Your popularity will suffer after you are forced to make a controversial decision. You don't want to disappoint anyone, but sometimes it's necessary to cut your losses. A romantic or business partner will be especially discouraged. There may not be anything you can do to ease their mind. Stay busy by organising your closets, cleaning out your drawers and getting rid of any clutter. The more streamlined your surroundings, the happier you'll be.

Don't take it personally if someone challenges your political or religious ideas. Everyone has a right to their own opinion. Talking about controversial issues is always tricky, because people tend to get their feelings hurt. The best way to avoid trouble is to stick to subjects that are less upsetting, like books, movies and popular culture. Of course, there are some people who get upset at everything, mainly because they're emotionally immature.

An angry battle over shared resources is draining. You're not sure if it's all worth it. Before you throw in the towel, consider how hard you've worked. Is it fair that a greedy business or romantic partner gets to walk away with all the spoils? Lean on a friend who has experienced a similar battle. Their advice and encouragement will be invaluable. Developing your creative talent can also be therapeutic. Painting, writing, dancing, or playing music will take your mind off your troubles.

A violent obsession has got to end; it doesn't matter if you're addicted to a person, substance, or activity. You must adopt healthier pastimes. Distance is critical to your happiness. Cut yourself off from any people or places that put you in the path of danger. When your own resolve proves weak, you should reach out to a counsellor. An objective third party will help you build strategies for staying strong. Stop wasting your energy on things that make you unhappy.

Unhealthy surroundings must be avoided like the plague. You may not realise it, but your environment has a powerful effect on your outlook. The sooner you leave for greener pastures, the happier you will be. Leaving a job may be scary, especially in this economy. If you're not ready to take such a drastic step, start looking for new opportunities. Eventually, you'll find a position that is much better suited to you and you'll be able to quit your current job without a qualm.

A possessive lover or youngster is wearing you down. You have to foster a greater measure of independence, or your relationship will quickly deteriorate. It's nice to be wanted, but there's a difference between a healthy desire and obsessive need. Consider how you may have contributed to the problem. Encourage your friend to do things for themselves, whether it's cooking, driving, developing outside interests whatever it takes to take the pressure off you.

You're being forced to part with some precious possessions and it's physically painful. You're a lot more sentimental than you pretend. Still, there's no way you'll be able to cling to the past any longer. Say a fond farewell to the things that kept you anchored to childhood and then move forward with new resolve. Buy in some supplies that reflect your latest goals. Art supplies, fabric, film, musical instruments whatever you need for your future plans. The best is yet to be!

A series of local crimes has you on alert, so it's essential to take precautions to protect your property, whether it's installing an outdoor light that operates on a motion detector or replacing old locks for superior models. The more proactive you are, the safer you will be. It's also important to keep an eye out for any unusual activity. If you see someone skulking outside your neighbour's property, you might want to call the police, just to be on the safe side. Trust your intuition.

Power struggles over money will erupt; you've got to stand in your own defence. Don't let someone take more than their fair share, even if you feel guilty about your role in the relationship. Everyone needs to be responsible for what they've contributed. If you're having trouble paying your bills, contact your creditors. You can work out a payment plan that takes the pressure off you and still allows you to meet your obligations. Creditors are more apt to negotiate in this economy.

Facing your fears is critical to your personal development. Lately, you've been scared to deal with an intimidating authority figure. Their unpredictable behaviour is unsettling. You can't afford to let them lash out at you. The next time it happens, you've got to draw a line in the sand. Don't let people put you down. Fighting against these abuses will give them a new respect for you. There's a high price to pay for being agreeable all the time.

You're struggling with a lot of confusing emotions. It's especially difficult to make sense of the anger that has been building inside you. A counsellor or group therapy will help you come to terms with these feelings. Alternatively, you might try writing in a diary. The key is finding an outlet for your impulses. If you don't, they'll come out in embarrassing ways. Think back on a time when you lashed out at an innocent victim. Take steps this won't happen again.

Taking a leadership position is the last thing you want to do. Unfortunately, your friends keep pushing you towards the top spot. The only way you'll get them to back off is to be direct. Explain you have too much on your plate to assume additional responsibilities. In the past, you were the one who was always left with distasteful jobs, mostly because you were too scared to refuse. You've come a long way since then and are ready to erect some strong personal boundaries.