Saturn square Mercury would normally bring out everyone’s inner critic, but with Saturn in Virgo and Mercury in Gemini, bitchy outbursts are to be expected. If you’re feeling brilliant, write it down and think twice before saying it aloud. Take a long view and look for opportunities for self-improvement.

March 20 – April 19

Stay focused on work. Any personal remarks, especially about colleagues, are sure to get you into trouble. Your critical analyses and recommendations for improvement are probably a bit off the mark, but at least they show you’re paying attention.

April 20 – May 20

Avoid gambling and investments in any game play strictly for funsies. Focus on developing skill at your sport or hobby. That’s an uphill slog, too, but something that’s just fun now can have practical value down the road.

May 21 – June 20

If you get any criticism from family or roommates, thank them for sharing and think about what they say. There may be something to it. Responding in kind will only start an awful argument.

June 21 – July 22

Pay attention where you’re walking or driving. Distractions inside your own head can cause awful accidents. Be aware of your surroundings, and you can find better ways to bang up against someone.

July 23 – August 22

You’re inclined to be very critical of someone’s political values, so why not focus on your own? In this era of diminishing resources, we all need to step back and re-think things. Brainstorming with friends will help you update your perspective.

August 23 – September 22

The sharp edge of your wit is very much in evidence. Keep it focused on practical matters and attention to your own health and well-being. When tempted to speak of others, make extra effort to keep it kind and constructive.

September 23 – October 22

There’s always room for self-improvement, but don’t beat yourself up with your faults, which you’re now likely to exaggerate anyway. A creative focus for your inner critic could help you to be more realistic.

October 23 – November 21

As your brain races around sex, you may want to look beyond simple gratification. That has its time and place, but think seriously about your relationships and what you’d want to be doing – and with whom – in 20 years.

November 22 – December 20

You will get into arguments. Stay focused, principled and respectful. The way you press your point can earn you a great deal of respect. Stay clear on details and graciously accept correction when it’s appropriate.

December 21 – January 19

Take it slow and easy. Pay attention to details and you’ll have fewer accidents and arguments at work. Sex seems a great release for stress, but is it really? Focus on what’s important at work and at play.

January 20 – February 18

You may be losing yourself helping others, and fun may feel more like work. An analytic approach to techniques of craft, sport and/or pleasure reconciles the latter. Being ruthless and selfish for a bit is now good for you.

February 19 – March 19

Domestic criticisms are nearly inevitable. Being self-critical will help keep you out of arguments, but give yourself credit as well as blame. Your partner’s shortcomings on that score are highlighted because of your focus. If you must say something, be kind and gentle!