The coming week will see a great many individuals planning for the future in ways that are not quite routine -- and friends and family members are far more likely to get into the act because of concerns that rules are not being heeded and instructions not followed. Conflict is likely to erupt as those who are more inclined to do things their way clash with those who want things to be done as usual. But this week, the advantage will rest with those who are compelled to buck tradition and explore new ways of doing things. Indeed, those with a more conservative bent will find themselves facing profound change, while the hint of productive compromise may loom in the distance, seen by only a choice few.
It's important for each individual to know what he or she wants, what must be done to get it and how to ensure that the benefits of any success are lasting. No one wants to put in a great deal of effort for fleeting joy; this week, permanence is the ultimate goal, and contentment the ultimate result.
ARIES (March 21-April 4) -- You are far more interested in the details than the big picture, so you'll have to rely on someone to familiarize you with the lay of the land. (April 5-April 19) -- You may sense that things are reaching a boiling point, so now is the time for you to do what you can to keep them from getting out of hand.
TAURUS (April 20-May 5) -- Your ability to keep things running smoothly will benefit everyone around you this week; you may not get the chance to take any time off. (May 6-May 20) -- You're facing a certain deadline, but you don't really know just yet what is expected of you. After you take a few shots in the dark, all will be revealed.
GEMINI (May 21-June 6) -- Now is no time to turn away from those who have made it abundantly clear that your help is needed. Only you can do what must be done. (June 7-June 20) -- You'll redefine what it means to multitask this week; others will be impressed with your ability to address various complex issues all at one time.
CANCER (June 21-July 7) -- You'll want to register complaints to the right people today. Someone is waiting for you to lead the way. (July 8-July 22) -- You may be surprised to learn that you are just as capable as the experts when it comes to a certain endeavor. This week you can prove it in dramatic fashion.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 7) -- You may have to lay down the law early in the week so that others do not make a habit of crossing the line and rubbing you the wrong way. (Aug. 8-Aug. 22) -- You may be standing in your way as the week opens, but a friend or partner takes your hand and guides you back into the open. Productivity increases quickly.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 7) -- You may have decided to pare down this week, but you'll get an inauspicious start as you recognize so much you want to hang on to. (Sept. 8-Sept. 22) -- You're likely to receive instructions from two very different sources, and this week's journey is one that allows you to discover your unique methods.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 7) -- Your initial attempts to make contact with someone aren't likely to pan out -- but later in the week a chance encounter solves the problem. (Oct. 8-Oct. 22) -- You'll be in the mood to straighten things up all week long -- key issues as well as your personal environment. Others may well follow your lead.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 7) -- You can avoid any serious dangers this week simply by sticking to what you know best. Stray outside of your comfort zone at your risk. (Nov. 8-Nov. 21) -- You'll learn much from someone who is clearly older and more experienced than you -- but he or she is likely to learn something from you before the week is out.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 7) -- You're not able to move with the same comfort this week as you did last week until you dispense with something that is holding you down. (Dec. 8-Dec. 21) -- You may not be able to stand the status quo any longer, and this week you'll put into motion several plans designed to shake things up productively.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 6) -- Someone may be misinterpreting your words or actions this week. Take the time to clarify both your motives and your methods. (Jan. 7-Jan. 19) -- You'll rediscover a passion this week as you embark on a journey of discovery. A good friend passes the torch to you, and you can accomplish a great deal of good.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 3) -- A long creative process may be coming to an end this week, but you'll not feel sorry that you must move on. Indeed, it's time! (Feb. 4-Feb. 18) -- Apologies are likely to come your way this week, but they cannot undo the damage done in a recent unfortunate encounter. That is entirely up to you.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 5) -- The week begins with you in a rather nasty mood, but a good friend pulls you out of whatever dark place you're in -- and all rejoice! (March 6-March 20) -- You're going to have to make several very tricky decisions this week, all having to do with personal preferences that clash with those of a friend.