ArcaMax

At first everything takes forever, every decision is effortful, and constant second-guessing is the norm. But soon enough, choices become automatic, problems look familiar instead of overwhelming, and it's possible to make quick work of tasks. It's not because of some magical process; it's just practice. With enough repetitions, improvement is inevitable.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Your need for validation comes under scrutiny. It is a human social instinct that falls under the category "unavoidable." It will benefit you to get curious. So, whose approval do you seek and why?

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The most intoxicating relationships are the ones that contain an element of uncertainty. If you always know what you're going to get, what you really get is bored. Surprises can be an act of love. Unpredictability will work in your favor.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Brevity will be lucky. Put time constraints on the meeting. Put a word limit on the email. Short messages will get right to the point. The more direct you can be, the better the results. You simply won't leave any room for confusion.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). There are many different interpretations of loyalty. For some it's a "ride or die" quality, and for others it's more like, "I'll choose you if that's what makes sense to me in the moment." It's just something to be aware of today.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The lucky move: get dressed up, all confidence and openness, and meet fresh faces in unfamiliar territory. People will be drawn to you. Savor the attention. You only get to be the new person once!

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Let "no answer" be the answer today. Thinking of today's problem as unanswerable will cause worry, expectation or desperation surrounding an issue to drop away. All that is left is a whole entire world of other things to think about.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). However much help you thought you would need at this point, today proves your estimation was a bit off. Your new assessment will be realistic. You'll put the word out and find just the assistance you need for moving forward.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Someone is attracted to the way you kick back and have fun, but you won't find out who it is until you actually kick back and have fun. Does the mystery inspire you to let up on the work? You deserve a break.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Adventure calls, but today the thrill comes in small doses. A spontaneous detour, curious question or mini exploration will give you more than a grand plan ever could.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You're no stranger to how consistent moves can add up to a rather big deal. You just didn't expect it to happen so quickly! Still, you won't be swept up. Continue to trust steady effort over spectacle.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Ideas are flowing, but only some are worth following today. Trust your instincts and discard the ones that feel heavy or forced. Sharing a fresh thought with the right person could spark a chain reaction. Don't hold back, but be selective with your energy.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). To speak on matters you know very little about is colloquially referred to as "talking out of school," but what do you call it when the "school" itself is woefully misinformed? It's a day to examine even reputable sources, with an ear for bias.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Jan. 17). In this Year of Creative Mastery, you'll be lauded for resourceful wins where you make the most of what's already in reach. You discover that ingenuity outperforms excess. With clever adjustments and timely decisions, you turn modest inputs into meaningful returns. Collaboration fuels momentum. More highlights: inspired travel, healing and closeness in the family tree and sweet, funny companionship. Gemini and Aquarius adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 14, 24, 1, 19 and 38.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Former first lady Michelle Obama recently released her new book, "The Look," a reflection of her fashion, hair and beauty journey, celebrating the moments she lived through her different looks. Whether she's advocating for children, promoting the arts or offering other strategies of optimism, Obama is a beacon of hope. Born when the sun and Mercury were both Capricorn, the sign of power and tradition, her moon, Mars and Saturn are in Aquarius, the sign of humanitarianism and tomorrow.

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