Mixing business with pleasure helps take the pressure off you; treat yourself. A friend may consult you about the best way to proceed with a troubled pal. You should be flattered that others think so highly of your opinion. Don't hesitate to recommend professional help if you feel it's necessary.

Despite what others think, you have a right to privacy; do whatever you can to protect it. If this means changing the locks on your door, so be it. Trust your instincts when sizing up a shady newcomer to your vicinity. You may be the only one who escapes their manipulative behaviour. Watch your back!

You know a good opportunity when you see one, so don't listen to dire predictions. This could be your chance to go into business for yourself. Even a small venture will turn a sizeable profit with the right approach. Take a class in computer skills so you can save time and money. Remember, if you don't look after yourself, no one else will.

You're more ambitious than folks realise, but that works to your advantage. Apply for a promotion or new job in secret. This will give you a chance to size up the competition. A sad soul may make an unreasonable request. Don't feel like you have to give an explanation for refusing. In this instance, they have brought about problems on themselves.

Having free rein with a creative project gives you a new meaning for existing; be sure to pace yourself so you don't burn out. This could be a launching pad for a whole new career for you. Stop telling yourself that it's too late to realise a personal vision. The fact is, you've just embarked on a brand new and exciting phase of life.

Don't dwell on your shortcomings, start focusing on your strengths. Even a person born with a silver spoon in their mouth has limitations: probably more so. Your task as a human being is to play the hand you've been dealt to the best of your ability. You'll soon see once you make a list of everything that's in your favour.

Someone may ask you to explain yourself, which causes you to feel angry and resentful. Instead of getting defensive, comply with their request. That way, nobody can accuse you of being obstreperous. You'll have a chance to prove your worth later down the line. In the meantime, though, you must get your foot in the door.

Developing your artistic skills is the fastest way to increase your bank balance. That's because your creative muscle get stronger when you paint, write, or dance. It makes it easier to solve a whole variety of problems. Stop telling yourself that you have no imagination. It's simply not true besides the more you do, the more you inhibit your progress.

Try not to be too smug when courting the favours of someone cute: you must work hard to gain this person's respect. Acting otherwise could be interpreted as contempt. The reason you act so cocky is that you basically feel insecure. You'll get much farther in close intimate affairs by admitting this to yourself.

Resting on your laurels can seriously compromise your chances for success. Push yourself a little further than usual, especially if an boss figure is looking over your shoulder. It may feel as though you're being spied on. The only way you'll shake that pervasive feeling is by proving that you don't need supervision, you are your own judge and jury.

Getting everything you want from life is possible, but don't expect to get it all at once. Create a long term plan for yourself, and factor in the people you love. Children or a pet need your time and attention more than expensive gifts. If that means cutting back your work schedule, so be it. You'll look back on this decision with pride.

Playing by the rules is important, but you must learn the value of being versatile, too. A set of instructions can't possibly cover every situation. If you feel there's a better way of doing things, follow your instincts. You could be rewarded for your quick thinking. There's much to be said for common sense.