Born today, you are always at your best when you are following your instincts and doing things in a way that is uniquely your own. This doesn't mean, of course, that you are incapable or unwilling to learn from others and from what they have done before you; on the contrary, that kind of information always comes in handy for you -- but you are not one simply to play "copycat" and do what others have done simply because it has a proven track record. Rather, you will learn from it, and then proceed to do a similar or related thing in a way that is your own and that cannot be imitated.
There is always a risk to doing things your own way, and the truth is that you're sure to attract more than your share of criticism -- largely from those who are jealous of you and your ability to remain true to yourself no matter what. You let such criticism roll off your back -- though you are not immune to the occasional sting.
Also born on this date are: Jennifer Garner, actress; Olivia Hussey, actress; Harry Reasoner, journalist; William Holden, actor.
To see what is in store for you tomorrow, find your birthday and read the corresponding paragraph. Let your birthday star be your daily guide.
THURSDAY, APRIL 18
ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- You'll want to take care that you don't push yourself too far or too fast today. Focus on that which is within reach; remain realistic.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- You are surrounded by reminders of a certain episode that you wish to both remember and forget. You must work to find a balance.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- It's a good day to do those things that you are always telling others to do -- especially if they have anything to do with your health.
CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- You've been trying to break a certain bad habit for quite a while now -- but perhaps you merely need to channel that energy elsewhere.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- You're going to have to face a certain uncomfortable reality head-on today, but once you do, you can expect things to be much easier to deal with.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- You can't avoid all complications today, but you can certainly focus on those things that are at least as streamlined as they can be.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- You know what you're looking at today, and you know how to react appropriately -- and in a way that gives you room to maneuver.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- You're after more in the way of comfort and harmony at this time than you are likely to find anywhere but at home.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Your confidence is on the rise, and you're eager to find something to which you can apply your considerable talents -- right now!
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- You know when you're right, and you know when you're wrong -- but today you may be lacking your usual certainty as you "tread water."
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- You may not know what others mean at every turn, but the messages you get will give you an indication that something is coming.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) -- You mustn't reveal too much about yourself to someone you have only just met. Today you'll want to test the waters very carefully.