You can't help but feel drawn to a dark, brooding figure who has a dim view of the future. It gives you so much pleasure to bring a rare smile to your amour's face. Unfortunately, their attitude is starting to dampen your own vivacity. Consider whether this relationship is really worth all of this time and effort. Your pioneer spirit requires a great deal of energy and enthusiasm. You can't possibly get ideas off the ground if your partner is always discouraging them.

If you want to lose weight, resist going on one of those crash diets that deprive you of your favourite foods. Such a programme just makes you irritable. You're better off opting for a nutritional programme that places great emphasis on strong flavours. Delicious soups, salads, fruit and cheese can take the place of rich desserts. It's all a matter of satisfying your palate. Nobody can expect to stick to a diet that consists of rice cakes and celery sticks.

You've always had loads of interests, but lately there just doesn't seem to be any time for hobbies. It's up to you to change your priorities. Cut back your work hours, even if it angers your boss. You've always been able to do the work of two or three people, so you needn't feel guilty about doing less. Unless you make time for the people and activities you love, you'll continue to feel cheated. Bitterness and resentment don't suit a vivacious soul like you.

Responsibilities towards family feel burdensome right now, no wonder you prefer sneaking off with a romantic partner. Part of the problem is you're not establishing firm enough boundaries. Letting your relatives comment on your personal life is causing unnecessary strain. When forced to choose between family members and the object of your affection, pick the latter. Eventually, your kin will come around and stop treating your amour like a second class citizen.

Although you're a naturally warm person, lately you've had difficulty opening up to neighbours, shop keepers, and colleagues. The idea of letting down your guard with people you see on a daily basis is unsettling. Maybe they'll realise you're a lot more sentimental and vulnerable than you pretend. Unfortunately, your chilly demeanour is giving you the reputation for being a snob. Open up a little more. The more friends you have, the less hostile the world will seem.

You're sceptical about your ability to make money in this kind of economy. On the contrary; you can make a very good living, provided you make the most of your skills. You're very intelligent and have a fine eye for detail. Stress these skills when going on interviews. Ask a successful executive to help you revamp your CV. Their tips will be invaluable. You have to promote your abilities if you're going to get your foot in the door. There's no room for humility here!

Your gloomy attitude is driving people away so try to adopt a more cheerful demeanour, even if you feel like a hypocrite. A relative who has heard terrific news deserves to be congratulated. Don't take the wind out of their sails by warning them about all the things that could possibly go wrong. If you've had difficulty finding work, it may be because you're not projecting yourself with enough optimism or enthusiasm. Let your zest for life shine through.

Deep seated fears are getting the best of you. It's important to face down these phobias, once and for all or you'll never realise your full potential. Just talking about the problem can release your anxieties. You don't have to put up with any unsatisfactory situations any longer. The time has come for you to take destiny by the horns and carve out your own potentials and possibilities. Those who know and love you best will be there to cheer you on.

You feel quite lonely these days, and it's no wonder. Friends have been preoccupied with their own problems, and have effectively shut you out of their lives. Instead of dwelling on your sorrow, do something nice for yourself. Join a club or sports team. Reach out to a newcomer at work. Bring a cake over to a person who has just moved to the neighbourhood. By taking the initiative to meet people, you'll get plugged back into the social scene.

A refusal to come off your high horse will create lots of resentment. You need to fraternise with all the members of your team, from exalted executives to the lowliest assistants. The more outgoing you are, the more respected you will be. Remember, your success is the result of a team effort. If you have a meeting about a delicate matter with your boss, try not to get too emotional. A logical approach will make the best impression. Stick to the facts.

You may not approve of a relative's new friend, but resist the urge to air your feelings or you could create a big rift in the family. Granted, this newcomer can be rude and crude, but maybe that's part of the appeal. Putting too much emphasis on manners can make others feel oppressed. Loosen up just a little bit. You may be surprised what you learn from people you'd normally avoid. Appearances can be deceiving.

As much as you hate to admit it, change is on the horizon. A relationship is going out of your life, and there's nothing you can do about it. Every cloud has a silver lining. You'll be forced to become much more independent as a result of this break. Whether you learn how to drive, fix appliances, pay bills, or run a household, your ego will soar. You're a lot more resourceful than you suspect. Give yourself a chance to paddle your own canoe.