Someone you admired or respected could behave in unspeakable ways. At times like these, it's difficult to have faith in anybody. Before giving in to cynicism, however, consider whether you might have put this person up on a pedestal. It's important to remember that human beings are prey to temptations. Nobody is immune to the lure of power, money, and sex. The real test of character comes from how we deal with these transgressions.

Paying your bills on time and studying your credit position are advised today. If you fall short of financial obligations, call your lenders and explain the situation. They're more likely to help you if you contact them at the first sign of trouble. In the event you're in debt to a friend, work out a way you can meet your obligation without damaging your relationship. Demonstrating good faith is half the battle.

A close business or romantic relationship is showing signs of strain. Family matters could be interfering with what could be a beneficial arrangement. At some point, you are going to have to choose sides. This seems incredibly unfair, but you'll have to do it in order to preserve your sanity. Whichever path you select, it's important that you are ready to accept its consequences. You'll see why all this trouble was necessary in a months time.

Stress is taking a toll on your body, which means it is time to slow down. Stop telling yourself that your career or home life will suffer if you don't continue this same level of work. The fact is, you can't put a price on your health. Colleagues and relatives must learn to assume more responsibilities while you get well. Cut back your schedule and spend more time on peaceful activities that lift your spirits.

It's difficult not to be resentful of children who don't seem to have a care in the world. Rather than taking out your resentment on them, focus on finding more time for fun activities. There's no reason why you should be saddled with work from dawn till dusk. Whether this means lowering your standards for housework, spending less time at the office, or delegating chores to other family members is up to you.

Everybody is depending on you for emotional support, but you fear you have nothing left to give. At times like these, you need to nurture yourself. Schedule a fun night out with friends who lift your spirits. Splurge on a massage or pedicure. Hire some household help to give you more time for enjoying yourself. Selfish types will continue to ignore your needs until you start treating yourself with courtesy and respect. Set an example.

Restless energy prevents you from focusing on emotional needs that need attention. Instead of cramming your schedule with meetings, appointments, and chores, spend the entire day attending to your emotions. Maybe you have an unresolved conflict with a neighbour or relative. Perhaps you have been putting off a dreaded phone call or e-mail. It's even possible you've been neglecting your creative talents. Stop procrastinating and get down to business.

A shopping spree could put you in financial jeopardy if you're not careful. You're so tired of denying yourself of luxuries that you're apt to go overboard to compensate for all the deprivation you experienced in the past. If you feel yourself seized with cravings, take charge of the situation. Allocate a small sum of money each week to spend on treats. That way, you can pamper yourself without going broke.

You're extremely moody right now, and it's really no surprise. It feels like all of your hard work hasn't paid off in the slightest. Your manager may be cold to your efforts, or you may not receive the recognition you deserve. Maybe the reason you're frustrated is that you're involved with work that doesn't speak to your heart. Make life easier by pursuing a path that has deep personal meaning. It's time to change course.

It's almost impossible to focus on work, maybe because you've been overindulging in food or drink. Consider why you went on this binge in the first place. Have you been receiving the love and tenderness you need to thrive? Too often, you ignore your desire for physical affection, pretending that you're above all such mushiness. Stop this charade and give in to your emotions. Otherwise, you'll continue to seek comfort in unhealthy ways.

Friends expect you to be there for them, but are always absent when you need a shoulder to cry on. This situation has got to stop, or your self-esteem will plummet. Start seeking out friends who know how to give as well as receive. In the past, your subconscious may have drawn you to people who were incredibly needy and demanding. By vowing to form more equal relationships, you'll stop feeling victimised.

A close relationship could suffer because you're so determined to uphold a false image. It's time to consider which is more important: maintaining your reputation or keeping this person's affection. Pretending to be something you're not will ultimately backfire on you, anyway. Listen to what your beloved has to say and drop all these pretences. You'll be astonished at how much better you feel when you let the real you come to the surface.