Failing to take a rival seriously will put you in a dangerous situation. You may not realise it, but your competitor has been quietly improving their skills while you rested on your laurels. You will have to work hard to surpass them. Don't surround yourself with people who tell you what you want to hear. Instead, join forces with a demanding coach who won't accept excuses. Trying to win their approval will put you back in the winner's circle.

Obsessing over a desired outcome will create disappointment. It's healthier to accept you may be disappointed. If things don't go your way, resist the temptation to quit and go home. You can make valuable contributions once you get over your dismay. A person with your intelligence can create a strategy whereby more people feel valued. You won't be delighted with the new regime, but it won't be as bad as you expect, either. Make the mature decision and respect the status quo.

Putting pressure on your best friend, romantic partner or workmate risks disaster. Nobody likes having their arm twisted. Make a logical case for what you want and then step into the shadows. There's a chance your friend will reject your proposal and go their own way. If this happens, you'll have to choose between your relationship and a desired career path. Chances are you will pursue your professional desires. The important thing is for each of you to be honest about what you want.

Having impossibly high standards will create resentment. Perfection is a luxury your group cannot afford. You're being asked to churn out as much work as possible in the shortest amount of time. Stopping to make adjustments will only stop others from fulfilling their quotas. Eventually, this ridiculous expectation will be changed. Until then, do what people say and work as quickly as possible. You'll have a chance to take over when the results of this policy are rejected.

Don't let your ego interfere with a close relationship. Instead of insisting on getting your own way, defer to your best friend or romantic partner. Make a financial sacrifice on their behalf. You may not realise it, but it's not easy being friends with you. Your magnetic personality always commands the spotlight. As a result, your loved ones are usually standing in your shadow. Stop being selfish and put their needs first. A generous gesture will be greatly appreciated.

Avoiding a confrontation will compound your problems. Summon your courage and face a rival. Make it clear you have no intention of compromising your principles. Although you want to be popular, it's more important to be ethical. Let everybody else take the easy path. You're determined to change an unfair rule, overhaul an outmoded system or empower some vulnerable people. If that means facing off with some tough competitors, so be it. You're stronger than you realise.

Constantly being in motion will cause burnout. Resist the temptation to start a new project before an existing one is complete. People will get nervous if they think you have too much on your plate. Take a few deep breaths, focus on what needs to be done and finish what you started. Once you're done, take a break. Go on a short trip. Getting a change of scenery will make you realise you cannot continue this frantic pace. Be still and cultivate contentment.

A stubborn resistance to change will work against you. It's important to face sobering realities. You simply cannot continue doing business the same way any longer. Unless you agree to update your skills and adjust your approach, you will be left in the cold. Don't expect an influential friend to bail you out of this mess. They are accountable for their decisions. If they are seen as giving you preferential treatment, your loved one will be dismissed. Be fair and open to change.

You hate being told what to do. Unfortunately, if you ignore this directive, you'll get in lots of trouble. It's important to show respect for your superiors, even when you disagree with them. Although you think there is a better way of doing things, your proposal has been rejected. Give in gracefully. Don't do a victory dance when you are vindicated. Handling disappointment in a mature way will bolster your reputation. Throwing a tantrum will drive opportunity from your door.

Waiting too long to make a move means you risk failure. Push yourself to make things happen. By entering a competition, you'll have to work hard to establish your worth. Don't be afraid to showcase a distinctive style. Trying to blend in with the crowd will result in a lacklustre performance. It's better to embrace your unique outlook and offer something different. Don't worry if things don't go according to plan. You gain something more valuable: The respect of your peers.

Deferring to an authority figure is no longer an option. Unless you take the helm of a troubled organisation, the entire operation will fall apart. You can't let this happen. There is lots of money to be made from this venture, but you'll have to give the group orders. Give assignments according to each person's ability. Don't base your decisions on personal preference. When everyone sees you are being fair, they'll pull together and render a perfect performance.

Pouring all your energy into career matters is a mistake. Although you want to be successful, your victory will be hollow without a rewarding intellectual life. Scale back your schedule and devote yourself to a serious course of study. Read about someone who has always inspired you. Make changes designed to leading a more meaningful existence. Having interests outside of your job will make you happier and healthier. It will also put you in contact with people who will bring out the best in you.