Horoscope

COSMIC FORECAST Mercury, planet of communication, will be retrograde until January 25, bringing mechanical breakdowns, frustrating travel plans or causing personal setbacks. It's critical to stay positive. You may discover a detail that is key to your success. After the 18th Mars in Sagittarius inspires a global can-do spirit.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22-JANUARY 19 With Saturn, the disciplinarian, as your ruler, you play by the rules and insist that others do, too. Though uncomfortable with displays of emotion, you're a loyal and generous friend. You are naturally resourceful and, short of compromising your principles, will do what's necessary to succeed. Now if you loosen up and have fun, life will be wonderful

Your Year Ahead Saturn ends a two-and-a-half-year stay in your work and health sector on June 4, so take care of any physical ailments before then. After June 5 a friendship could suddenly turn serious. Why resist? You're tired of going it alone.

Your Month The sun and moon join forces in your sign, giving you a surge of energy. Use it to initiate projects and start a fitness routine. If you're single, it's time to forgive past hurts and open your heart. Consider: Delays are opportunities to rethink goals.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18 Bosses or authority figures may be demanding this month. Ease the pressure by accepting social invitations from close friends. You'll be well placed to take advantage of opportunities. Around the 18th you could be extra sensitive with coworkers. Your challenge: Choose your response wisely.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20 The new moon in Capricorn on the 2nd inspires you to get more organized. It's time to put into practice all you've learned from meeting new people and experiencing new places. You're realizing that a change in perception is needed for you to achieve your goals. Spiritual tip: Love is all around you.

ARIES March 21-April 20 Wait until after the 18th to close a deal or start a new project. As Mars boosts your confidence, the urge to travel and escape the mundane will be very strong. At mid-month, communicate your feelings to people you care about. Misconceptions can be cleared up now. Good news: Your personal magnetism is high.

TAURUS April 21-May 20 You may not want to give in to someone close, but it helps to consider another point of view. With Mars in your partnership sector until the 18th, be patient with your loved one. You'll realize you have what it takes to face a challenge. Make that phone call, write that letter, let your emotions flow. Advice: Put family first.

GEMINI May 21-June 20 You may feel you need space in a relationship, but this mood will pass. Use your gift for words to be clear but compassionate. On the 18th review finances and plan to increase your income. Remember: What you focus on grows.

CANCER June 21-July 22 Now's the perfect time to reflect on promises made six months ago and rethink goals. With the new moon in your partnership sector on January 4, you may start a relationship or change the rules in an existing one. Your task: Be true to your ideals.

LEO July 23-Aug. 22 With Mars energizing your love and creativity sector at the end of the month, you'll be forthright in love and determined to use your talents. Jupiter, in your sign through next August, adds joy to life. Spiritual tip: Gratitude is powerful.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22 Mars has you beautifying your home and putting paperwork in order. Be patient with those who aren't as organized as you are, and seek out those who are. Around the 18th don't miss social gatherings with people who can help you achieve your goals. Best bet: Teach by example.

LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22 With the new moon in your home sector on January 2, you'll start renovation projects or entertain lavishly. Around the 18th you may need to make peace with authority figures to achieve happiness. Your message: Love yourself unconditionally.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 22 You've recently been preoccupied with finishing up personal projects. Now it's time to go out and sell your ideas. With Mars moving into your money sector, be careful not to overspend or sign contracts too hastily. You'll feel more peaceful than you've felt in months. Remember: Success happens a day at a time.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 23-Dec. 21 Venus and Mars both enter your sign, sparking ideas and the zest to pursue them. And with Jupiter influencing your travel sector, you'll feel a yen for new cultures and distant lands. Through August, people you meet could take you in exciting directions. Rest assured: Nothing's too good to be true.