2008: The Year Ahead

1.5.08

Happy new year, everybody.

I must admit, I'm not exactly glowing with the new year's spirit… basically because the hangover of Mars retrograde into 2008 doesn't particularly lend itself well to that feeling of freshness.

Still, I thought you'd all appreciate me repeating what I did last year and posting the 'year ahead' horoscopes I authored for FAMOUS Magazine in Australia. (Click here for the 2007 version.) As I told you already, because these were written for a mainstream celebrity-lifestyle publication, the tone may be different (i.e., simpler, more gender-specific) than what you're used to on this site.

You will find short summaries for each of the 12 signs, along with specific forecasts for Love, Career and Money. Enjoy!

ARIES

In 2008, you Aries have the chance to move closer than ever to achieving your goals. With enough hard work, you'll earn greater respect and recognition in your career or community. But in order to score the biggest gains, you have to tame your impulses a bit. The race to success is a marathon, not a sprint. You could easily burn out (or burn an important bridge) if you don't manage how your fiery energies are expressed. This also means listening closely to your body. If you want to stay healthy and strong, you need proper nutrition, exercise and rest. And don't forget to factor in all the surprises that are bound to happen. Part of your lesson in '08 is to expect the unpredictable—and not blow a fuse every time something doesn't go according to plan. Hold steady, no matter what. One thing you can always control is your reaction.

Love

Because you'll be generating lots of exciting opportunities in 2008, you need a relationship that helps you relax. Look to guys who make you laugh, not cry. If the drama starts to take over, move on. You've got too much going on for a downer dude to hold you back. Ignore meddling friends with unreliable gossip in January. Don't believe anything unless you see it with your own two eyes. April's got you turning heads—though you might not notice it's happening, if you're wrapped up in private emotional stuff. June's your best month to be the pursuer. But are you going after the right type of men for you, or merely repeating the same bad patterns? You'll get an answer by July. September and October put the focus on examining your relationship habits. This is your time to show him exactly what you want. Talk is cheap, if your deeds don't match up.

Career

2008 is a fantastic career year for Aries, thanks to the dynamic duo of Jupiter and Saturn. You'll enjoy a wider range of possibilities, and the necessary discipline to take advantage of 'em. Bored with the same old routine? Hang in there, even when you start to fidget. The strides you make in '08 are setting you on a longer-term course of continued growth. An important door opens wide in February, but don't storm right through it like a hungry wolf. Act casual, and ask for lots of opinions. March could have you wanting to jump ship. Think through the potential consequences first. Buckle down and be responsible in July and August. You'll get a ton accomplished, if you concentrate on each task rather than the whole long list. A smooth November feeds into a very productive December, ending your professional year on a major high note.

Money

You mustn't let money worries stop you from expanding your horizons in 2008. What feels financially risky now will set you up for a more fulfilling life later. Isn't that worth taking a chance on? As the year begins, you'll still be sorting out lots of dangling details from '07 (unpaid bills? bounced checks?). You may not find resolution until March—and if you have to suck it up and take help from your family, so be it. April gives you some freedom to reorganize your money management. If someone else is way too involved, consider declaring your independence. May's an excellent month to work some overtime, sell your spare-time crafts at a weekend market, or ask for a raise. There's no untangling yourself from a complicated money matter in October. See it all the way through, and the ultimate result could pleasantly surprise you.

TAURUS

Are you ready for your close-up? You'd better be. You Taureans have hidden out long enough, and now it's time for your big comeback. 2008's all about reintroducing yourself to the world, in all your proudest splendor and glory. No more staying home and watching TV every night! No more keeping quiet, just because it's easier! And absolutely no more playing it safe! At first, you might have to force yourself to go out and have fun more often. But don't worry—with enough practice, you'll get used to it again. Like watering plants or feeding the cat, your own joy is a duty that's not optional. The better job you do at basking in this sense of adventurous delight, the more appealing you'll be to all the guys. What man doesn't want a girl who loves life?

Love

Love is serious business, right? Especially with tough-guy Saturn in your love house for all of '08. You mustn't settle for less than a true connection, just because the relationship is stable. You should feel a full-body flutter whenever he touches you. Hold out for the real deal. Hassles in January may have you asking if the relationship's worth it. If it is, try harder to see his side. If not, quit wasting time. Widen your social scene in March, when you could meet someone at a type of party you wouldn't usually attend. Cook a special dinner for your sweetheart in May. Your allure will dazzle best in a private setting. July's the time to be bolder in your approach—but selective in your choice of guys. Pick well, and you'll enjoy his company all through August. October is good for putting nuts-and-bolts work into the relationship. If you skip the hard parts, they'll dog you into November.

Career

Are you fumbling through the career zone? Don't fret, Taurus. Your situation in '08 is actually better than it appears, though you'll have a hard time seeing it clearly. Everything's happening for a reason, even the upsetting parts. If you can't take your "respectable" job anymore, consider heading toward a more creative profession. There's no harm in veering off the path. Your mind's really scrambled in January and February, when you shouldn't try to make any major changes. March is a far better career month—if you're willing to follow intuitive logic over so-called facts. Do you want to be happy, or right? Pour your heart and soul into your work in August and September, and worry about what it all means later. If tasks need to be redone in October, don't take it personally. During December, you'll get a distinct taste of what the future holds.

Money

You mustn't judge your 2008 financial outlook on the way '07 ends up. You'll start the year embroiled in stressful dealings left over from last year. And it could take another couple months to get the final details squared away. Don't back down from what you know is right, just because someone puts persuasive pressure on you. You'll have to live with your decision for a long time. The money situation finally lightens up by May, when you can get a whole new income stream flowing. Allow several weeks to work out the kinks, before the dust settles later in June. The end of '08 offers you an opportunity to enter negotiations with a wealthy individual. This is your chance to fix past mistakes made in similar circumstances. Do a lot of listening first.

GEMINI

2008's the year for you Geminis to cope with whatever serious situations you've been postponing for a while. Doesn't sound like much fun? Actually, it's far easier to confront your dissatisfaction than ever before. To pursue your own dreams, you might have to break away from family pressures. Do so lovingly, letting them know you must live for yourself now. Though their feelings may get hurt at first, they'll eventually come to understand. Reward yourself for accepting the challenges with an exciting faraway trip, a healing retreat, or a return to school to study what really interests you. As you put order back into your emotional life, your romantic relationship will naturally deepen—or drift away. Whichever way it goes is for the best. With everything in '08, there's no use holding onto the past, if it no longer serves you. A new chapter is always ready to begin.

Love

How intense will you let it get? In 2008, you'll find out exactly where your limits in love lie. You could go further in than ever before, for greater intimacy than you thought possible—or you could uncover a darker side to your guy, and opt to cut your losses. Turbulence from late '07 spills into January, as you and your honey clash over who's right. (The real answer? Neither of you.) Things get sorted out by February. Pledge together to put it all behind you. June's a thrilling month to cruise the scene for a new crush. Keep it casual, to counteract the heavy vibes in other parts of your life. The climate's superb for falling head over heels in September, when every last detail of the story feels epic. During November and December, you'll discover which dynamics between you two actually work—and don't work. If you want it to last, accept the good and the bad.

Career

You're your own biggest career obstacle in '08, if you refuse to gamble your safe reputation for what would truly satisfy you. Aren't you tired of pleasing everybody else? Conquer the fear, and give your zaniest dreams a shot. It's far better to try and fall short than to be left wondering what could've been. Bravely throw yourself into the running for a risky promotion in March. Even if you don't cinch the gig, the whole process is good practice. By April, you should have no problem talking up your talents. Don't be shy. A show of confidence can make all the difference. Personal concerns in August could pull you away from fully focusing on work. Keep your bosses in the loop, instead of trying to cover your tracks. Otherwise, they'll just think you're slacking. October is definitely your strongest career month, granting you both the charm to attract attention and the goods to back it up.

Money

Share, and share alike. That's your money mantra for 2008, since your best bets come from joining financial forces with your sweetheart or a solid business partner. Lay out your strategy in February, when the time's right to cement a partnership. Though you may trust each other, get everything in writing. When you shift gears to more selfish concerns in March, reassure other parties you haven't forgotten about them. Once they see the payoff in April, they'll understand why you did what you did. July's an extremely fruitful month, since you'll earn as much as you're willing to work for. Don't overdo it, though. Your family needs you, too. Recommit to your collaboration in November, if you're happy with the results so far. But if you aren't, ditch the other person, and find someone more suitable.

CANCER

How do you behave in your closest relationships? That question takes center stage for you Cancers in '08, as you explore a different manner of balancing other people's needs with your own. Are you carrying out your sweet deeds because your man actually wants what you're giving? Or because it makes you feel better to do for him? And are you getting all the love and support you require? These interpersonal issues go beyond the romance zone, as they affect your friendships and your work life, too. If you want to satisfy both parties, it often involves more outright discussion—and fewer assumptions—about each other's desires. Happily, 2008 should bring many inviting chances to test out these new practices. No matter if new boyfriends and best mates show up or old ones move on, it's all for your ultimate growth.

Love

2008's the year when your love life moves to center stage. If you're already sharing your life with someone, you could joyfully discover a deeper side to the pairing—or finally see its problems. And if you're single, you'll likely do a lot of thinking about why. Channel those thoughts into real steps you might take to meet new people or find different ways to connect. February's a golden month to relax into togetherness. Plan a romantic weekend, and spend hours enjoying each other's company. March could sizzle, if you two blow off your pent-up steam in the bedroom, instead of fighting. Going out with your girls throughout June and July will make it extra-easy to mingle with the freshest faces. They'll be scoping you, too. Make a giant splash in October. Go over-the-top with your look. Just don't lose yourself in all the excitement, once November comes. You have plenty of time to get to know him better.

Career

Focus on building strong relationships with colleagues and co-workers, and your professional life will naturally flourish in '08. But that doesn't mean taking on someone else's workload, while they keep the credit. Your under-the-surface bitterness will leak out, sooner or later. Strive for 50/50 in all your team projects. In January, you'll still be untangling crossed wires and fixing annoying errors from the prior year. Your big surge of forward momentum won't come until March. It continues into April, when you may feel like diving into something more ambitious. You'll succeed best by keeping communications clear with your closest ally. Stay on top of your calls and emails in July and August, when consistently checking in with everybody is essential. The tail end of the year brings the most career action, but it's more about accomplishing mounds of work than getting lots of attention. Keep it together in December—your spotlight time isn't far away.

Money

In 2008, your financial picture won't be as grim as it has in recent years. In order to maximize this upswing, you need to pool your resources with others you trust. That means accepting help when it's offered—and not keeping score of every kind gesture made on your behalf. The bucks flow in March, but you mustn't let pride block your path to profitable partnerships. If they know better, give 'em the lead. Volunteer to assist a friend in May, and your obvious hard work could bring an unexpected bonus. July resurrects an old money issue, some debt you owe or a long-forgotten payment due to you. Be fair to others, while looking out for you. Got extra cash? Invest in your home during September. December's another month for good financial luck through joint ventures. Don't go into anything without a sidekick.

LEO

After a challenging couple years, you Leos are finally returning to your full splendor—and that's definitely reason to celebrate! Now that you've trimmed the excess crap from your life, this new leaner-and-meaner you is ready to refocus your efforts in 2008. Energy previously spent on private emotions must now be channeled into practical, real-world work. If you're not feeling productive or regularly appreciated in your job, it may be time to look elsewhere. Happiness starts with good daily habits. Spend '08 putting together the building blocks of a healthy routine. (And that includes watching where you're money goes!) Your relationship life is still under Neptune's spell, which brings out your idealistic side to the max. When love calls, anything is possible—if you put your ego second, and show him you're willing to compromise. Beware of choosing a "fixer-upper" guy who you think you'll be able to save. That's a dangerous path to tread.

Love

Throughout 2008, you've got a rather upbeat perspective on love. Differences between you and your honey seem to disappear, while you grow closer. But don't forget you're still two individuals with separate lives. You single Leos will see the good in every guy—even those you have no business messing with. Get to know new crushes slowly, instead of jumping in. Give your man a break in January, if he wants to hang with the dudes. It's not a sign of how he feels about you. March is the month to escape the stressful world together, just the two of you. Watch out in June, when you might not see how strong you're coming on. July brings you lots of flirty attention, but some guys may get the wrong idea about you. Keep a gal-pal close. From October onward, your love life is hoppin' with activity. Be clear about whether you're looking for fun times or a serious commitment.

Career

Your 2008 professional life isn't about gaining widespread notice or earning big honors (though nothing's stopping those things from happening). Instead, concentrate on your day-in, day-out relationship to your work. You can only achieve the most ambitious goals with consistent sweat. A few quick strokes of the magic wand just won't cut it. Spend February burying your head in the nitty-gritty of it, moving through piles of papers and knocking out busy-work. Enjoy the perks in May, when you'll be rewarded fairly for what you've done so far in '08. Don't take "no" for an answer during June, when your sheer will can move mountains. Ease up in July, when you shouldn't have to try so hard. In November and December, you'll actually want to put in the overtime required. The more you give, the better the whole workplace's final product—and the fatter your paycheck.

Money

2008 is not the year for extravagant purchases, if you want to stay out of the poorhouse. Squirrel away a chunk of change each time you get paid, and you'll be glad you did. You might need to fight the influence of a big-spender boyfriend or gal-pal, if they want you to blow more than you can afford. Remind yourself to be responsible in March, when your desire to be part of something bigger could blind you. Find another way to participate other than a financial investment. July's the month to create a budget. You might be surprised at how much easier it makes your life. Stay independent in August, when it's smarter to take care of yourself than get involved with others. Put some money into your home during October. Shop for items that'll be valuable for years to come.

VIRGO

In case you haven't already noticed, the outlook for you Virgos is decidedly different than it was just a year ago. Now that taskmaster Saturn has settled into your sign, it's definitely time to buckle down and get serious in '08. Luckily, most Virgos don't mind a little hard work—especially when it pays off with greater self-confidence and a clearer focus. 2008 is the year to tighten up your life, setting strict guidelines for what does and doesn't support you. If something ends up in the "doesn't" category, cut the dead weight loose. And that goes for relationships, too… both romances and friendships. As you concentrate on being your absolute best, those who don't applaud your efforts aren't doing you any good. Besides, your romantic life should be fun. If it feels more like a chore than an adventure, find a way to liven things up—or look for more excitement somewhere else.

Love

You've got tons of activity in your romance sector in 2008, so there's absolutely no excuse to be bored. You have so much work in the other areas of your life. Love should be the one zone where you let loose. If you're partnered off, your relationship must give you plenty of personal freedom—otherwise, expect conflict. And if you're single, '08 promises lots of possibility. But you've got to put yourself out there, or nobody will know you're available. In March, a craving for something outrageously different may be too tempting to resist. So why try? The passion will continue intensifying into April. Do whatever it takes to look out for your interests in July, as long as you're upfront with everyone involved. If you're not, it'll come back to bite you by August. Casual fun in November may develop into more during December, as long as you don't freak about the feelings it stirs.

Career

Your 2008 professional life will reflect exactly what you put into it, though nothing will come without plenty of elbow grease. The more sweat on your brow, the greater the recognition you'll receive. The year starts out with a few headaches, as you struggle to get to everything on your plate. (And the power struggle going on beneath the surface doesn't help matters either!) Give the situation until the end of February to iron itself out. By then, you'll know whether it's fixable. May and June could feel crazy, like too many balls are up in the air. Yet, if you release the illusion that any one person is in control, things will actually turn out better than expected. July's the month to be outspoken, but in a calm and self-assured tone. When December rolls around, volunteer to put in some extra end-of-year hours. You'll gain some good karma points with the team.

Money

Virgos can be known for pinching their pennies, just so they'll be covered in case of an emergency. That's a smart strategy but, taken to the extreme, can leave you with almost nothing to have fun with. Trust your ability to keep on earning, and set aside some cash for a personal splurge in '08. Why work so hard, if you can't enjoy the benefits? Negotiations can get touchy in April. You might have to swallow your pride to reach an agreement. July is a great time to present a plan for future profits—tell like-minded colleagues, and they may go in on it with you. Pound the pavement in September, on a hunt for new customers or a higher-paying position. By October, you may have to sort through conflicting messages about what'll best serve you. The right answer won't tie your dollars to somebody else's performance.

LIBRA

Everyone expects you Libras to be social butterflies, so don't be alarmed if you find yourself wanting to spend more time alone or cuddled on the couch during 2008. The planets are offering you a great chance to gather your thoughts and regroup, in preparation for busier years ahead. And while you're taking a little personal space for yourself, add some comfortable touches to your home, like new furniture or a piece of beautiful art. If you'll be hanging out there more often, you should make the most of it! But just because you retreat from sight some in '08, that doesn't mean you're out of luck romantically. On the contrary, with Neptune still working magic in your house of love, your dream guy might show up after all—just not quite as you'd pictured him. Don't get so attached to your fantasy that you miss the real-life man right in front of your face.

Love

There's no shortage of romantic intrigue coming at you in '08. But that's not the only ingredient for a successful long-term coupling. Why rush into a commitment? If you're enjoying yourself now, don't cave into pressures to move ahead too quickly. Once you say "I do," the honeymoon could end. If a dramatic meeting stirs things up in February, you'll still be riding the high into March. Only once April arrives will the rose-coloured glasses come off—and show you all the shades of gray. June's an ideal time for an intimate getaway to some exotic destination. The sense of adventure will awaken your passions. If you save up your sexy-and-sassy spirit for one big moment all year, September should be your month to unveil it. You'll be too appealing for your own good. Expect come-ons everywhere you go. Come out of your shell again in December, when an end-of-year party could bring you together with a dazzling new face.

Career

Keep an open mind in '08, as your work zone is prone to unforeseen surprises. If your situation starts changing suddenly, don't fight the tides. While it may feel chaotic at first, you're better off testing out new possibilities than clinging to the same old thing. March is the perfect moment to lunge for a better position—though you'll have to conquer the negative self-talk to emerge on top. Leave old disappointments in the past. Embrace any wacky opportunities that show up in April. You have more to gain than to lose. In July, make sure to share your brilliant ideas with the right people. They won't know how smart you are until you tell 'em. It's okay if you lose your momentum in August. Take it easy for a month. You'll be back up and running faster than ever by early September. Watch for annoying snarls later in September and into October. Double-check your work, or you might make a stupid mistake.

Money

You've got a sharper eye for finances than some people might know, and you can put it to good use in '08. One potential source of big profits for you is real estate. If you've been waiting around to buy or sell a property, 2008 is a great year to do it. Tie up loose financial ends with family members during late January and early February—but make sure everyone's getting a fair deal. May's the right month to enter into joint investments with somebody you trust. Join forces, and you'll both earn more. You're unstoppable in September, so hunt tirelessly for new income sources. October should show some major returns, as long as you're willing to switch up your day-to-day schedule to take full advantage of what's available.

SCORPIO

Many of you Scorpios still don't know your own strength. In 2008, you'll repeatedly find situations where you discover how intense your words can be—for getting you the exact results you want, or for harshly wounding those who stand in your way. Practice speaking your truth kindly, or you'll hurt a lot of feelings, perhaps without even trying. Your friendships are in the spotlight throughout '08, a good year for figuring out who your ideal mates are. That could mean broadening your social horizons, at the same time cutting out certain old pals who you've outgrown. Family concerns also take up a huge place in your heart, as you make big personal sacrifices to keep the house running or help your parents out. If you're estranged from a brother or sister, this is the year to make amends. The benefits will be immense. Your romantic life is still the wild card. Anything (and everything!) can happen, without warning.

Love

It's silly to try guessing what's going to happen next. With rebel Uranus in your love house throughout '08, forget about your relationships being "normal" or "stable". At least you'll never be bored. Want to stay coupled off? Keep it exciting, instead of settling into a routine. Make sure January's squabbles don't get too nasty. You two are simply negotiating boundaries, and it takes trial and error. March is prime for putting yourself way out there, taking crazier risks than usual. Don't let a spoiled-sport girlfriend stop you because it's "not her thing". Relationship life is smooth sailing throughout May and June, especially if you're socializing together with mutual friends. Watch out for misunderstandings that aren't really about anything. By late September, you'll be ready to call the shots. Want him? Grab him. Tired of him? Ditch him. It's your show in October. Be sweet (and not too demanding) to your leading man or bloke-of-the-day.

Career

After a defining career year in '07, you now have a much better handle on where you're going. Chill out a bit in '08, knowing things have settled into a calmer situation. If the past year brought some disappointment, cope with it head-on and put it behind you. In the long run, your whole life's better off because of how it went down. Step back from too much responsibility in February, when your energies are better spent on family matters. Your boss will understand if you need to take some personal time. To make the most of April's upswing, juggle lots of small projects at once. Multi-tasking will keep you from getting too antsy. Practice patience in June, when a familiar challenge resurfaces. Prove to co-workers that you've finally mastered it. July and August could bring dramatic developments. Don't resist the changing tides—management may know something you don't. Work independently in October, so you don't step on any toes.

Money

During the past year, you hosted good-luck Jupiter in your house of money. Are you richer? Or did you merely realize how much more you're capable of spending? Build on the knowledge you gained in '07, to make 2008 the year you assign the proper cash amounts to the appropriate categories. Pay essentials first. Then, be extravagant. January holds great financial promise—if you can bear the annoying people you have to deal with, in order to collect. Find ways to put your foot down, without causing an all-out war. In May, you could discover some math errors that suddenly give you more or less money to work with. Take your time deciding how to respond. The solution will become obvious by mid-June. The real potential for wealth hits in November and December, when you should seek a salary boost or a higher-paying job. Be confident, but not cocky.

SAGITTARIUS

2008 represents a major turning point in the lives of Sagittarians. After an absolutely insane '07, you're finally ready to accept that everything needn't be so complicated and over-the-top. This year, you begin that wise process of creating more lasting security for yourself. While it may not sound particularly glamorous, you know it's long overdue—and the relief you'll feel from planting both your feet on the ground is definitely worth the restraint. Think hard about your future, and make a few practical decisions that'll serve you well later. You shouldn't count on anybody else to take care of you forever. As you've already learned, relationships come and go. But thankfully, you have everything you need to build a solid foundation for yourself. Believe you're capable, and those around you will believe it, too. If you need help figuring out just what makes you special, ask your friends. They'll gladly tell you.

Love

Romantic drama hits a slowdown in '08, which is perfect for settling snugly into a calm relationship—but disappointing if you want to ride the wild-and-crazy dating waves. You won't be without interesting love prospects. Yet, you can't continue playing just for today. Tomorrow's important, too. Relationship issues from late-'07 extend into the new year, as you're still faced with a difficult decision between your own headstrong behavior and what your man wants from you. Are you willing to make the sacrifice? Fallout from your choice lingers through March, when you're either getting more deeply involved or dividing your stuff. June offers rip-roarin' fun, as long as there are no strings attached. But if you're already involved with someone else, don't do anything stupid. From mid-October onward, you're back in the driver's seat, with a powerfully attractive vibe goin' on. Why waste it on undeserving guys? If you find one who's definite boyfriend material, make him yours.

Career

When it comes to your professional life in '08, you'll need to push yourself super-hard, if you want to reach the top of your game. You have an awesome chance to climb another notch up the ladder—or, if you're not paying attention, to hit a frustrating roadblock. It all depends on how seriously you take your career. Self-confidence is a huge piece of the puzzle, but you also need the actual skills to back up your claims. Otherwise, you'll still be talking big, while the train leaves without you. February threatens to bog you down in confusing details and little mistakes. Maintain a positive attitude, and nobody will mind the delays. The possibilities are limitless in May, when your desire to impress won't go unnoticed. At every turn, go the extra mile. Stay humble and obey the boss during July, and you'll be glad you did by August. Stay in the background throughout October, so you can recharge for a crazy-busy end of year.

Money

Your finances are looking pretty darn good in 2008, thanks to lucky Jupiter lighting up your money house. Just because you'll be able to skim by without much worry is no excuse to get careless. You're way too likely to spend beyond your means, if you're not watching the numbers. By putting in additional effort, you can bank some bonus dough—and build a nest egg for the years ahead. Look for unexpected extras in February, when a correction of a past mistake or some other odd occurrence benefits you. Be gracious, but say little. March could bring tense family dynamics around old money issues. Breaking yourself free may be smarter than fighting for a few dollars. Stay in, and plan on more headaches in July. November and December are winning months. Find holiday-season activities that'll bring in more bucks. Then, share the bounty with loved ones.

CAPRICORN

Capricorns love to hatch long-term plans that take many years to bear fruit. Yet, you often keep your ambitions under wraps, not revealing all you've been thinking until it's ready for public view. Well, let's hope you're ready, Capricorn, because 2008 is a huge year for you to emerge into the spotlight, better than ever. It's time to stop quietly watching—and position yourself as a powerful force to reckon with. No gesture is too dramatic! No idea is too big! You may have no clue how exactly you're going to support your dreams with cold hard cash. But in '08, it's far more important to just believe in yourself. Once you pursue opportunities that line up with your underlying belief system (instead of pretending it doesn't matter what you do for money), the universe will reward you. And 2008 is just the beginning of this longer, deeper transformation.

Love

With so much going on in '08, it could be challenging to find time for it all, especially a time-consuming romance. Nothing's blocking you from love, but you shouldn't sacrifice other big breaks (career, travel, a swingin' social life) just to satisfy a man. If he wants you to pick him over everything else, think twice about the relationship. When good news comes your way in late January or early February, he'd better be happy for you. If not, perhaps you've outgrown him. Wrap up unfinished business in March and April. It's not healthy to hold your tongue. Say what you haven't said, or it'll eat away at your heart. May brings the spice back into your love life—if you make room for it. In July, you'll have to balance your ego with your desire to keep the peace. Maintain reasonable expectations. Look for contentment by year's end, whether you're snugly coupled off or out playing the field.

Career

2008 is your year to expand in new directions, and to squash whatever fears may have stopped you from aiming high. Push the bounds of your comfort zone. Good luck Jupiter is looking out for you in '08, so now's the best time to take the leap. (You'll never know unless you try.) Don't fret if you feel bogged down by hassles out of your control in January. They'll clear up by February, when a breath of fresh air blows into your work life. Watch for frazzled nerves in May. Don't let the small stuff get you all twisted up. Slow down. Late August and early September are jam-packed with energy, driving you to chase goals with total focus. Wrap up this forward offensive by mid-September—then, wait it out. Positive results begin pouring in by November, with clearer signs of what's to come at the very end of December.

Money

Capricorns are supposed to be the bankers and businesswomen of the zodiac. But the events of '08 force you to back off on obsessively watching your checkbook balance—and to put a heap of faith into the miraculous Law of Attraction. (Silence your inner skeptic, and pick up a copy of The Secret.) Wherever you focus your positive thoughts will show growth. February and March give you a few tastes of this money magic, if you listen to instinct over analysis. Make an appealing proposal or request in early May, and someone may well take you up on it. July could bring a long-overdue payback from family or a former associate. Be gracious about issues from the past. Show your gratitude for a great year with extra-generous holiday gifts in December.

AQUARIUS

Life may seem like a big mystery throughout much of 2008, as you Aquarians wander through the early steps of a major growth process. Plenty of new stuff is happening externally, but you're not likely to make much sense of the chaos right away. Can you exist peacefully in this "in-between" phase, before the bigger opportunities come to fruition next year? Though you're not sure where this train is headed, you'll know when it's time to transfer or get off altogether. Enjoy the scenery along the way. Don't fret too much if you notice signs that a certain part of your life—a romance, a job, a friendship—is coming to an end. So much more is in store for you, but it's not quite ready to show itself. Bide your time patiently during '08, taking whatever personal space is required to prepare for living large in '09. Squeeze in some private relaxation now, while you still can.

Love

You've just endured a rather difficult relationship period, leaving you with a well-earned sense of accomplishment to ride into '08. If you made it through with your sweetie, you must celebrate the secure partnership you two have built. Single Aquarians may not know exactly what you're looking for, but you should set proper standards—and stick to 'em. Your man may try to pull you away from your bustling social life in January. Find ways to make him feel special, without ditching out on your plans. The interest you stir up in March may be more than you can handle. It's okay to just walk away. June could bring up familiar patterns you probably shouldn't repeat. That should be easy, since new love options appear around the same time. Balancing your romantic past and future is a full-time job in July and August. December is a lovely month to expect the royal treatment from your man. You deserve to be pampered.

Career

The long-awaited success is on its way, but not before one more year of behind-the-scenes groundwork in 2008. All the ingredients are on the stove. Now they just need time to simmer. If the excitement you whipped up in '06 and '07 tapers off, don't be alarmed. It's just a lull. You'll be fumbling to catch up with unfinished business for the first couple months of '08. But once it's done, it's done. Reorganize your daily schedule in April, to attack your to-do list with fresh eyes. July's perfect for enjoying a vacation from your regular duties. Volunteer to temporarily swap jobs with a co-worker. Learning each other's positions makes everyone more valuable. October gives you a happy glimpse of what's in store next year. Make any necessary adjustments, so it'll be that much better in '09. Don't overreact in November, when a small problem could get worse if you try to "fix" it. Step back, and it'll work itself out.

Money

If you want to achieve the financial freedom you crave in 2008, you first must tie up loose ends still interlinking your money situation with someone else's. A disgruntled former partner or pushy family member may need to be put in their proper place. Handle it calmly, or you'll shoot yourself in the foot. Listen to your intuition in March, instead of caving to pressures from some know-it-all who doesn't actually know it all. Take the insane risk, if that's what you want. Play it conservative in May, so you'll have more to bargain with when you need it. July and August challenge you to be firm with interpersonal boundaries. If somebody won't remain loyal unless you give 'em more money, they're not trustworthy. You'll be pleasantly startled by December's influx of goodies. Just don't be demanding.

PISCES

You Pisces are the hopeless romantics of the zodiac, allowing you to see the absolute best in other people—or only what you want to see, sometimes at the expense of the fuller picture. 2008 promises to help you learn to be a bit pickier, so that you're more particular about who you spend your time with. Want a way to figure out who's who? Here's a hint: If you have to withhold a part of yourself to "make it work," it's not really working. Your own independence is more important that meeting some guy's standards. A healthy relationship will support you in taking huge personal risks, not keep you holding tight for a future reward that might never come. Today is all you've got. Take full advantage of it in '08, and surround yourself with daring pals who'll convince you to do the crazy stuff.

Love

If you want romance to flourish in '08, you'll have to put more conscious work into it. Ignore the idealistic voice telling you that true love shouldn't require any effort. A lasting relationship requires plenty of down-and-dirty negotiation, if you actually want to share your whole life with him. The Moon's eclipse in February begs you to put a past heartache behind you, once and for all. Need help moving forward? Ask a friend to fix you up. Later in March and into April, the desire for excitement heats you up. Just make sure your wild behavior doesn't hurt anybody. Be a responsible partner throughout July and August. (Remember: Boundaries are a good thing.) By September, start getting deeper with the guy you can't stop thinking about. Watch for career commitments to distract you in November. Strike a balance and schedule some date time too, or he's going to feel forgotten.

Career

Hopefully you reaped some good growth opportunities in 2007, a banner year for your professional development. To continue growing in '08, you've got to spread the word about yourself to everyone you know (and even those you haven't met yet). Your key to big career moves is to network more actively than ever before. It's time to get over your fear of talking up what you do best. January could bring some good news later in the month—if you can hold tight and squelch the urge to go off on your boss. May's your perfect month for tackling tons of the unglamorous chores. Do the dirty work, and by June, you'll feel way more organized and on top of things. August threatens to be topsy-turvy, pitting interpersonal commitments against your own needs. There's no wrong choice, as long as you make your decision very clear. November is your powerhouse period, so don't let it pass without demanding some recognition.

Money

2008 may start off shaky in the money sector, with your financial ruler Mars still tangled up in retrograde. It's understandable if you're rather anxious, but don't allow your nerves to make matters worse. Give the situation a few months to work itself out. Your bank balance will be on its way up in April—as long as you don't blow all your cash on too many fun (and overly lavish) evenings. Be diplomatic in September, when your financial fate is intermeshed with someone else's. Treat them delicately, since your wallet depends on it. December brings word of a good deal from a friend or teammate. Go in together, and you'll all share the risk.


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