Some strange ideas are discussed today; remember these as they could come in useful later in the week. Putting new methods to the test can be surprisingly revealing. A person you always thought of as dull could come up with the most ingenious suggestions. Be discreet about what you are doing as if the wrong person gets to know about it they'll put obstructions in your way.

Someone has need of an item you don't use any more; they may make you an offer to take it off your hands. There is cash to be made from selling unwanted bits and pieces about the house. Your emotions could get the better of you in a tense situation. There's a strong temptation to blurt out exactly how you're feeling but if you do, a small difference of opinion could get out of hand!

If you're trying to develop a skill or increase your knowledge it may seem as if the important points aren't sinking in. Persevere! After repeatedly trying, you will get it right. An authority figure's insensitive behaviour could give your confidence a knock. Stick to your guns if you believe you can do something when everyone else tells you, you can't. Don't let a dog in the manger attitude put you off!

It will be people in the background who give you most help and support today. Someone you had been relying on may be too busy with their own concerns. A friend or colleague is taking on extra commitments for the good of others, so they say. You will soon realise they're doing it for themselves and the acclaim and approval from authority figures they're expecting to get out of it.

Be ready for someone to approach you as your help is needed in a team effort which is going awry. Keep up to date with what's going on in a group you're involved in and you will be better prepared when the time comes to help them out! External interests could be a sore point in a close relationship. A loved one is starting to feel you've got your priorities all wrong.

A new job or work assignment could give you the chance to widen your horizons. If you have felt in need of more challenge or satisfaction in your career, this is your chance to fulfil this desire. Life is too precious to turn good opportunities away because you're stuck in a comfortable rut. Don't rest on your laurels; take the plunge and you might even discover a new and unknown side of your personality!

You need a break so why don't you arrange a short trip to a place you always like to visit? Being in the countryside or beside the sea could give you the inspiration to start on an art or writing project. A talented friend may encourage you to develop your skills; they may even offer to tutor you. Their support could help you overcome the psychological hurdle that has been holding you back.

Someone who is a stickler for rules and regulations could try your patience. Superiors aren't likely to be in a very understanding mood. You might notice a costly error needs rectifying and it will be up to you to take the initiative. Anything that causes you concern should be given your immediate attention. Don't expect others to help as they won't. In some matters you are on your own. Keep at it and you should be able to get what you want.

There is an emotional problem you aren't facing up to and a joint issue needs to be addressed. A heart to heart is necessary and a loved one will be more responsive to your thoughts and feelings than you were expecting. You might discover people aren't against you because they happen to disagree with you. If something is important to you, you will get the support you need to go ahead.

Heavy responsibilities are starting to take their toll; you need to think seriously about your health. Life does not have to be all work and no play. You may need to relax and chill out for a few days. No need to panic but you can't push yourself to your limits all of the time. If you have been ill, get yourself back in shape before resuming regular duties.

Your mind is tuned into the needs and feelings of those spending the day with you. Progress is likely to be in fits and starts because you have to keep pausing to give people attention. You might get wind that someone is nervous or worried about something. You can do a lot to set their mind at rest. To advance a professional cause you may be called on to do some public speaking.

Discussions include ways to give your home a facelift; look through magazines for ideas. Some form of change is taking place within the family although this may not be immediately apparent. Over the weeks ahead, old routines will be altered as new activities, interests and people step into your life. You might not fancy some proposals but don't worry: you will get the chance to get used to new ideas.