You're an affectionate and loving person towards your friends. People who are outside your social circle are a different story. You've always been highly competitive, so you treat strangers as potential rivals. Once you've assessed an individual's strengths and weaknesses, you'll decide to let down your defences or keep them up. Don't be averse to forming a relationship with someone who can give you a run for your money. You could learn a great deal from such a union.

You are considered to be one of the most reliable people at work. That's why so many people turn to you for help. Most of the time, you find their faith gratifying. Occasionally, you are annoyed to be the one expected to fix every small problem. When you experience a push pull dynamic like this, it's time to get clear about your boundaries. Think about what your ideal role would be. If you can conceive it, you can achieve it.

You like keeping in contact with your nearest and dearest, usually by telephone, text or email. When it comes to meeting people face to face, it's more challenging. You're always on the move. This makes it difficult to take time out of your busy schedule to sit down and talk at length. As a result, certain people feel snubbed. Although you can't possibly have lunch with everybody, you can set aside an hour or two for your best friend, child or romantic partner.

Encourage your friends to develop interests and relationships outside of your bond. You can be a little possessive of your loved ones, fearing they will be hurt by outsiders. Unless they are free to befriend the people they like, they will be resentful of your interference. Think back to when you were younger and had a friend your parents disliked. Wasn't it upsetting? By adopting a more generous attitude towards your inner circle, your relationships will become more rich and profound. Try it and see.

You're extremely loyal and supportive to your family. When they're happy, you feel like anything is possible. If any of your relatives experience trouble, you'll move mountains to help. At times, you go above and beyond the call of duty. This is draining, both emotionally and financially. The next time someone asks for assistance, take some deep breaths. Carefully review what you're capable of doing on their behalf. Don't jeopardise your own security by emptying your bank account.

Accept a friend's invitation to lunch or dinner. Taking a break from your routine will be therapeutic. You've always been incredibly responsible. At times, your diligence has kept you from being good to yourself. Stop depriving yourself of fun. Make more time for leisure, even if it means cutting back your work schedule. Your loved ones want the best for you. By spending more time with them, you'll gain a healthier perspective on life. Carrying out regular responsibilities will cease to be your primary role.

It can be difficult for you to talk about serious subjects with loved ones. You're afraid of saying something insensitive to anyone who is struggling with an illness or coping with grief. Instead of insisting on keeping things light, invite your friend to do the talking. Being an attentive listener is more important than offering advice. When in doubt, ask questions like 'how can I help?' or 'is there anything I can do to make life easier for you?'

It's difficult for you to forgive transgressions. A stalled relationship cannot move forward until you let a loved one off the hook. There's no reason to subject somebody to guilt trips for making a careless mistake. In cases where someone cannot be trusted, it's better to break things off. There's no reason to make yourself vulnerable to a person who lies, cheats or steals. A few people will accuse you of being unduly harsh, but you know your own limits.

Keeping in touch with people can be difficult. You enjoy exploring unfamiliar territory. As a result, you have friends from virtually all over the globe. Sometimes the only way to maintain contact is through social media. Unfortunately, this kind of communication can feel superficial. If you feel like you have a thousand casual acquaintances but no close friends, make some changes. Get into the habit of talking to your favourite person at least once a week.

Someone who is taking an unconventional path should not be mocked. You've always had great respect for tradition. Other people have different needs. You may not understand them, but that's not necessary. The important thing is to express faith in your friends' judgment. Wishing them the best and asking questions about their plans will keep your relationship on track. Maintaining close ties with people who have offbeat sensibilities will make you more interesting and compassionate.

You're not the most demonstrative person in the world, but that doesn't mean you are unfeeling. On the contrary, you care deeply for your friends and family. Most people accept your quirky ways, which is a relief. Instead of taking their acceptance for granted, try being a little more affectionate. Get into the habit of thanking them for kind gestures, praising their abilities and complimenting their achievements. The best relationships require each participant to take emotional risks. Do something uncomfortable as a means to show your loyalty.

Stop worrying if people really like you or not. Worthy friends will demonstrate their love and support, whether you're feeling great or experiencing trouble. Opportunists will reveal themselves as soon as things get challenging. In the end, you will be glad to learn the truth. You're a very kind hearted person who is sensitive to other people's opinions. Before you bend over backwards to win someone's approval, think about whether they are worthy of your esteem.