Beware of spoiling a youngster. Although you want to be a good provider for a child, it's also important to teach them good values. Having them work for treats and privileges will set them on a good path. If you're dealing with a youngster who is old enough to get a job, encourage them to find employment as soon as possible. Working for a paycheque will build their pride and self esteem and it will give you a chance to teach or even learn some valuable lessons about how to manage money.

You don't know as much as you think. Let a young colleague show you how to operate a software program or technical gadget. Nobody will look down on you for needing help. In fact, they'll admire your willingness to acquire new skills. Too often, seasoned professionals are oversensitive about their appearance. They worry that if they admit their ignorance they'll lose face. Actually, it's a refreshing quality. After all, it's impossible to have expert knowledge of every subject.

You've been spending a lot of money lately, which is making you worried. If you're up late at night wondering how to pay the bills, make some changes. Cut out impulse purchases and put yourself on a strict budget. It will take time to pare down your debt, but the temporary sacrifice will be worth it. It may be necessary to cancel a trip. Try not to dwell on your disappointment. You can have plenty of fun staying close to home.

Don't overestimate your importance on the home front. Everybody deserves to be treated with respect, including the oldest and youngest. Demanding that everyone stop and change things to suit you will cause resentment. Defer to the other members of your household. If you live by yourself, the arrangement will feel alienating. Think about getting a roommate or at least a pet. You'll benefit from the companionship. This isn't a good time to buy or sell a piece of property. Wait for a better market.

Resist the urge to dramatise a small ache or pain. You're perfectly capable of fulfilling your responsibilities, even if you are suffering from mild discomfort. What you really want is some tender loving care. Unfortunately, it isn't forthcoming. Friends and family are too busy with their own work to come to your aid. When this happens, you should treat yourself gently. Give yourself a reward after meeting your obligations. Some delicious takeaway food will be very comforting.

Neither a lender nor a borrower be. You don't want to ruin a perfectly good friendship over a financial obligation. If someone asks for a loan, say no. This can be difficult, because you're always looking for ways to be of service to others. Your first priority should be to protect your own interests. If you need money, find another source of income. You might have to take a boring position just to make ends meet, but there are worse fates.

An embarrassing mistake has to be rectified. The best way to make amends is by issuing a sincere apology without any excuses. Don't talk about extenuating circumstances and last minute emergencies; just say you are sorry. Then bolster your words with actions. It will take time and effort to regain the public's confidence. Try not to be discouraged if people seem sceptical of your promises. They'll change their tune when they realise you've turned over a new leaf.

Don't give anyone the power to make decisions for you. Just because you admire a spiritual or educational leader doesn't mean you should follow their directives to the letter. It's better to retain your independence, even if it means incurring their displeasure from time to time. People are worried you are becoming too reliant on this authority figure. Their concerns may be valid. Start pursuing a hobby you abandoned some time ago. This will give you great pleasure.

Arguments over joint finances will erupt. You have to keep your cool. It may be better to ask a legal professional to handle the matter. That way, you can avoid getting embroiled in a nasty war of words with the other party. If you're in an intimate relationship, take pains to guard your partner's privacy. Even making silly jokes at their expense can be hurtful. It's also important to remain silent when a relative asks nosy questions about this relationship.

Show your appreciation for your best friend, lover or business partner. Just because you're busy doesn't mean you can be neglectful. The demands of work are consuming all of your attention. While you're at the office, your friend is working hard to make life easier for you. Their generosity has made you more comfortable. Express your gratitude by arranging a fun evening out for just the two of you. Choose a destination that will appeal to your comrade, even if you don't particularly like it.

It's important to fulfil all of your responsibilities before leaving work. Don't ask a colleague to finish a project or you'll be sorely disappointed. The last thing you need is to be reprimanded by your boss. You may not like your job, but it is providing you with a steady source of income. You can always find another one. Resist the urge to quit until you land a better position. It's easier to find work when you have it.

A big financial loss could occur if you're not careful with your money. This isn't a good time to take a gamble. Even a seemingly sound investment could turn into a money pit. It's better to keep your hard earned cash in the bank, where it can accumulate interest. If you're deep in debt, it will be difficult to reverse the situation until you put yourself on a budget. Getting control of your spending will boost your confidence and ease your anxieties.