Well meaning friends could lead you down the garden path, if you're not careful. You're better off following your instincts. You've always had a healthy scepticism of conventional wisdom. If pals assure you a certain path is foolproof, you're bound to look at it with a jaundiced eye. Go off in your own direction, even if it means courting public disapproval. In the end, everyone will wish they were as smart as you.

You may have an unrealistic attitude about your professional responsibilities. If you keep encountering the same criticism from different bosses and colleagues, you need to make a change. Stop insisting that the problem is theirs, not yours. The sooner you yield to public pressure, the easier your work will become. Try not to be so stubborn about trying new methods. When you're receptive to suggestions, others will respect you.

Don't put too much stock into what a respected expert has to say. This person probably has issues of their own. When it comes right down to it, you've got to obey your own conscience. If you feel as though you're not pushing yourself hard enough, do one thing to advance towards a cherished dream. If you feel you've overextended yourself, start scaling back your responsibilities. Deep down inside, you know what's best.

Keep careful tabs of a retirement fund or joint bank account. People will be far less likely to take advantage of you when you demonstrate an interest in your own affairs. If finances have been a continued source of struggle in a relationship, it may be best to keep your money separate or at the very least insist on having your say on how the cash is being spent. Put your foot down now and keep it down.

Don't ever assume you know what a business associate or lover is thinking. If you'd like to improve your relationship, ask your partner for three things that you could do to improve your bond. Then ask for three things that you do well. The answers may astonish you. Resist the urge to defend yourself when the areas of improvement are listed. This will show that you respect your friend's feelings.

If you feel as though colleagues take advantage of you, do something to end the situation. Stop volunteering to take over projects at the first sign of trouble. Be willing to say 'no' when others ask you to assume their duties. It's all a matter of establishing firm personal boundaries. It's only natural others seek your help. You're the most capable one in the group. Therefore, you need to protect your interests.

Someone may be playing with your affections, which makes you justifiably angry. Stop putting yourself at this person's disposal, and don't be so susceptible to their charms. Be willing to call them on their lame apologies, and refuse to reschedule broken appointments. The sooner you demonstrate you demand respect, the faster they will get their act together. If you don't see any improvement, drop them like a hot potato.

It's possible you're talking at cross-purposes with a relative. You're expressing your needs, and they're communicating theirs, but neither of you is hearing the other. The next time your loved one begins to talk about their concerns, listen. Resist the temptation to interrupt. As soon as you give this person the benefit of the doubt, the faster your problems will be resolved. Never fear; you'll get a chance to air your grievances, too!

Communications with a colleague are a bit difficult right now. You're trying to be tactful, but this person continues to take offence at everything you say. What you need is an honest, no holds barred conversation. Be willing to tell them exactly what you feel, but never be malicious. In turn, you'll have to hear some pretty harsh truths about yourself. In the end, you'll both be glad to put these problems behind you.

Avoid get-rich-quick schemes like the plague; they're not worth your time or effort. If you haven't had a raise in a long time, it may be time to ask or your employer may take advantage of you. Usually, you're on the ball with money matters. Right now, though, you're avoiding fundamental truths about your financial situation. The sooner you face reality, the easier it will be to attract the abundance you deserve.

It's hard to be satisfied with your home life when you're upholding an impossible ideal. The fact is, all families are fraught with difficulty. The challenge is to accept people's weaknesses and celebrate their strengths. This is especially hard to do with relatives who engage in toxic behaviour. Put some distance between you and the crazy makers, and draw closer to those who support and love you. A little discernment goes a long way.

When it comes to dealing with large institutions, like government agencies and hospitals, be prepared. You're going to need plenty of documentation to gain access to certain services. Bring both financial statements and personal identification. The more paperwork you have, the better. It's always good to call ahead to find out what you need, but take some extra proof, just in case the bureaucrats aren't satisfied with the bare minimum.