The coming week is likely to begin very much as expected for most individuals who are, in the traditional vein, looking back even as they look forward -- and the traditional will count for much during these first seven days of the new year. Some, however, will take advantage of this opportunity to make sweeping changes that seem to flout tradition entirely and lean aggressively toward a bold new future and a new kind of life. Work, family, love, faith -- all may be examined and tossed into a melting pot that can yield much that is novel in the lives of many. Almost everyone will know someone who has chosen to throw caution to the wind and do the seemingly inexplicable in order to maximize his or her chances for a brighter future.
What all this means is that the week's events can prove pivotal for the year to come, and one's actions will surely shape much of what happens in the approaching months. Anyone who believes that this is just another new year is fooling himself -- and there may be a price to pay as a result!
ARIES (March 21-April 4) -- Your sense of humor is likely to carry you through a week that would otherwise prove quite trying. Others show their support. (April 5-April 19) -- Several people are likely to drift into your orbit, but the cause is unclear. Soon you'll understand what is really going on.
TAURUS (April 20-May 5) -- You may be eager to see how your plans are resonating with others, but you don't want to hold things up for this reason. Keep moving forward! (May 6-May 20) -- Coming events will be worth remembering, and you may be able to build momentum each and every day.
GEMINI (May 21-June 6) -- You may not have realized just what is at stake, but your ability to roll with the punches will surely come in handy. (June 7-June 20) -- You may reconnect with someone who, perhaps years ago, influenced you in a way that you will never forget. Progress continues.
CANCER (June 21-July 7) -- You can turn things around and begin anew, but be certain you aren't simply hiding from that which cannot be ignored. (July 8-July 22) -- You may be seeking a commitment from someone who is not in a position to give you one, but by week's end you'll know exactly what is possible.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 7) -- You may be approaching a deadline of sorts that makes you more nervous than you would otherwise be. Don't procrastinate! (Aug. 8-Aug. 22) -- You will want to be fully prepared before heading into a situation controlled by a rival. You cannot afford any sort of misstep!
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 7) -- You may have to be reminded more than once to stay on task. There is much going on around you that is competing for your attention. (Sept. 8-Sept. 22) -- This is a good week to prove your loyalty to another and his or her cause. Don't let a rival surprise you in any way.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 7) -- You're eager to make a pledge to someone who is ready for more of what you have to offer -- but how can this benefit you, exactly? (Oct. 8-Oct. 22) -- The plans you make now can remain in effect for quite some time. You'll want to include others as you strategize further.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 7) -- You may have to proceed with unusual caution as the week begins, but later on you can remove any restraints and explore more freely. (Nov. 8-Nov. 21) -- Someone close to you is in need of just the kind of assistance only you can give -- and giving it will enable you to make an important demonstration.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 7) -- You know what is coming, and you know how it will affect you overall. You are eager to see if others are affected similarly. (Dec. 8-Dec. 21) -- You may be getting used to something that only recently was still causing you a great deal of stress. This can prove quite beneficial.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 6) -- Letting go of one plan in favor of another may be unavoidable, but that doesn't mean you have to let it go for good. (Jan. 7-Jan. 19) -- Current affairs will provide inspiration for the next few weeks, and those who work with you will give you some good ideas.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 3) -- You are nearing the end of an important personal phase. The fact that it didn't conclude with the passing of the year actually bodes well. (Feb. 4-Feb. 18) -- You're not doing what you should be doing, and you know it. You'll have a chance to mend your ways and get back on track.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 5) -- When someone lays down the law, you'll want to follow it to the letter -- knowing full well that a time for change will come. (March 6-March 20) -- Now is no time to protest the coming of a new era -- instead, you will want to take advantage of the opportunities it brings.