We often think we are making choices, but when we're merely doing the logical thing, or the thing everyone else is doing, it's less of a choice and more of a semi-automatic and typical response. Choices feel different. They take effort. They are motivated by something deeper than the environment or the social flow, and the Venus change to intuitive Scorpio suggests they will have remarkable outcomes.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). The good thing about the bad experiences you've had is that they taught you what you should avoid next time. This week brings several "next times," and you'll proudly make new choices. To live boldly is to try the untried, open different doors and taste another side of life.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You'll get the win, though not right away. Just because you fail at an endeavor, it never means that you yourself are a failure, only that something didn't work. There will be a mismatch to blame — the wrong tool for the job or an ineffective intensity level. Without fuss, you'll try it another way until the right things click.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You are at your best with people who see you the way you like to be noticed and bring out the side of you that you most like to inhabit. When you can't be with these people, you will surround yourself with admired ones from the realm of media. These influences sharpen your humor and polish your style.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). There's help for whatever you need; you only have to ask. Talking out an issue will lessen its impact on you. If it doesn't, you may not be talking to the right person. Keep seeking good company. With people who get you, you'll always end up in a better place than you started, and you'll have the chance to give back, which feels so good.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). There are times we need to distract or fool ourselves to do the work of being human. There are risks we wouldn't take if not for some amount of delusion to keep fear at bay. So don't be too quick to judge yourself or anyone with a distorted view of the scene. Reality is different for each, and we all have plenty to learn.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Your intent to hone a skill will work out better than you anticipated. Trust your teacher and follow through with all lessons. You'll not only learn what you need to know to work more efficiently, you'll also produce a better result, and all who participate will be satisfied, if not over the moon about how you helped.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Your body has an intelligence that serves you on a primal level. Its mysterious wisdom often shows up when there's an important decision to be made. This week, there will be a dozen options before you, but you keep noticing a certain one. Your senses are informing you of your body's preference.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). A person who makes the same wrong turn twice is likely to make it more times because of the groove that's established with repetition. This week puts you at a critical juncture for getting onto an exciting trajectory. It will really benefit you to stop and plan your next move, then execute it slowly, making sure to get it right.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You'll notice awkward and shy feelings and you'll diminish them with warmth and humor. You'll witness a slow-leaking pain stop the flow by putting a piece of yourself into it. Your method of fixing things will be unorthodox and effective. Just don't forget to use them on yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You're getting better at turning your kindness inward. It doesn't make you soft; it makes you more powerful. It takes strength to be kind. You allow for your feelings, knowing they don't define your entire self. You'll treat yourself with the patient compassion you would offer to a friend in a similar situation.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). The term "problem" carries a negative connotation, but in a math textbook, a "problem" is merely an equation awaiting a solution. Approach your life's challenges with a similar mindset, as a puzzle to figure out. You'll seize the opportunity to strengthen yourself and gain friends and fans in the process.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Understandings will happen on many levels, some quite shallow, as not everyone is on the same wavelength. Then there are those who think listening entails waiting for their turn to speak. You won't take it personally, as excellent communicators can be rare. You'll find them, though, and you'll be one of them, too, and enjoy the many perks of true connection.

THIS WEEK'S BIRTHDAYS: A year of gentle surprises and breathtaking twists. You've a sensor for fun and a heart for duty. With this combination, you'll find fulfillment in the projects and relationships you take on. An investment will keep building through the months and ultimately pay off years from now. This is a critical time for keeping the faith. More highlights: invigorating companionship, a peaceful knowing that you're doing right by your people, a team win and an acceptance speech for the ages.

Holiday Mathis' debut novel, "How To Fail Epically in Hollywood," is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.

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