You may have to juggle your budget to accommodate last-minute household expenses. Instead of dwelling on your losses, focus on the value of the work that is being performed. It's hard to put an adequate price on things we usually take for granted, like running water, adequate heat or efficient electricity. Another opportunity to buy luxuries will arrive; right now, you must focus on essentials. If you're in the red then ask for a loan, but know your monetary limitations to take account of playback time.

Criticism from an unexpected source really smarts under any circumstances. However, you can lessen the sting by dropping any defensive posturing. If somebody has negative comments for you, simply listen. Don't offer objections, excuses or threats. Your calm attitude will either allow you to recognise that your performance does need improvement, or reveal your critic's mean spirited intentions. Either way, you'll emerge as the victor of this contest of wills.

It will be hard to achieve distinction from your efforts if you don't stick with a project and see it through to the finish. If you feel you're wasting your time with a particular job, turn your attention to a hobby instead. This may be all you need to recharge your batteries. You've got a complicated intellect that needs constant stimulation to stay sharp. By varying your activities, you'll elude the boredom that's always creeping upon you. Boredom only leads to depression so keep eluding it.

Someone may ask for help that you're not prepared to give, which puts you in a quandary. You hate to appear ungenerous, but the fact is you need to preserve your resources and energy. Since there is no easy way to sugar coat the situation, you're best off being honest. It's possible your relationship will experience a temporary rift. If that's the case, soothe your pain by doing something that brings you pleasure. Let a pastime lift your spirits, if you have pets or children then their innocence will help you get complex adult affairs into perspective.

Any criticism about where you live could throw you into an irrational frenzy today. Few people realise how much of yourself is wrapped up in your home or family. Even innocent jokes feel like personal assaults to you. With that in mind, it's probably a good idea to limit visitors to close friends who understand your profound connection to your sense of place. If you've a social gathering scheduled, remember to watch your temper.

Getting on someone's wavelength is trial and error today and that can lead to trouble. Perhaps you totally misunderstand their motives or maybe they put you on the defensive. Whatever the cause of trouble, it's probably a wise idea to put some distance between you. A third party may be able to straighten out this mess, but don't ask for their help for another few days. The needs to be a cooling down period.

Much as you'd like to pick up the bill each time you go out, that's just not possible and nobody will think any more of you in the long run. If somebody invites you to a venue that could leave you out of pocket then make your excuses. It isn't worth going broke just to keep up appearances. Curbing an expensive hobby would be wise too. Chances are you can have just as much fun researching or looking into your pastime so save you having to add to your collection. The glamorous life is overrated and over indulgent at the moment.

Your forceful personality creates a rift at home and with others, but it can't be helped until you tailor your reactions to suit the people around you. Before you pack your bags or do something stupid consider whether you can amend your behaviour so it is less disruptive. It's fine to be angry, sad or depressed, but you shouldn't expect everything to grind to a halt when you're out of temper. Channel negative emotions into private letter writing, music, the arts or creative crafts.

It's pointless to hide your frustration toward a loved one, because it will come out in other ways. Freudian slips have a way of betraying your true emotions. Maybe the real problem is that a certain someone isn't allowing you to express yourself in an honest way. A confrontation maybe in order. If any of your relationships can't support an open exchange of ideas, it's probably not worth pursuing. Test out this theory before you go any further.

Staying with a group that affords you prestige is not the best strategy. Pretending to be friends with people you dislike wastes valuable time and energy. You're better off devoting yourself to those individuals who bring out the best in you, even if they aren't members of the glitterati or elite. A sudden change in finances may force you to adjust your social habits, anyway. Spend a quiet evening away from life's hustle and bustle so you can catch up on your own quality time.

You're so intent on making a good impression that you could make an impulsive error. The less attention you call to the situation, the better. Actually, your mistake may well be a blessing in disguise. You're not the type of person who can squeeze themselves into a mould; you've got to be yourself. By expressing your genuine personality, you'll have a much better chance of winning the favours you so desire. Drop the act no matter how good you are at it.

Be patient with a person who is jealous of a particular friend; a little reassurance goes a long way. Resist the urge to cut and run if a close relationship feels too stifling. By sticking it out now, it will be easier to work and ease through problems in the future. You have a tendency to swim in the other direction when trouble is forecast. Avoid the temptation or this could become a self-destructive habit. Confronting what we dislike or despise may not be savoury but it is healthy.