You may be overly optimistic with regard to what a friend can do for you. Don't be disappointed if this person fails to deliver on a promise. The fact is, such grandiose claims are beyond the reach of their powers. Instead of giving up on your dream entirely, break it down into a series of manageable stages. Take the first step yourself and see what happens. You're the only one you can rely on now.

Try not to expect too much with regard to some changes at work. Although you believe you're the perfect person to fill a vacancy, the powers-that-be may think otherwise. Resist the urge to fly into a rage if things don't go your way. You'll be much better served by formulating a careful plan of action. Polish your resume and schedule job interviews as a means to withstand disappointment. Reclaim control over your life.

Contrary to what you might think, you don't have the necessary experience to handle a big job. Therefore, you need to give way to a more seasoned person who can help you enhance your performance. Your first impulse may be to feel resentful toward this expert. By opening your heart to what this character has to teach you, however, you'll gain a new friend as well as a valuable mentor.

Before you rush into an expensive purchase, review your financial situation carefully. You may be better off paying off outstanding bills than adding more things to your credit card. Interest has a way of adding up to the point that you're actually paying three times the price of what an item initially cost. Can you really afford to undermine your future security by being forever indebted to credit agencies?

Your idealism is admirable, but it may not be enough to convert a loved one. If a friend, business partner, or lover seems to be resisting your way of thinking, don't push. Otherwise, serious arguments could ensue. Think about it: you dislike it when somebody discounts your belief system. Why should other people be any different? The best way to promote a philosophy is to practice it. Your success will speak for itself.

Escapist tendencies won't make your problems disappear; in fact they'll complicate your troubles. Stop retreating to a fantasy world and start devising ways you can improve your daily life. Eating more nutritious meals, setting realistic goals for yourself, and clearing out clutter are key elements to your self-improvement program. Consult a health professional about any persistent aches or pains that may be plaguing you.

Your social life could prevent you from fulfilling your creative potential. While it's fun to hang out with friends, you could be using your time more productively. Sign up for a class in your favourite artistic medium. This will help you pull back from frivolous pursuits and focus on the work you need to be doing. A pal may not understand your ambition, but that is fine. You probably don't comprehend their goals, either!

Arrogance could get in the way of receiving the rewards you deserve. Authority figures may feel uncomfortable in your presence because you remind them of how much stronger you are in certain areas. By adopting a more humble approach, you could get back into their good graces. This may be difficult, because you hate playing these kinds of games. Consider, though, how hard you've worked to get to this point.

Although you possess lots of knowledge, you may not be able to apply it in a practical manner. If you need an official certificate to make use of your talent, enrol in a school or take a test. Sometimes pride prevents amateurs from becoming professionals. Don't make this same mistake. You may have to study to brush up on any areas that have become rusty. Ask a friend to help you prepare.

If you're having trouble paying your bills, consult a debt consolidation organisation. Until you take this important step, you could be living under a cloud of fear. There's no reason to be ashamed if you've let your spending get out of control. It's easy to do so in this age of pre-approved credit. The important thing is to take responsibility for your mistake. Once you do, life will seem less chaotic and more manageable.

Overlooking a partner's shortcomings could be weakening your relationship. Although you want the best for this person, that may involve giving an honest assessment of their weaknesses. How can loved ones improve if you keep pretending their lacklustre performance is acceptable? Of course, you don't have to render your opinion in a harsh manner. Model your comments after good pieces of constructive criticism you've received in the past.

Assuming other people's responsibilities won't endear you to your colleagues. In fact, this will make you seem like a pushover. Refuse to cover for a consistently irresponsible person, no matter what the consequences might be. By standing up for yourself, you will ward off any bullies who seek to lighten their own loads by making life more difficult for others. Don't let a desire for popularity undermine your dignity.