ARIES (March 21-April 19): Relationships may have their ups and downs. Be as polite and considerate as possible since there is the possibility of misunderstandings during the next few days. Focus on physical activities to avoid a clash.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Be direct and concise. You will get further if you don’t tiptoe around an issue or try to hide a problem. Any misunderstandings that occur now could be caused by pretending to be something you aren’t.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Keep the sharpest scissors handy. There may be loose ends to snip before the day is done, but you are the person with the equipment and skills to do it. Someone’s hopeful optimism may be misplaced or inaccurate.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Things might not go just as you planned. Relationships could be sidetracked by complicated issues. Avoid a misunderstanding or making new agreements since unrealistic expectations on both sides create an impasse.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): The world can be a better place if there is more encouragement passed around. Concentrate on offering other people compliments rather than expecting the world to revolve around your needs and desires.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Follow the Boy Scout creed; help an old lady cross the street or perform some other good deed. There might be some people who will criticize anyone for anything, but you know how to do everything properly.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your boomerang won’t come back. You can lose something of value if you make crucial changes. The way you handle commitments and obligations may be held up to scrutiny. Do not impulsively break off a relationship.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): When life offers sour lemons add sugar to make lemonade. Squeeze out all the creative juices and make something worthwhile. A new interest or a fascinating idea might inspire you to study or develop new skills.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep your pennies in your pocket. This is not a good time to make major purchases especially if they require financing or scheduled payments. Your good taste is hampered by a passing desire for extravagance.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Stick to the straight and narrow. Be as honest as the day is long and as true blue as the summer sky. Put social affairs on the back burner and steer clear of any bones of contention that could trip you up.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Kill two birds with one stone. Invite a new contact or coworker on a shopping expedition or errand so you have a chance to get to know that person better while productively sharing a necessary task.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Ask someone for an opinion or other options. Mingle with people from different walks of life and broaden your perspective. You may receive an offer or opportunity that upgrades your standing at the workplace.

IF AUGUST 7 IS YOUR BIRTHDAY: You may enjoy sports and competitions during the upcoming three to four weeks. In September and early October your business instincts are excellent, and the lights are green if you have investments in mind.