Capricorn (December 23-January 20): There is a Chinese proverb that says, “It’s as difficult to be rich without bragging as it is to be poor without complaining.” While bragging and complaining are equally unattractive, money means possibility, choices and freedom so don’t feel guilty for wanting an ample supply. Guilt (for any reason) saps your energy like a crack in your Limoges tea cup drains your ginseng peppermint. Treat yourself to a classic red mani-pedi (Revlon’s Frankly Scarlet, for instance, or MAC’s Asiatique) so you’ll look glam in Cupid’s honor. Be extra generous on the 12th.
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Aquarius (January 21-February 19): There is a project that calls for your expertise and you are well placed to provide direction. Lovely! But do not get roped into executing the nitty-gritty tactics, just because someone asks you nicely. On the social front, keep in mind the old saying: If you can’t be good, don’t get caught. And when was the last time you were good, 1997?. You may need Excel to track your suitors in the leadup to Valentine’s. If you’re in an exclusive relationship, a long romantic weekend may be in the cards. Pay special attention to details on the weekend of the 18th.
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Pisces (February 20-March 20): This month is all about maintaining momentum. If you’re launching a business or looking for a new job, for example, try not to get too hung up with one client, revenue source or employer. Do your bitchiest best, then move onto the next item on your list. More than ever before, just go with the flow. If you’ve just begun dating someone, you needn’t be available 24/7 but do make time to hang out. It’s surprising how both sides can lose interest if too many days go by without reconnecting. In a relationship? Take the lead this Valentine’s Day and make it a Monday to remember.
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Aries (March 21-April 20): “Because women are so often blamed for all the gossip, it takes a little time and experience to realize how much men gossip. But they do. Not only among themselves, but with their wives, their sisters, and their friends,” says Vogue’s Book of Etiquette, 1948. How true this is! This month, discretion and tact are key, especially when it comes to your love life. On the 14th, mix it up with your Man Du Jour. At work, you may experience a period of unparalleled productivity. Make sure you take credit where due. Your love of dressing up brings an unexpected benefit the weekend of the 26th.
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Taurus (April 21-May 21): Eleanor Roosevelt said: “Friendship with one’s self is all important, because without it one cannot be friends with anyone else in the world.” This month, you may need to come up with a fun surprise thank you for a friend or relative who recently did you a favor. Around the 23rd, don’t fret if you don’t cross every item off your to-do list. Tomorrow is another day. Make a point of eating chocolate frequently! And in honor of Cupid, love your body; others will as well.
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Gemini (May 22-June 21): So often, Gemini pursues success in competitive fields. And the problem is? Marilyn Monroe, one of the world’s most famous Geminis, put it this way: “I used to think as I looked at the Hollywood night, there must be thousands of girls sitting alone like me, dreaming of becoming a movie star. But I’m not going to worry about them. I’m dreaming the hardest.” Good advice from a brainy blonde. Worrying and comparing yourself to others never did a bombshell any good. On Valentine’s Day, there’s no need to be shy; plan something sinfully delicious. A little champagne and sushi with your gal pals, perhaps?
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Cancer (June 22-July 23): You will find opportunities aplenty this month, though some of them may take a little extra effort to uncover. Having trouble finding a good guy? Accept that you will probably have to go out of your comfort zone – have breakfast by yourself and don’t bury your nose in a newspaper. Join a running club, check out a yoga studio or look into taking a class. Have a good guy? Let him know how special he is – maybe a series of notes on the bathroom mirror? Around the 21st you may have a diva moment. Enjoy!
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Leo (July 24-August 23): At work, look at your personality as a boss: is she someone staffers respect and admire or is she more full-on Joan Crawford? A tad demanding is fine, but consider what it’s like in the shoes of someone lower down the totem pole. And be sure to give praise when it is deserved. Work for yourself? Be extra gentle this month. You may get a nice surprise in the form of good publicity. For the perfect Valentine’s gift, try making your own – it’s hard to beat freshly baked cookies or a sonnet from the heart. Looking for the perfect Valentine? Be open to possibility and remember all it takes is one.
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Virgo (August 24-September 23): Usually you are exceedingly even-keeled and perhaps overly cautious, but this month you may experience an extreme shortage of patience. That’s because you are involved with something or someone that is unusually meaningful and that puts a whole new spin on your placid personality. Whew! Trust yourself – you are smart, capable and creative. Then sit back and enjoy the ride, even if you’d like it to be a little faster. On the romance front, a moment of magic awaits you.
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Libra (September 24-October 23): You’re on a high this month after turning in a stellar performance at work. Treat yourself to some time off. Also, keep track of all your success this year by starting a journal so you can record accomplishments, large and small. That way, when it’s time for your performance review, you will have an airtight case for a promotion. You’ll be extra connected to your man so make the most of it, especially on Valentine’s Day. If newly single, you’ll have fun meeting new people. Be flexible on the 20th.
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Scorpio (October 24-November 22): Offering an apology for a slight mistake may not quite meet the requirements of a persnickety friend or relative. Give it time. Meanwhile, remember why you spend time with this person in the first place and focus on his or her good traits. Femmes fatales are oddly optimistic, after all. At work, you will claim a victory midmonth. Asking for what you want is key to a delightful Valentine’s Night. Spoil yourself on the 1st, 7th, 12th, 14th, 23rd, 27th and 28th.
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Sagittarius (November 23-December 22): I’m the first one to gush about the delights of retail therapy. But this month, before you drop cash on gorgeous heels or a pretty sweater, is there some other investment you should be making – say padding your retirement account or applying for a trademark? If so, get that out of the way first. A wise friend of mine pays cash for everything (no credit) and it’s an excellent way to stay on track budgetwise. Oh, and as long as you’re taking a disciplined approach, be sure to maintain a regular schedule of flirting. If you don’t use those skills, you’ll lose them. 😉
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Kim Novak image from Wikimedia Commons
From FNB readers