The best way to exercise your personal power is to become an undisputed expert on your favourite subject. That doesn't necessarily mean you have to delve more deeply into your current job, unless it's something you really enjoy. There's no reason you can't go to college and study something that sets your imagination ablaze. Don't bother justifying your studies to sceptics who want to know how your schooling will pay off. You're not doing this for money; you're doing it for love.

An intense sexual affair could erupt in jealousy today. You need to know the object of your affection is yours and yours alone. If you're romantic partner is intent on playing the field, you may decide to break things off and while it pains you to make such a move, your instinct will tell you that you've made the right decision. If you're single, you need to find somebody who shares your passion for the arts.

You may have to issue an ultimatum if a partner is going to break a bad habit. Your live and let live attitude has undermined your relationship, and the time has come to set boundaries. Although the concept of unconditional love is a nice one, it shouldn't allow for abusive behaviour. Single? Try not to overpower potential love interests with sparkling conversation. Make a vow to listen as much as you speak. Your prospects will improve considerably.

You're determined to overhaul your body, which will involve several dramatic lifestyle changes. Instead of beating yourself up each time you fall short of your goal, offer yourself tempting incentives to keep working. For instance, you can buy yourself a new article of clothing every time you lose five pounds. Alternatively, treat yourself to a spa visit every time you surpass a personal best. Positive reinforcement is the key to your success.

Death defying stunts have a peculiar appeal to you. Maybe it's because you're tired of playing it safe. You were born with an adventurous streak that cannot be quelled. Fortunately, you don't have to put yourself in the path of danger to get the exhilaration you seek. Embarking on bold creative projects can provide a similar high. What's stopping you from auditioning for a play, submitting an article to a publisher, or playing music to an audience?

You're ready to come to terms with a painful issue from your past, if only to move towards a happier future. For while it was unfortunate people took advantage of you when you were weak, that doesn't give you license to stay emotionally paralysed. Get whatever help you need to enjoy mature relationships, recover your sense of dignity, or break a destructive habit. By taking control of your destiny now, you could forge a blissful New Year.

People have always attributed your popularity to your agreeable nature. The only problem is, you don't want to be agreeable all the time. Are you willing to sacrifice a few friends for leading a more authentic lifestyle? By being more forthcoming about your wants and needs, you'll feel as though a weight has been lifted from your heart. Granted, some egotists will break ranks with you, yearning for the days when you would automatically fall in with their plans.

Finding a way to capitalise on old, unwanted items could put a nice sum of money into your pocket. Selling your books and CDs on the Internet or at a car boot sale is one possibility. If you have an overstuffed wardrobe, you may want to take your unwanted clothes along too. It's probably a good idea to put your earnings into a holiday fund or directly towards a luxury item you've always wanted.

In the past, your self image may have been dictated by your job or possessions. If you want to break free of this limited thinking, make a list of fifty things that give you pleasure. There's a good chance most items on your list require very little money, yet you probably don't enjoy them as much as you should. Make a vow to build your identity around the people and things that give you joy. That constant craving will give way to contentment.

Developing your intuitive abilities is a good way to spend your energies. You've always been a wonderfully practical person, but dealing in the material world can be somewhat limiting. By learning to tune out externals and consult your heart, you will begin to make decisions in keeping with your innermost desires. Sure, it may not be the most sensible thing in the world to take up painting when you're busy with work and family duties, but it will be liberating.

Friendships with influential people can put you in touch with a dream deferred. Stop telling yourself it's too late to pursue an interest in science, art, or humanitarian work. You can satisfy such passions in a variety of ways, whether it's reading a book, or volunteering for a charity. Seemingly small steps will lead to big leaps. Ask your loved ones for help along the way. They'll be more than happy to accompany you in their journey.

Your ambition to succeed in your desired industry could prompt you to take some unusual steps. Usually, you're quite shy about advertising your talents. Right now you're willing to do anything and everything to get your dream job. Whether this means quitting a secure position to start at the bottom of a different field or jockeying for a promotion is immaterial. The important thing is for you to showcase your work in the most effective way possible.