Mercury turning retrograde in Pisces spreads confusion, and he’s squaring Pluto. This makes people dig in their heels, insisting they are right (which is usually wrong), or it challenges cooler heads to do research. Venus in Capricorn eases the stress; do your best to be mature and serene.

March 20 – April 18

Avoid silly arguments by focusing on your own problems and cleaning out your baggage. The right balance of humility and confidence, and support from a woman in charge, will help you get ahead.

April 19 – May 20

Dares, challenges and temptations from friends should be considered very carefully, if at all. Better to rely on your usual common sense. If you’re hungry for a new experience, check out local museums or a foreign film.

May 21 – June 20

If you must make any public presentations, double-check every detail, and be prepared to handle any screw-ups with good humor. If you come under attack, look for underlying motives. You could charm an apparent enemy into becoming a very good friend.

June 21 – July 22

You’re better off listening to disputes than participating in them – unless you really want intense criticism. Still, arguments could be educational, and being very open-minded will make you look mighty attractive.

July 23 – Aug. 22

Refresh yourself on safe-sex information and techniques. Make sure to get the info first! Other fun and games are especially risky now. Be very careful of any sort of sporting injury.

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Don’t argue with your partner about problems around the home. Take a creative approach and suggest constructive solutions, even if they’re only a temporary fix. Or agree to start analyzing problems so they can be solved later.

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Most accidents happen around the house, but home looks more like your safety zone now. Still, be careful, and even more so out on the streets. Stay focused when you drive. Don’t let problems distract you!

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

A creative block could have expensive repercussions. Write a letter to a sister or aunt – whether or not you have one, and even if you don’t mail it. The exercise of writing will help you to focus on whatever is hanging you up right now.

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Your natural reaction to problems at home is to stand firm and counterattack. Resist that impulse. Shopping, preferably with housemates, actually helps! Think ahead about what you need, and take your time looking for it.

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Although small disasters abound, do your best to maintain a calm, mature demeanor. Every problem has a solution. Track each one to its roots; consult with whomever you must. The cleanup process will uncover new strengths, and annoyances may then prove blessings in disguise.

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Dig up receipts and records, but let any real work on your taxes wait until late March. Trying to collect on debts from friends can be even more contentious than usual. Let that wait too! Paying your own debts will save a lot of trouble.

Feb. 19 – March 19

Be careful of what you say and where you say it. Your mouth could get you into trouble with the boss or other authorities. Letting off steam and preparing important arguments with friends will help. But avoid those arguments unless they are absolutely necessary!