable. Recently, your resentment over a friend's inconsiderate behaviour has grown. It seems incredible they don't understand how their actions are affecting you, but it is possible. Your first order of business is to voice complaints without getting too emotional. The more rational you are, the easier it will be to resolve the issue. Be willing to carry through with an ultimatum or the situation will continue to spiral out of control.

There won't be much time to relax and enjoy life. Normally, this isn't a problem. Recently, you've been asked to cover for a lot of colleagues and this trend is wearing on your nerves. You don't think time off is too much to ask. Unfortunately, a staffing shortage doesn't make it possible. You may want to explore the idea of getting a different job. Alternatively, you can ask for a raise or get paid on a commission basis.

It's time to let go of conventional attitudes regarding family life. Things have changed since you were growing up. Being more accommodating to different lifestyles will be deeply appreciated by certain relatives. When working with a large group, you'll have to assume leadership. This will require making snap decisions, which has never been your strong suit. It will help to know you'll earn more respect by being more decisive. Instead of worrying about making everyone happy, focus on doing the greatest good for the largest amount of people.

Flattery won't get you anywhere. It's better to be honest with a relative who has their head in the clouds. This will cause tension on the domestic front, but that's better than letting these delusions continue. Working behind the scenes can improve your career standing. Your boss will appreciate your selfless attitude. Don't be surprised when you're rewarded with a raise, promotion or plum assignment. You could even be given a beautiful workspace of your very own.

Keep an eye on your budget. Expensive temptations confront you at every turn. It's important to save as much as you can. Emergency expenses will require you to dig deeper than usual. Pattern your behaviour after a frugal friend who knows how to find good bargains. Go to the library for free books and movies. Cook your own food instead of eating out. These small economies will eventually add up to a big savings. If you're careful, you can pay off bills and have an occasional splurge.

Loved ones don't seem very grateful for your contributions, which is hurtful. Instead of wallowing in your sorrow, do something nice for yourself. Get a spa treatment, enjoy a gourmet meal or get some retail therapy. You work so hard that you deserve a reward. Unfortunately, your first impulse is to shower gifts on your nearest and dearest, while you stay deprived. Put your own needs first. You'll feel much better about yourself, as well as your relationships.

Intense feelings are creating problems at work. A colleague who keeps pushing your buttons is undermining your productivity. If you're being harassed or bullied, notify your superiors immediately. It's important they understand what is happening. Are you dealing with a personality clash? Think about how you've been contributing to the problem. Do whatever you can to make amends. If your tormentor sees you are willing to compromise, they'll change, too.

You want a fair say in a partnership. Lately, your best friend or romantic partner has been steamrolling over your needs. It's time to put an end to this dynamic. Although you hate confrontation, you simply must speak your mind. Your loved one will be defensive at first. By giving concrete examples of the problem, they'll slowly see the light. It would be helpful to give a list of suggestions that will give you a greater measure of power.