Horoscope: January 24, 2014

Aries March 20 – April 19

The current planetary emphasis on close friends, colleagues and even neighbours calls your attention to those in your environment. Although you may see them regularly and sometimes chat, you’re by no means up to date on their activities. It’s worth talking in greater depth. What you learn could be of considerable significance.

Taurus April 20 – May 20

The last thing you’re in the mood to do is rethink plans you’ve already spent a great deal of time discussing. But judging by the New Moon, late next week, which accents these, a shift in circumstances or in your own perspective will make it clear changes aren’t just a good idea, they’re essential.

Gemini May 21 – June 20

It’s rare that you’re shy about saying what’s on your mind. Yet you’re sidestepping several topics, mostly because past experience has shown they’ll only cause upset. Still, these need to be dealt with, and soon. Others know the situation is increasingly urgent and, although they won’t reveal it, will be grateful you raised these issues.

Cancer June 21 – July 21

A gentle touch can be both timely and wise. You’ve an instinctive understanding of this and, better yet, have been able to influence others. Yet now, in one particular situation, not only must you adopt a different strategy, you must be tough. Any less and the individual in question won’t take you seriously.

Leo July 22 – August 22

You’ve no fear of standing up to those with whom you have differences. But those who simply refuse to accept your views are quite another matter. Back up your thinking with unarguable facts or, perhaps, obtain the support of somebody whose authority can’t be questioned. Whatever you do, it will be worth the effort.

Virgo August 23 – September 22

Although you don’t try to be intimidating, those who know you well will always ensure their facts are correct before they question your decisions. While you’re rarely wrong, not only could recent confusing situations have led to errors, they involve matters personal to you. Double check your facts now, before it’s too late.

Libra September 23 – October 22

Having talked through a range of complex issues only recently, you’d think others would continue to be receptive. Yet sudden developments haven’t just been distracting, they’ve put certain individuals on edge. Allow them to deal with these rather challenging situations first. Only once they’re put to rest should you raise your concerns.

Scorpio October 23 – November 21

Are you facing intense doubts or anxieties, yet unsure what’s behind them? These feelings are your reaction to changes you’re battling, developments you sense are coming but still refuse even to discuss. Yet, judging by Jupiter’s clash with your ruler Pluto, on the 31st, you’ve no choice but to go along with them.

Sagittarius November 22 – December 20

By no means are you rigid in your views or thinking. Still, every once in a while circumstances force you to acknowledge that your attitude towards something, or even somebody, has become surprisingly rigid. Pay close attention to events that force you to question such matters. You’ll be surprised what you discover.

Capricorn December 21 – January 19

Often, minor disputes can be resolved in a simple and uncomplicated exchange of ideas. However, judging by Mercury’s upcoming clash with your ruler Saturn, certain issues will require thorough analysis and a firm but tactful explanation of your views. Prepare now and the resulting discussions will be far easier than you imagine possible.

Aquarius January 20 – February 17

Obviously, obstacles are never welcome. Yet those you’re encountering aren’t exactly a surprise. What’s more, they’ll help explain certain worryingly persistent difficulties. Knowing that, rather than deal with these as swiftly as possible, go into them in depth. This should enable you to put those matters to rest once and for all.

Pisces February 18 – March 19

There are those who simply leave tasks for others to do; this is something you face often. Then there’s leaving tasks undone because they actually are the responsibility of others. The real problem is those individuals are hoping if they ignore those tasks, you’ll deal with them. There’s only one response. Do, and say, nothing.

If it’s your birthday

Every once in a while a conversation takes place that isn’t just interesting, it changes everything. It alters your view of circumstances and perhaps even deepens certain relationships, whatever their nature. Judging by the potent alliance between the communicative Mercury and forthright Mars in your birthday chart, even simple exchanges could do exactly this. And more serious discussions could be even more powerful. Don’t hold back. The more open you are, the more you’ll benefit.