Having lots of influence can only get you so far. If people resent you, they will find ways to undermine your success. Instead of making yourself good by diminishing others, seek to cultivate good will wherever you go. Thank those who make your life easier in small ways. Buy pastries for the office cleaning crew or give your assistant a gift card. Write a note to a store manager, praising a clerk's performance. Instead of issuing any criticism, give everyone sincere compliments for an entire day.

Imposing your beliefs on others is a losing proposition. Nobody likes being told what to value. If you want to worship freely, do it with people who share your convictions. Concentrate on being a good example for others to follow. Anyone who admires your principles will ask you more about them. At that point, you can talk freely about your philosophy. When someone tries to convert you, tell them firmly and clearly you do not welcome these overtures.

Making ends meet has been difficult. As soon as you satisfy one bill, another arrives. Take this as a sign to climb the career ladder. Landing a better job will allow you to pay your debts. You'll also be able to improve your standard of living. Any work involving fashion, film and photography is strongly advised. You could also make a good living in charity work. Turn a deaf ear to critics who think you should find work in the financial industry. Trust your instincts instead.

You find a close relationship to be too confining. Instead of asking for more freedom, simply assume it. Take a solitary holiday, enjoy an outing with friends or buy yourself something special. The important thing is to stop asking permission to do what you want. At first, your other half will be shocked by behaviour. They'll accuse you of being selfish and inconsiderate. Instead of getting defensive, continue to meet your own needs. Eventually, your loved one will accept the new you.

Analysing a relationship to death is a mistake. Instead of questioning everything a friend does, take their behaviour at face value. If you don't like the way you're being treated, say so. Cite specific examples when you were hurt, describe how these actions made you feel and propose an alternative. There's no need to go into a song and dance. Once your other half realises how they've been affecting you, they'll try hard to improve. Praise their attempts at being more positive and helpful.

Stop making every romantic interaction about you. Be willing to satisfy your partner's needs, even if they're shy about articulating them. The next time you go out, insist they pick the movie or restaurant. Resist the temptation to complain if they choose something you don't enjoy. When it comes to intimacy, invite your amour to demonstrate what they want. Don't be mocking or judgemental. When you demonstrate a real desire to be a good partner, your relationship will flourish.

The best way to cultivate strong family ties is to spend quality time together. If that means spending fewer hours at work and curtailing personal ambition, so be it. When you take time out of your busy schedule for loved ones, they'll let their defences down. Instead of being subjected to sullen silences, you'll engage in heartfelt conversation. Best of all, you won't have to prod your nearest and dearest to be more respectful. They'll treat you with courtesy because you inspire it.

When it comes to communication, your tone is as important as the information you share. If people take offense at you, it's because you're not being respectful. Although it isn't necessary to put on a false front, you should practice being polite. Pattern your behaviour after someone who always makes you feel good. The simple act of greeting someone with a smile or remembering a service worker's name can make a big difference. Never forget the magic words 'please,' 'thank you' and 'you're welcome.'

If you want abundance, you must share your blessings with others. That may seem ridiculous when it feels you have so little. Part of the problem is you are focusing on what you lack, rather than what you possess. Change this attitude by making a daily gratitude list. When you focus on your luck, it will quickly multiply. Suddenly, you'll have all the money, resources and emotional support you desire. Use these benefits to assist those in need.

Imposing your will on others will cause a revolt. Although you are the most powerful person in the group, that won't last long if you act like a tyrant. Instead of getting angry at everyone's uncooperative behaviour, call a meeting. Invite everyone to speak freely about what they want and need. Promise there won't be any repercussions for harsh criticism. If you treat people with care and compassion, they'll work hard to satisfy your demands. The key is setting goals that benefit everyone, not just you.

It's important to attend to material concerns. Although you're not materialistic, you must admit money comes in handy from time to time. If you need a better job, it will take time to find one. Be patient and discerning. Accepting the first offer that comes along will lead to disappointment. You're both organised and imaginative. A company seeking a person who can work independently will be happy to bring you on board. Begin your search and hold out for the perfect opportunity.

When technical breakdowns occur, don't panic. It's a sign you should step away from your phone, computer or tablet. Doing things the old-fashioned way may be time consuming, but it can also be restful. It isn't healthy to have your eyes glued to a screen all day. If a piece of equipment is irretrievably broken, think about not replacing it. You may be delighted to discover that life is much more pleasant when you're not subjected to beeping and ringing all day.