ARIES (March 21-April 19): Petty squabbles and disputes can drain both time and energy. Someone else may seem to hold the reins but this is only an illusion because reins are easily broken. Focus on achieving your goals in creative ways.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Don’t go to pieces. It isn’t the end of the world if you are not in complete accord with another person. Provide stability for your family and make a good impression on the boss by faithfully fulfilling your obligations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Rather than upsetting the peace or disturbing the harmony you may choose to answer questions in obscure or evasive ways. Avoid making major purchases or firm agreements if facts and conditions are unclear.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Every relationship has some ups and downs. If you sense that things are heading downhill it is probably time to put on the brakes and go more slowly. You will find it difficult to explain your hesitation or doubts.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Examine your motives before you put things in motion. Your ambition may be on the rise and you could see an opportunity to take advantage of a situation. Trying to get the better of someone is likely to backfire.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A passing fancy or fleeting desire is not worth pursuing. Avoid signing financial documents or making promises that could cost more than anticipated. Be on the alert for clerical errors that can cause confusion.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Don’t get sent to your room without supper. An infraction of the rules or an impulsive outburst can put you in the doghouse. You and a loved one could wrestle for supremacy over a matter of ethics or morals.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Be an anchor or a rock. Someone might stir up controversy or chomp at the bit, eager to start new endeavors, but you will be wise to act as a calming influence. Take your time about making final decisions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Do the best you can do. If a minor snafu occurs don’t feel guilty or accept the blame too readily. It might be your responsibility to put things back in order, but a sudden breakdown isn’t necessarily your fault.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Perfection is almost impossible to find, but some people won’t rest until they find it. You may be bombarded on all sides by people who want an exception to the rules or make up the rules as they go along.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Weighty questions require enlightening advice. A cheerful disposition and a gentle nature will offset the intensity of your companions. Use your friendliness to diffuse a tense situation and win the respect of the boss.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Seek a haven where peace and tranquility are king. Go to an art show or museum and view the works of long gone artists. There you can appreciate beauty and speak your mind without the fear of giving offense.

IF AUGUST 9 IS YOUR BIRTHDAY: Pass up something too good to be true that attracts you during the next two to three weeks. You can rest on your laurels and enjoy some summer sunshine, but you may be too optimistic or overconfident.