Mental concentration and logical thinking are a trifle thin on the ground under the distracting influence of this aspect, for your moods and emotions keep interfering with your thought processes. Your own scattered thoughts aren't much helped by the fact that the people around you seem determined to interrupt you at every opportunity, especially your family or any close relatives and neighbours. It's all very friendly to have folk dropping in for a wee chat and a cup of tea every so often, but if they're beginning to make an unsettling habit of it you may have to put your foot down.

Even when you're sure you have the time and attention to think things out thoroughly and arrive at a balanced view you must take care that your ideas aren't unduly influenced by purely emotional, sentimental factors. The powerful subconscious influence of your upbringing may be influencing your ideas and opinions far more than you realise, especially when you find yourself emotionally attached to a particular point of view. Any arguments or disputes that arise, particularly with family members, and especially the women in your life, may be caused by your unconscious need to defend an idea or assumption you absorbed uncritically at an early age. It's not easy to bring these basic beliefs into the light of day, but you have a chance now to realise just how much of your mental outlook is based on childhood teachings rather than on rational thought.

If dealing with important business affairs you must bear in mind that your judgement is not at its intelligent best now, since purely emotional considerations are far too likely to sway your opinion. Take extra care over all practical details and if possible postpone delicate or difficult negotiations or difficult meetings.

You're under the optimistic influence of a most expansive and enjoyable aspect now, helping you to see the positive potential of even the most difficult situation. Indeed, so certain are you that Lady Luck will step in to help you sort out any tiresome tangles you're quite capable of turning a blind eye to any problems and petty details, storing up trouble for yourself in the process. Time spent fine-tuning your most optimistic ideas and far-reaching plans, however tedious it may seem, will be time well spent.

You ooze big-hearted benevolence and bonhomie from every sociable pore, making this a marvellous time to make an excellent impression on new people you may meet and to expand your circle of friends and contacts in all directions. People respond with pleasure to your self-confidence and good humour, but take care not to be so full of yourself you neglect to give them a look-in. Give other people an equal opportunity to express their opinions. You may be completely convinced that you're ideas are unquestionably correct, wise and authoritative, but you'll annoy potential pals if you come across as too self-righteous and complacent.

Don't trust too much to luck in any legal, official or financial affairs for blind optimism is no substitute for careful consideration and studious deliberation. You're keen to give an impression of being wise, knowledgeable and well-informed, but don't let foolish pride prevent you from admitting to any gaps in your knowledge. So long as you temper your enthusiasm with a little practical caution this can be a very positive and progressive period.

Thoughts taking root in your mind during this obsessive interval could so easily take over everything else until you become a wee bit fanatical and fierce. That's especially true of any doubts you develop over the real intentions and motives of the people around you, for once you've decided they're out to cheat or trick you, almost everything they say or do will seem to confirm your suspicions. Even if they appear totally innocent, you may manage to conclude they're merely stringing you along! Try not to condemn folk merely on suspicion - keep an open mind until solid evidence turns up, and even then make sure you're not jumping to a false and unworthy conclusion due to your blinkered fixation.

You also find it very difficult to settle down to any sociable small-talk with your pals as you tend to labour every point and persist in pushing your own point-of-view until you've out-witted and outmanouevred any opposition. You're mentally pretty sharp and penetrating on your chosen topics and limited field of vision, but most people may well find you a wee bit too overbearing, earnest and intense for a pleasant chat. Don't abandon your sense of humour just because you've got a bee in your bonnet!

Your tendency to take everything a touch too seriously now may lead you to push yourself physically and mentally to the limits, either because you feel you have to prove yourself in some way or because you're so fascinated by a particular challenge you ignore your own tiredness and mental fatigue. Such dedication may be admirable, but it's not likely to do you or anyone else much good, so don't get too carried away by your heroic stance. The chances are you'll be able to think much more clearly when well rested anyway.

This is a very busy and sociable time as you find folk are just as eager to contact you as you are to get involved with community affairs. Your place, whether at home or at work, could well resemble Piccadilly Circus by tea-time if you're not careful! Fortunately you're in fine fettle and easily able to cope with the fascinating influx of ideas, introductions and errands. Indeed, you'll relish the opportunity offered to keep up-to-date with the news and views of your friends and associates, and would much rather be rushed off your feet than bored and twiddling your thumbs in a sterile social vacuum.

If you can get out and about you're sure to bump into all kind of folk who'll be happy to lend an ear to your own ideas as well as putting in their two penn'orth. So if you're lacking in congenial and inspiring contacts make sure you do the rounds now. You won't have to go far, for it's in your own local neighbourhood you'll discover more than enough input to keep you going. You'll positively enjoy the exhilarating sense of personal freedom and independence that comes with a trip away from your usual, routine environment too.

You're acutely aware of your environment now you're feeling so alert and attentive, so why not give your locale the once over and see if there are improvements to be made? You're the perfect person now to gather a group of concerned folk together for talks about how to rectify the matter. You're keen to ally yourself to some kind of worthy cause, from local litter problems to international politics, so why not offer your services? With your sharp intelligence and persuasive power you'll be a real asset!

You're no shrinking violet now, for this dynamic pairing of Mercury and Mars fires up your imagination and pushes you to the forefront, ready to assert your own ideas in the face of any opposition. Your mind's in an extremely active state, brimming over with ideas and preparing a productive plan of action for almost every contingency. You're crystal clear about where your own best interests lie, and won't be easily diverted by slick salesmen or blustering bullies who want to exploit your ideas for their own benefit. You're probably way ahead of any potential rivals anyway, for your mind is working with alert alacrity and blistering speed. Once folk realise your formidable mental powers now, they'll probably back down rather than put up a futile fight, so you shouldn't find yourself drawn into any really bitter arguments.

You certainly won't flinch from any opportunity to cross verbal swords with a worthy opponent, but any such debate will be more of a pleasurable joust than a real fight. Even if you don't win your point, which in itself is unlikely, you'll earn the respect of all for standing up so vigorously for your own ideas.

In your working world you're not ready to simply follow the crowd, especially when you can see ways to improve the efficiency and competitive edge of your particular occupation. Take the initiative in proposing any changes rather than waiting to be asked, for you very quickly get impatient with the usual petty pace of bureaucratic processes. Once folk see how effective your ideas are, they'll quickly forget any resentment at having you force the pace a wee bit. Even if things seem to be moving a bit fast for your own taste, you needn't fear that you've bitten off more than you can chew, for your ideas should be sound and sensible now.

You face up to every challenge with a will of iron and a dogged determination that makes you a winner every time now. You're not interested in taking a tame or timid route when you can look for a decent challenge and tackle something demanding all of your strength and ingenuity, and this uncompromising attitude leads you along some very effective and powerfully progressive paths. If you're at all confused about what you want to accomplish in life, now's the time to ponder your purpose and develop a deeper understanding of what motivates you most powerfully. Once you've decided on a goal, you'll be able to set up such a massive momentum you'll easily overcome any obstacles, even if it tests your strength and stamina to the limit. Your hard work and fixed resolve ensure that any progress you make now is secure and enduring.

Your resources of cash and collateral are likely to play a large part in many of the plans you're pursuing now, whether you need to take out a sizeable loan or want to invest your savings in order to finance a particular venture. Your understanding of the many complex economic, legal and official factors involved is excellent, making this a favourable time to set the budgetary ball rolling. Whilst most folk would be put off by the monetary maze involved in most high-finance, you positively relish the challenge of picking your way through the pecuniary pitfalls. Once you feel folk are trying to conceal anything from you, whether to cheat you of cash or to undermine your position, you won't rest until you've investigated every last detail. This kind of uncompromising attention to detail and unwavering commitment to your goals will take you far now!

The tempo of your life is stepped up to a startling degree as Mercury runs into the electrifying influence of your natal Uranus. If everything's running along on the same old lines you're quite likely to throw a deliberate spanner into the works just to introduce a bit of excitement, for you're very easily bored just now. Most likely though you find your welllaid plans all going awry through no fault of your own as unexpected and unpredictable situations arise and force a radical rethink. You could certainly begin to feel it's a wee bit too much of a good thing as your nerves get more and more frayed and fretful from the need to keep mentally on your toes. Try to be flexible, and be prepared to alter your arrangements at a moment's notice rather than insisting on having your own way.

Beware of brilliant brainwaves appearing at first sight to be flawlessly reasoned for although you are capable now of breaking free of traditional or conventional mental straightjackets, you are in a far from practical state of mind and could easily jump to some weird and wonderful conclusions. Make a few notes of the more striking notions flashing through your racing brain, for there may well be a few nuggets of pure gold amidst the hasty and half-baked rubble, well worth considering in calmer times. Anyone pointing out the errors in your ideas could be in for a temper tantrum as you insist on the freedom to think for yourself and resist any attempt to make you alter your opinions. Avoid all important decisions or dealings with people in authority - you're just a touch too rebellious and bloody-minded to make a good impression!

Your thoughts are very scattered and sketchy now, making concentration very difficult, so try to arrange a schedule with plenty of social stimulation and variety. You may wear yourself to a nervous shadow trying to keep pace with everything that's going on, so make sure you get enough rest.

Your feelings run deep and very strong during this emotionally active time when mighty Mars penetrates the most personal and private part of your life. Family affairs may become much more urgently interesting and even physically demanding as you tackle some ambitious home improvements. You certainly have the energy needed to take on some pretty strenuous odd-jobs and will relish the opportunity to put your own individual stamp on the appearance or even the structure of your abode. You're in such an independent and supremely self-confident state the chances are you'll dispense with any professional aid or advice simply for the pleasure of doing it all yourself, and you're not likely to regret any such self-reliant gesture. Home improvements that would once have taken you an age to decide on and then implement can take place at record speed and very effective efficiency, giving you a great source of satisfaction.

On the equally important emotional front, you want to seek out the company of folk who arouse strong feelings, from your close kith-and-kin to a fond friend. Even the occasional amicable argument will fill you with delight, as you welcome the chance of a good-natured tussle or a bit of friendly competition. Any debates that do arise shouldn't degenerate into a bitter dispute now, for you're able to state your case without getting too acrimonious or intransigent about it. This is an excellent time to clear up any muddles or misunderstandings, even if it requires coming out with a few home truths. Folk will respect your straightforward and honest approach, even if they don't necessarily agree. When faced with a family feud or fracas, you're ideally suited now to insist on a swift and sympathetic settlement, even if it means putting your foot down and laying down the law. Everyone knows you have their own best interests at heart and shouldn't resist too much.

You're such a selfless and sympathetic soul now, willing to put your own egotistical aims to one side if it means helping someone who's down on their luck or struggling against insuperable odds. You just can't stand by and watch weaker folk go to the wall whilst you still have your strength and whatever your specific creed or convictions, you're ready to act on a point of principle, even if it means a certain amount of personal sacrifice or inconvenience. You're easily able to overlook any challenges flung down in front of you if they don't strike you as being honest or ethical, since it's much more important to you to know you've done right by your own inner lights than to simply gain the approval of folk you don't really respect. Self-esteem comes from knowing you've lived up to your ideals as much as is humanly possible. Although this may not be your aim, you'll set an inspiring example by your honourable attitude.

This is also an excellent time to get involved in any secretive, behind-the-scenes or undercover activities since you are so superbly skillful in covering your tracks and laying a false trail to any competitors. You're not interested in gaining a purely personal victory or boosting your own ego, but instead want to put your impressive abilities at the service of some more exalted purpose. Perhaps a spot of fund-raising for a local hospital, or a little voluntary work for your local social services will fit the bill? You may not want to commit yourself to anything so concrete, preferring to respond to the demands made on your kindly compassion every day. Wherever you choose to focus your efforts, you can be sure they will be appreciated and effective.

All at once you're intensely aware of all aspects of beauty around you and want to bustle benevolently about sampling as many of the delights this world has to offer as possible. Even if you've no particular interest in the more cultured pleasures of painting, poetry, music or the theatre, you can at least understand their appeal for others and agreeably expand your own enjoyment. You feel the need to understand the rational reasons behind your pleasures now and in the process of thinking about all that makes life worth living you will deepen and strengthen your appreciation of everything from the arts to your fondness for a particular pal.

If you've been struggling to make a certain someone special understand how much you love them this is the perfect opportunity to whisper those magic words and put your ardent affections across with eloquent and articulate ease. Even casual acquaintances will be attracted by the animated and affectionate aura you exude now, and as a result you may well find you're the popular flavour of the month!

Financial and professional affairs should flourish under your expert management now for you understand very well the value of certain resources and won't hold back when it comes to insisting on a fair deal from anyone you're doing business with. With such an abundance of charm, wit and all-round attractive appeal at your command now you can easily influence any agreements or arrangements to benefit you and yours. It would be a shame to waste the bountiful benefits of this amiable aspect on relatively unimportant issues so don't be deflected from your path by the many deliciously distracting pleasures encountered en route!

Your everyday routine is all set to be enlivened by the inquisitive and animated influence of mastermind Mercury. In fact you could be quite surprised to discover just how interesting your domestic routine is once you take the trouble to enquire into it, from chatting to your neighbours to working out a more efficient way of doing your chores. No domestic detail is too small or prosaic for your sparkling wit and acute intelligence to consider now, so apply your mind to making your home life run like well-oiled clockwork and you'll feel the benefits for a long time to come.

If there are women in your life who've always been a bit of a mystery to you, whatever your own sex, this is a marvelous opportunity to have a chat about the way you feel about each other. You'll be able to avoid getting too bogged down in sentiment or moody resentments, and will be able to clear up all kinds of minor misunderstandings and muddles. You understand your own feelings so much better now, and can comprehend the opposing view of others, even if you decide to disagree on certain points.

Now you've got your home running more efficiently, you may well consider running some kind of business on a casual, part-time basis. This is an excellent time to explain your ideas to your nearest-and-dearest as they may have past experiences you can learn from. So long as you think things through and make sure your plans are aligned with your overall ambitions in life, any endeavour begun now could have splendid future potential.

Sherlock Holmes can't hold a candle to you now, for you latch on to any mystery or puzzle you encounter and dig doggedly away until you've got to the heart of the matter. In your working world this can prove extremely useful, enabling you to chase up long-lost files, solve tangled and complex problems and unravel the threads of a misplaced transaction. You're not about to take any message or instruction simply at face value, and your determination to scrutinise everything catching your attention could lead you to spot some important errors before they go through. You're quite an asset to any employer now!

Once you've uncovered the facts about a particular matter, whether it's in your job or a more personal interest, you're not one to keep it quietly to yourself, for you're more than happy to blow your own trumpet a wee bit. You've put so much care and attention into ascertaining the truth, anyone trying to make you alter your opinion will be in for a very tough time and for once your intransigent insistence that you are right probably has a pertinent point. Indeed, you're keen to point out the logical flaws in anyone else's viewpoint if it differs in even the slightest detail to your own carefully researched position. Temper your uncompromising statements with just a little tact, as even if you are right (and you most likely are), you must remember that unlike you most people are more concerned with saving face than in getting to the truth.

You couldn't pick a more appropriate and productive time to talk to accountants, bank managers, economic advisers and people you share possessions and resources with. If there are any inconsistencies, ambiguities or confusions in your affairs you have the perfect alert and uncompromising approach now to ensure a successful outcome to your talks.

Your imagination takes flights as ever-alert wee Mercury picks up some super-sensitive vibes from nebulous Neptune. Practicalities fade from your view, as your mind drifts dreamily into a much more sympathetic, spiritual and sophisticated mode, turning your attention to the ethereal pleasures of art, intuition and aesthetics. You should pay heed to any hunches arising now, as the chances are you're attuned to any psychic sensitivity you may have, and will intuitively know what folk are feeling and thinking. Even if you're about as psychic as my left shoe, this is a splendid time to delve into the subconscious feelings and fears of yourself and those around you. You'll be able to comprehend even the most muddled account and sympathise with the vague anxieties lying beneath the surface without getting sucked into an over-sentimental emotional reaction. It's a very useful chance to openly discuss issues that are normally very difficult indeed to put into words.

Everyday problems and routine obstacles coming your way should be looked at from an unstructured, imaginative point of view. You're far more likely to come up with a solution if you simply let your imagination go to work and ignore efforts to be methodical and mentally organised. Any doubting Thomas who thinks you're merely fooling around will have to eat their words when they see how well such an unstructured approach can work now! All the same, you should check over any ideas or plans you develop under this erratic influence when your mind is more disciplined later on, for you have little grasp of practicalities at the moment, being far more interested in aesthetic and spiritual considerations.

You're intellectually at an impressive peak during this period, intensely inquisitive in everything and overflowing with interesting ideas about every subject under the sun! You can put across abstract ideas and complex notions that at any other time would have you floundering, making this a superb time to undertake a course of study, or to tackle tests and examinations.

You mind is working so clearly now why not seize the opportunity to think through your personal plans and projects in detail? Anything from your efficiency at work to the way your lifestyle reflects your personal ideals can be fruitfully thought through and if necessary altered to make more effective use of your own unique aptitudes and abilities. This is also a brilliant time to discuss your everyday working routine and environment with bosses, colleagues or clients for you'll be able to make your case with persuasive and eloquent ease, making you a superb negotiator. At the same time you're too sharp witted to be taken in by spurious arguments or misleading comments so you should push ahead with any contracts, agreements or deals you've been setting up. Sign now on the dotted line once you've scrutinised the small print and you can feel confident you've made a wise move.

An opportunity to run lots of local errands and make various visits may arise and could well provide a very welcome chance to discover more about your own community as well as make many new friends and acquaintances. Even if you're normally a shy and retiring soul you're in a restless state and need to stretch your wings a wee bit. New pals you make now will prove delightfully stimulating and lively, though your contact could remain relatively superficial unless you make a deliberate effort to communicate with folk on a deeper level from time to time.

Prepare to breathe a little fresh air into any closed corners of your mind, under the excitable influence of Mercury stirring up your own Uranian energies. It's much easier now for you to look at even old, entrenched issues and ideas free from past prejudices and in the true spirit of open-minded enquiry.

In your working world and everyday activities in particular you should find it very helpful to think things through from an entirely new angle. It could mean introducing a totally revolutionary way of organising your time, or perhaps applying modern technological solutions to old professional problems. You feel liberated from the past, and able to make creative changes to generally improve the efficiency of your world, even if it means your normal routine will be disrupted whilst new systems are set up. Colleagues, companions and close friends you thought you knew inside out may display an unsuspected penchant for up-to-the-minute ideas and interests, making this a stimulating time for a wide-ranging discussion or idealistic chat. Far from feeling threatened by the discovery that even close chums can still surprise you with their ideas, you're thrilled to find new areas of interest to enliven your relationship. There's nothing you like better than a spot of intellectual exploration in congenial company!

As well as seeing old pals in a new light, you should be ready to add unusual and interesting new acquaintances to your social circle. You're immensely curious about alternative social, political and ecological viewpoints now and leap at any opportunity to discuss the issues with folk from a different background. It's all very fascinating, and you may make some firm friends in the process!

Take stock of your everyday environment, whether it's your office at work, your own four walls or any other place where you spend regular hours. Is it set up along truly efficient and effective lines, or is there room for improvement? With your super-critical and every-alert eye now you're sure to spot organisational aspects falling short of perfection, so set about installing the required improvements.

There may be times when you'd find the task of creating order out of such chaotic conditions overwhelming and depressing, but at the moment you're able to take things one step at a time, and to recognise the many good points already in place. You may be tempted to sit back and simply criticise the poor working practices of others, but have the good sense to see that a far more constructive approach is to set a good example, and that's where you excel now. It could mean anything from rearranging your schedule to pack in more appointments to working out a filing system that actually works. It's deeply satisfying to know you've made things work a little smoother, and you'll impress the powers-that-be with your serious and businesslike attitude too. If you're engaged in any studies or work involving close concentration and diligent attention to detail, you're in the perfect frame of mind to get down to work now. It's more difficult for you to fit your ideas into an overall pattern or plan, so stick to topics requiring detailed precision and thoroughness.

Socially you're not much interested in superficial chatter, much preferring a serious conversation with someone whose ideas you respect. You'll find older, more experienced people are very approachable just now, so seize the opportunity to hear their sage counsel. It's sure to be sound advice well worth giving serious consideration.

Mentally you're endowed with such an extraordinary abundance of self-assertive energy and incredible self-confidence now you're just not content to keep your mouth shut, even when silence would be the best policy! Rather than allowing your extrovert and aggressive attitude to get you into endless disputes and petty quarrels, try to channel your incisive intelligence into constructive and useful activities. Anything demanding a certain amount of fierce concentration and ruthless analysis of a situation will find you on your mental mettle, ready to rise splendidly to the challenge. This is a very auspicious time for examinations or tests that give a competitive edge of excitement to all you do.

This is likely to be a very busy period socially as you dash hither and thither trying to keep up with all your contacts and if possible break new ground in expanding your social circle. Folk you meet will certainly be impressed by your energy, enthusiasm and unequivocal opinions, but don't push your luck when dealing with folk who disagree with your point of view. YOU may delight in the cut and thrust of debate but not everyone will appreciate the sharpness of your wit or your desire to win a verbal battle at all costs! You're not at your most tactful now and must remember to make allowances for peoples' feelings.

You're liable to be in such a rush trying to cram as much as possible into your time you could tend to take a few too many risks when travelling, so watch out for the speed limit if you're driving, and try to have a little extra patience for road-users operating at a slower pace. We can't all be blessed with your dynamic energy and drive!

The challenging spirit of adventure and independence captures your attention now, making you instantly impatient with anyone or anything threatening to curb your personal freedom. Fortunately not too many folk will be foolish enough to try, since they're more likely to realise you need to be given your head and there's little point in trying to make you toe the line. Wherever possible you should deviate from your usual routine, just to inject a note of exploration into your daily round. You wind up irritable and disappointed if you try to carry on with business as usual.

You have the courage now to try out any original, innovative and inventive ideas that come along, clearly seeing that the way forward in this life lies in accepting the modern world with all of its technological, scientific and electronic advances. You may be ahead of your time in this, especially where the powers-that-be are concerned, but they should recognise the value of your explorative attitude, and won't try too hard to stand in your way. Although you've no time at all for stick-inthe-mud conservatives you're not about to step so far out of line you incur their damaging disapproval.

Whilst insisting on personal freedom, you're not interested in ploughing a totally solitary furrow now. Indeed, you realise the value of having stimulating friends to help you develop your own ideas and to join you in any crusade you decide to lead. Your initiatives are appreciated and accepted by most open-minded folk now, making for a very satisfactory time of personal progress.

If you've been bumbling along, making up your life's plan as you go along, you should make the most of this invaluable opportunity to take a more penetrating peek into your future, and think deeply about your long-term aspirations. It's so much easier than usual for you to work out the likely long-term consequences of actions you take now, and for once you're inclined to look on the bright side and see the abundant positive possibilities stretching out before you. You should speak to as many people as possible about your bright ideas rather than keep them to yourself, for you could be surprised to discover how many influential and powerful folk will listen favourably.

You also have a much greater than usual appetitive for new notions, extra information and anything that will broaden your mental scope. You couldn't pick a more enjoyable or rewarding time to travel, whether it's investigating more of your local neighbourhood or undertaking a long-distance voyage of exploration. False modesty and bashfulness won't hold you back or prevent you from making the acquaintance of fascinating and potentially very useful folk wherever you go. So take a good thick address book with you wherever you go, and be prepared to strike up some richly rewarding relationships.

You're so keen to stretch beyond the banal and boring boundaries of your usual outlook now you may well want to top up your education in some way. This is a wonderful time to sign on for evening classes, take out a teach-yourself book or even embark on a high-powered course at college. You're able to make the most of any chance you get to expand your mental horizons without being so overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task that you give up. You come across with such an optimistic and enthusiastic air you'll find plenty of learned and erudite folk only too happy to help you out!

Take a look at your overall ambitions in life and give some careful thought about the precise plan required to take you towards your goal. You realise now the importance of making sure your efforts are co-ordinated and controlled for the maximum effect and efficiency, since so often your best efforts can come to nothing owing to a simple lack of organisation and clarity of purpose. That's certainly not your problem now, as the impatient energy of Mars is harmoniously harnesser by the disciplined rays of Saturn. This goves you the dogged determination and dutiful diligence that's carefully calculated to take you a good long way along your chosen route. Your stamina in pursuing a long-standing goal despite all kinds of obstacles is superb now, making you a formidable opponent even though you might lack sociable flair and diplomatic charm. In the long run you understand that it's careful preparation, thorough attention to detail and relentless determination that will help you win through, and that's just where you excel now.

Pie-in-the-sky hopes and wishes mean nothing to you now, for you're only ready to act on a purely pragmatic and totally practical plan based on a realistic assessment of your options. You're even ready to deny yourself all kinds of immediate pleasures in order to lay a firm foundation for your long-term aims, though the chances are any sacrifices you make now won't be too onerous or burdensome. Indeed, you rather enjoy the chance to set distracting frivolities aside for a while in order to concentrate on the important activities that really interest you. All in all this is a time of great satisfaction and an exciting sense of real, though unspectacular, progress.

Any attempt to apply logic or reason out a sensible position during this super-sensitive span is doomed to failure, for you're mentally all at sea now. The simplest task may seem hopelessly confused as your mind wanders off along all kind of bewildering imaginative by-ways and seductive side-tracks, leaving you absent-mindedly wondering what you were trying to do. Your memory is also apt to mislead and muddle things up, so write down any important facts and figures, and put the piece of paper somewhere safe!

If you MUST tackle unavoidable business dealings or financial transactions you will need to get everything in writing, and have it checked by someone whose sound and sensible judgement you trust for you're at your most gullible and vulnerable now. You want to believe the best of everyone and will overlook the most obvious warning signals simply because someone has a kind smile or looks unhappy. If at all possible, leave all official affairs until another time when the fog has lifted from your brain, and certainly postpone any far-reaching commitments.

When travelling or doing your daily rounds now you must make an extra effort to concentrate, especially when driving, for in your foggy and forgetful state you could so easily lose your concentration at a critical moment. Don't tackle any long-distance trips unless you have everything extremely well planned. You're inclined to get lost, lose your bearings and get generally muddled when out and about. Watch out for oil or fuel leaks if you're driving.

Even if you're normally tongue-tied and timid you're ready and willing to speak up for yourself at this time, indeed you'll hardly be able to keep your mouth shut or your feet still under this tremendously restless and stimulating aspect. You're overflowing with ideas and will leap at any opportunity to air your opinions and discuss your views with anyone willing to listen, making you very lively and superbly stimulating company. Of course you must bear in mind that communication is a two-way process, and make sure you give others a chance to get a word in edgeways, otherwise you could find your admiring audience melting away!

You're certainly not interested now in meekly adopting the point-of-view dictated by others or demanded by your social position. Instead you seek a chance to express yourself as a unique individual with a mind of your own. Obviously, the response you meet with will very much depend on where you decide to voice your views - after all, for example, your boss may not relish your thoughts on where the firm is going wrong, and your spouse may prefer to hear a white lie rather than the bald truth! However even if you do come out with the occasional faux-pas, you are quick-witted and articulate enough now to speedily and fluently gloss over any differences of opinion. In fact your intellectual abilities and verbal skills earn you lots of respect and admiration from every corner.

This is a fine time to travel, especially if you're following up opportunities for promoting your own interests and creative concerns. A visit to a museum or art gallery, or perhaps a meeting with people who are experts in your field will yield plenty of nourishing food for thought and help to put you on a fascinating and fulfilling personal track.

All at once you're charged up with an immense amount of mental energy that'll have you rushing around at breakneck speed trying to follow up every lead and rise instantly to every challenge. You'll wear yourself to a shadow if you keep it up without at least pausing for breath from time to time, but at least you'll have accomplished an enormous amount of work and a mountain of minor errands!

You like nothing better than the cut and thrust of a mentally demanding debate now that your wit is sharpened to a razor's edge and you have no hesitation at all in putting your particular point of view across with vim, verve and vigour! So long as you're with folk who appreciate a bit of a challenge you're in for a fine time but lively discussions or even heated debates could all too easily degenerate into all-out arguments if you're not careful. Try not to let trivial incidents or irrelevant remarks get your goat and be prepared to back down rather than pick a quarrel just for the sake of it!

So long as you make a deliberate effort to concentrate your incisive intelligence and formidable energy on a challenge that is worthy of you, this can be an extremely productive, satisfying and constructive period so make sure you're too busy with really important plans to waste time on unnecessary irritable outbursts.

When travelling it would be as well to take extra care, especially when it comes to keeping within the speed limit for you're inclined to be just a wee bit too hasty for your own good from time to time.

Your self-confidence knows no bounds under this incredibly auspicious astral influence, for you have overflowing physical strength allied to an optimistic vision of a golden future to motivate you. Above all, you should seize the initiative now and ACT, rather than simply preparing a plan, for it's in actually making your move that the heavenly benefits promised now will make their presence felt. It's most important to you now to follow your personal principles, whether in public or private, and your integrity as an individual may well be your greatest strength now. If you're interested in making your mark in a religious, political or academic establishment, you couldn't pick a better time to embark on your campaign. Don't be bashful in pushing yourself forward, for folk are more likely to be impressed by your audacity than put out by your presumption!

This is an excellent time make far-reaching decisions about the future path of your life, for the power of positive thinking and effective action will take you a good distance along the way to your most optimistic ambitions, probably much faster than you dared to hope. Lady Luck certainly seems to be standing by with a heavenly helping hand, but most of your good fortune now is down to a good-natured grasp of your personal potential, refusal to compromise on your integrity, and bold and enthusiastic action. Wishful thinking may satisfy more timid folk, but you're ready to grasp the nettle and will reap rich rewards for your daring.

Fortunately you're not likely to allow complacency to set in, for you're equally keen on self-improvement now, whether that means toning up your physique or expanding your knowledge of the world. You'll cheerfully tackle quite daunting tasks and will benefit enormously from accepting the challenge.

You'd love to assert yourself more and show folk just what you're capable of, but you don't seem to be able to summon up the energy just now! Mighty Mars is caught in a nebulous Neptunian net, and the result for you is drained vitality, listless languor and discouraging doubts. Your physical health may well be a cause of some concern as you wonder where all your drive and determination has vanished to. There may be allergies or infections at the root of your fatigue, so it's well worth having a check-up, but it could also simply be the results of recent over-work or worry taking its toll. Make sure you get plenty of rest and relaxation. Be extremely careful when using medicines, indulging in drink or drugs, for you're far more sensitive and susceptible than usual. Stick very strictly and conscientiously to the prescribed dose or sensible limits.

Everyday errands and challenges you normally handle with ease may seem much more daunting and discouraging than usual, partly because you have allowed past problems to sap your self-confidence. Certainly there's no point in forcing yourself to tackle anything really important or testing, since you're not at your capable and conscientious best. Indeed, you may be sorely tempted to achieve your aims through secretive, underhand or even dishonest means, but you will regret it in the long run, even if you succeed now. Anyone encouraging you to take a devious short-cut to get your own way should be ignored, for they may be out to exploit rather than assist you. You may want to believe their seductive spiel, but this is a most inauspicious time to stray even momentarily from the straight and narrow.

As Mars sparks off the exuberant energy of your natal Sun so you're endowed with so much vim, vitality and vigour you can hardly bear to sit still for more than a moment! It's most important that you find something really constructive to do with all the self-assertive energy at your disposal now for if you're at a loose end your zest and zeal could so easily spill over into argumentative irritations. Set yourself a decent challenge and you'll be too busy to bother with petty bickering!

You can be counted on to give your all to any project you're engaged in now, for you've no patience at all with folk who take the easy option and try to take a back seat. In fact you've very little patience for anything or anyone threatening to hold you back or stand in your way, which could make you a wee bit fierce and formidable to the more timid folk around! You're marvellous leadership material and won't take at all kindly to a subordinate position, whether it's in your personal life or amongst friends and colleagues. So long as folk are prepared to give you your head you'll live up to their most exalted expectations or bust a gut in the process, especially if there's an element of competition involved.

This brings me to the potential risks, as you could be prone to over-strain or accidents due to your impatient impetuosity at this time. Think about what you really want to achieve and work out a loose plan of action before charging in where angels fear to tread. If you use your fantastic fund of dynamic drive and enterprising initiative intelligently now there's no limit to the accomplishments that may be within your reach.

Any attempt to apply logic or reason out a sensible position during this super-sensitive span is doomed to failure, for you're mentally all at sea now. The simplest task may seem hopelessly confused as your mind wanders off along all kind of bewildering imaginative by-ways and seductive side-tracks, leaving you absent-mindedly wondering what you were trying to do. Your memory is also apt to mislead and muddle things up, so write down any important facts and figures, and put the piece of paper somewhere safe!

If you MUST tackle unavoidable business dealings or financial transactions you will need to get everything in writing, and have it checked by someone whose sound and sensible judgement you trust for you're at your most gullible and vulnerable now. You want to believe the best of everyone and will overlook the most obvious warning signals simply because someone has a kind smile or looks unhappy. If at all possible, leave all official affairs until another time when the fog has lifted from your brain, and certainly postpone any far-reaching commitments.

When travelling or doing your daily rounds now you must make an extra effort to concentrate, especially when driving, for in your foggy and forgetful state you could so easily lose your concentration at a critical moment. Don't tackle any long-distance trips unless you have everything extremely well planned. You're inclined to get lost, lose your bearings and get generally muddled when out and about. Watch out for oil or fuel leaks if you're driving.

Mighty Mars has returned to the position he held at your birth, triggering off a fresh influx of extra energy and stimulating your most independent and self-assertive instincts. If you've gradually drifted into a rut and have lost your way lately, now's the time to take life by the scruff of the neck once again and make some kind of new beginning. You're no longer content to follow the crowd and want to forge a fresh trail all of your own, and whilst you're in this forceful state I wouldn't fancy the chances of anyone who tried to get in your way! Apply the spirit of enterprise, initiative and adventure to any area of your life that's become stale or stagnant and you'll make the most of your devastating dynamism and drive. If you're considering pushing on to a professional peak, your best opportunities are likely to come through taking independent action rather than trying to follow an established route. You may even decide to strike out on your own and become self-employed and so long as you're careful not to antagonise the opposition or even potential supporters this is a splendid time for such a move.

You have so much physical energy at your command now you should find some constructive way to burn it off - perhaps a competitive sport or demanding exercise routine would fit the bill? If you try to sit this period out without allowing some kind of positive outlet you could find yourself drawn willy nilly into all kinds of petty disputes and senseless quarrels simply because you're all fired up and raring to go! Of course you could be tempted to rush around in such a fast and furious fashion you tend to let sensible safety considerations slide, so take a little extra time and care when driving or handling machinery of any kind.

You feel sensational under this potently pleasurable planetary pairing as mighty Mars links lovingly with your natal Venus. Your sex appeal is certainly enhanced, making this a marvellous time for marital bliss and romantic rapture. This is the perfect time to lavish your loving attentions on your other half for they should respond readily to any amorous initiative. If you're without a passionate partner at the moment, you should step out into the social round and boldly approach anyone who catches your roving eye. Shyness falls away as your meet with an encouraging and warm welcome, and pretty soon you could find yourself gazing into the adoring eyes of someone very special. Quite possibly though you prefer to keep your independence just now in which case you should devote yourself to the pursuit of platonic pleasures and light-hearted laughter. You have all the strength and stamina required to make the most of every single social opportunity, and if there are no invites in your diary, invite yourself along to some interesting outings for with your lively charm you should be welcomed with open arms.

You're acutely aware of the appearance of your everyday surroundings now, instantly noticing any features falling short of your personal standards of style and beauty. Rather than complaining, you're ready now to take matters into your own hands and instigate a programme of improvements that will surround you and yours with the last word in exquisite elegance. If you have artistic interests, this is also an excellent time to actively pursue your creative ambitions.

Purely practical affairs will also be aided by your social successes, enabling you to make lucrative links with people who can aid you economically.

If you've been bumbling along, making up your life's plan as you go along, you should make the most of this invaluable opportunity to take a more penetrating peek into your future, and think deeply about your long-term aspirations. It's so much easier than usual for you to work out the likely long-term consequences of actions you take now, and for once you're inclined to look on the bright side and see the abundant positive possibilities stretching out before you. You should speak to as many people as possible about your bright ideas rather than keep them to yourself, for you could be surprised to discover how many influential and powerful folk will listen favourably.

You also have a much greater than usual appetitive for new notions, extra information and anything that will broaden your mental scope. You couldn't pick a more enjoyable or rewarding time to travel, whether it's investigating more of your local neighbourhood or undertaking a long-distance voyage of exploration. False modesty and bashfulness won't hold you back or prevent you from making the acquaintance of fascinating and potentially very useful folk wherever you go. So take a good thick address book with you wherever you go, and be prepared to strike up some richly rewarding relationships.

You're so keen to stretch beyond the banal and boring boundaries of your usual outlook now you may well want to top up your education in some way. This is a wonderful time to sign on for evening classes, take out a teach-yourself book or even embark on a high-powered course at college. You're able to make the most of any chance you get to expand your mental horizons without being so overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task that you give up. You come across with such an optimistic and enthusiastic air you'll find plenty of learned and erudite folk only too happy to help you out!

Put your nose to the grindstone and prepare to persevere with all of your personal projects, occupational ambitions and everyday errands, for results can only be achieved through careful, cautious and controlled work now. It's intensely frustrating to be faced with so many heavy responsibilities and unexciting obligations just when you're raring to make your mark in the world, but there are no short cuts to the success you seek. Ranting and raving at the obstacles will only squander your energy in fruitless fretting. Giving in to your rash and reckless urge to speed things up at the expense of attention to detail, whatever you are trying to achieve, will only result in extra time and trouble as you correct the errors made in your haste.

Fear of failure may become a powerful force in your life for a while, making you hesitate to tackle tasks you'd normally take on with cheerful courage. Difficulties and discouragements facing you now begin to undermine your self-confidence and sow seeds of doubt in your own abilities if you're not careful. Don't take any obstacles you encounter too personally.

This is not a propitious time to push for promotion or to tackle the boss about working conditions or opportunities as it's so difficult for you to express yourself in a positive yet patient way. You'll either take a discouraging response too much to heart and conclude that it's a lost cause, or you'll be so angry at meeting with delays that you'll utter a few choice words that won't do your prospects any good at all!

This is a period of hard work and dogged determination when your resources of energy and enthusiasm may be drained and depleted if you try to push yourself too hard.

Any attempt to apply logic or reason out a sensible position during this super-sensitive span is doomed to failure, for you're mentally all at sea now. The simplest task may seem hopelessly confused as your mind wanders off along all kind of bewildering imaginative by-ways and seductive side-tracks, leaving you absent-mindedly wondering what you were trying to do. Your memory is also apt to mislead and muddle things up, so write down any important facts and figures, and put the piece of paper somewhere safe!

If you MUST tackle unavoidable business dealings or financial transactions you will need to get everything in writing, and have it checked by someone whose sound and sensible judgement you trust for you're at your most gullible and vulnerable now. You want to believe the best of everyone and will overlook the most obvious warning signals simply because someone has a kind smile or looks unhappy. If at all possible, leave all official affairs until another time when the fog has lifted from your brain, and certainly postpone any far-reaching commitments.

When travelling or doing your daily rounds now you must make an extra effort to concentrate, especially when driving, for in your foggy and forgetful state you could so easily lose your concentration at a critical moment. Don't tackle any long-distance trips unless you have everything extremely well planned. You're inclined to get lost, lose your bearings and get generally muddled when out and about. Watch out for oil or fuel leaks if you're driving.

Even if you're normally tongue-tied and timid you're ready and willing to speak up for yourself at this time, indeed you'll hardly be able to keep your mouth shut or your feet still under this tremendously restless and stimulating aspect. You're overflowing with ideas and will leap at any opportunity to air your opinions and discuss your views with anyone willing to listen, making you very lively and superbly stimulating company. Of course you must bear in mind that communication is a two-way process, and make sure you give others a chance to get a word in edgeways, otherwise you could find your admiring audience melting away!

You're certainly not interested now in meekly adopting the point-of-view dictated by others or demanded by your social position. Instead you seek a chance to express yourself as a unique individual with a mind of your own. Obviously, the response you meet with will very much depend on where you decide to voice your views - after all, for example, your boss may not relish your thoughts on where the firm is going wrong, and your spouse may prefer to hear a white lie rather than the bald truth! However even if you do come out with the occasional faux-pas, you are quick-witted and articulate enough now to speedily and fluently gloss over any differences of opinion. In fact your intellectual abilities and verbal skills earn you lots of respect and admiration from every corner.

This is a fine time to travel, especially if you're following up opportunities for promoting your own interests and creative concerns. A visit to a museum or art gallery, or perhaps a meeting with people who are experts in your field will yield plenty of nourishing food for thought and help to put you on a fascinating and fulfilling personal track.

All at once you're charged up with an immense amount of mental energy that'll have you rushing around at breakneck speed trying to follow up every lead and rise instantly to every challenge. You'll wear yourself to a shadow if you keep it up without at least pausing for breath from time to time, but at least you'll have accomplished an enormous amount of work and a mountain of minor errands!

You like nothing better than the cut and thrust of a mentally demanding debate now that your wit is sharpened to a razor's edge and you have no hesitation at all in putting your particular point of view across with vim, verve and vigour! So long as you're with folk who appreciate a bit of a challenge you're in for a fine time but lively discussions or even heated debates could all too easily degenerate into all-out arguments if you're not careful. Try not to let trivial incidents or irrelevant remarks get your goat and be prepared to back down rather than pick a quarrel just for the sake of it!

So long as you make a deliberate effort to concentrate your incisive intelligence and formidable energy on a challenge that is worthy of you, this can be an extremely productive, satisfying and constructive period so make sure you're too busy with really important plans to waste time on unnecessary irritable outbursts.

When travelling it would be as well to take extra care, especially when it comes to keeping within the speed limit for you're inclined to be just a wee bit too hasty for your own good from time to time.

You're so supremely confident of your own ability and importance under this optimistic aspect, you can hardly see how you can possibly fail, whatever you tackle. Your adventurous audacity may take some folk so much by surprise that you get away with it at first, but don't start taking your 'beginner's luck' for granted or you could come a cropper. Enthusiasm and energy are yours in abundance now, but they are not enough on their own to ensure success in all you attempt. Careful planning, practical prudence and sympathetic support are also necessary, and you have little patience with such petty points just now. Take careful stock of your resources of everything from hard cash to personal good-will and information before you even think of taking on a new venture. A rash and reckless attitude may help you to make a grand gesture, but it won't set you on a sound path forward.

You have a particular interest in the social, cultural or religious rights and wrongs of your actions, and may put a good deal of effort into finding a moral justification for the actions you wanted to take anyway. Try not to kid yourself about the selective nature of your beliefs, and watch out for a tendency to force your own views on others. You may be convinced it's for their own good, but are you really sure you're not simply trying to dominate? You must respect the right of others to hold different beliefs and standards.

Physically you're also inclined to bite off far more than you can chew, optimistically refusing to recognise the normal limitations on your energy dictated by common sense. You may feel as fit as a fiddle, but even your brimming vitality can be exhausted if you don't look after yourself properly.

You're a force to be reckoned with now Mars meets up with your natal Pluto, for you're packed to the belligerent brim with will-power and a ruthless determination to get your own way, come what may. You won't brook any feeble excuses either from comrades and colleagues OR yourself when it comes to forging ahead with your ambitions and as a result can come across as a bit harsh and unfeeling. However there's no doubt that you can accomplish extraordinary results with such an uncompromising attitude.

You relish any opportunity to wield power, whether you're in a prominent position or simply in charge of your own domestic domain. Although there is obviously always a temptation to abuse power and make people knuckle down just for the pleasure of being in control, you also have the chance to use your potent personality for the good now. Channel your formidable energies into tackling difficult situations, especially involving shared finances, joint possessions or inheritance issues and you'll be able to make an impact in even the most obdurate of impasses. You may be called on to prune the dead wood from some areas, and the more effectively you eliminate old ideas and attitudes now the more your finances will flourish in the future.

A little extra care over your personal security and the safety of your possessions may be advisable as your own unyielding attitude can so easily arouse the anger of others who could become a trifle obsessive in their search for revenge. Avoid any high-risk areas in your neighbourhood and don't allow yourself to be drawn into a losing battle with folk who may mean you harm.

You will tend to take everything you tackle very seriously indeed during this period, so try to ensure a few moments of light relief to help you keep things in perspective!