It's difficult for you to overcome a slight. Normally, you're quick to forgive and forget, but not in this situation. The person who has offended you seems totally unrepentant. You're worried if you let down your guard, they'll try to take advantage of you again. Take strength from the knowledge you have many caring friends and relatives who will rally to your defence. If you find yourself in the middle of the battle again, you'll have plenty of reinforcements to back you up.

Fear of rejection is stopping you making the connections you need. Start practicing the fine art of conversation. Prepare a list of subjects you can discuss with strangers. Knowing what questions to ask is half the battle. People always enjoy those who take an interest in their ideas. Of course, you don't want to get too personal at first. Still, asking about somebody's favourite books and movies can lead to a real kinship. Your nervousness will subside when you feel prepared.

Focusing on trivial problems is wasting valuable time and energy. You've got to consider the big picture. Turning in a perfect performance is less important than meeting a deadline. Skimp on aspects of the job that won't receive lots of scrutiny. You'll have a chance to go back and correct them later. By turning around this project in a timely fashion, you'll make a name for yourself in your desired industry. Pretty soon, customers will beat a path to your door.

Having unrealistic expectations is making you miserable. You have to accept the fact you're in a situation where people are content to do the bare minimum. The sooner you leave this environment, the better. You're incredibly ambitious and hate wasting your efforts on people who don't appreciate them. When you get tired of beating your head against a brick wall, retreat to some quiet spot where you can read, regroup, and revitalise. This, too, shall pass!

Your family isn't very sympathetic to your situation, which is frustrating. You're a very warm and loving person, and never hesitate to offer a hug or word of encouragement to loved ones. The fact you're not getting the same consideration is bewildering. Instead of looking to your kin for comfort, seek the company of friends. Invite someone who has a gift with words for drinks. Their perspective will help you see your problems in a whole new light.

You hate having to speak before large crowds, but there's no avoiding it. Until you share your concerns with the group, they will never be fixed. Beware of letting emotion seep into your voice when giving your presentation. The more cool and logical you appear the better. If you play your cards right, an authority figure will ask for your help with an ongoing project. Your sharp mind and keen wit are valuable assets. Use them to work your way into the executive circle.

You long to be spontaneous, but you just can't with all the financial obligations weighing down on you. It's time to double your efforts and pay off your bills. If that means staying away from your favourite shops and restaurants, so be it. You should also avoid friends who are spendthrifts, too. Fill your free time with a course of study. Learning new words to add to your vocabulary or studying a foreign language will distract you from the poverty consciousness that has set in.

You're angry because you've been given so much responsibility. It doesn't seem fair that you have to handle all the work while everyone else is enjoying themselves. Unfortunately, this is just part of paying your dues. If you keep your nose to the grindstone, you'll prove yourself worthy and move to the next level. Relieve the tension by setting aside a certain time each day for leisure. Take this opportunity to read, nap, play a game and refresh your spirit.

Resist the urge to challenge a newcomer's proposal. Although you're sceptical about their ideas, it's not helpful to shoot them down. There's a good chance this method will actually save time, money, and effort. Step aside and see what happens after agreeing to this experiment. Colleagues will be grateful for your open minded attitude, and the two of you could form a powerful alliance. Stranger things have happened.

Don't get tricked into doing more than your fair share. You're so conscientious that you automatically do jobs that have fallen by the wayside. This diligence is admirable, but it can take a toll on your health. Scale back your responsibilities, and don't feel guilty when work falls through the cracks. This is the only way your boss will realise more help is needed. Consider how much better you will feel when you have a little breathing room at the end of the day.

When you watch the news, the world seems incredibly bleak. You start wondering why you are working so hard. It's critical to your wellbeing to change this perspective. Seek out stories that reaffirm your faith in humankind. Volunteer at a charitable organisation that is making a positive difference. Surround yourself with optimists who tackle problems head on. Spending time with children can be especially uplifting, because of their lack of cynicism. Even playing a simple game together will make you feel better about the state of the world.

Playing the victim won't help you out of a bad situation. Be proactive about defeating your enemies. First and foremost, stop putting yourself in the path of opportunists. Learn to say 'no,' and don't back down when others try to get you to reverse your decision. Establishing firm personal boundaries is one of the most important life skills you will acquire. Pattern your behaviour after a beloved relative who doesn't suffer fools gladly.