Astrology Forecast for January 2010

FOR EVERYONE ~ Vision vs. Budget. January is a major turning point. We will all begin implementing the tough decisions we have had to make. Options that are no longer realistic, if they ever were, will vanish. We will all have to work with tight budgets, also. Progress will be a matter of doing something new and different with what we already have. However, January will also make it clear that careful budgeting isn't enough. To succeed, we must work to fulfill a vision of new possibilities. The planets will not support those who only use budgeting to get by until things go back to the way they were, until all this blows over. Your dreams for the future have an important role to play.

SIGN-BY-SIGN

ARIES ~ Accept it gracefully. January brings unavoidable endings and beginnings. Major work and partnership issues are coming to a head. The actions of friends and youngsters are forcing your hand, too, making complex life decisions more complicated. It will be awhile before things settle into a steady, predictable rhythm, but you can make progress more or less comfortably. Feelings of frustration could run fairly high, though, and the wrong words could cause pain. Don't read too much into things. A healing influence will soon start affecting your innermost thoughts and feelings.

TAURUS ~ Ride it out. The times are demanding hard choices and sacrifices. Difficult decisions are being made. Some things are changing forever. But, while others have to take a direct hit, Taurus can take events in stride. You almost have no choice but to persist and pitch in where you can. You are well-placed to positively influence the way higher ups respond to events. Help smooth the transition by adding key bits of advice and information. You might feel powerless, but your contribution is benefiting many. Recent financial pressures will ease.

GEMINI ~ Rumor control. The action isn't in Gemini's backyard. It isn't under your control. The big decisions have already been made, for now. The challenge is to deal with a new and rapidly unfolding situation. Protect yourself and others from the corrosive effects of false rumors and bogus theories about what's happening. They are more damaging than they seem. You will soon be in greater harmony with the forces of change. This will increase your influence and enhance your control over events around you. Financially, you are entering a cycle of consolidation.

CANCER ~ Courage. Your life and your relations with others are being transformed, irrevocably. You can handle it. Others might need some help, though. Few can see beyond appearances or hear the truth behind the words as well as you can. Few can communicate difficult truths as gently as you. Things are even less stable than they seem, however, and you need to help people understand that. You might need to endure hurtful attacks. Say what needs saying. Don't overreact to those who disagree, however sharply. Remaining calm and civil is key.

LEO ~ Complicated times. New policies are being implemented at work. You will also be channeling the turbulent thoughts and feelings of people around you as they cope with complicated events in their own lives. Feelings are running high. Some people are reacting strangely. Strive to be inclusive, supportive and upbeat in all that you say. New, exciting opportunities for personal growth and expansion will soon emerge. You will need to plan carefully to take advantage of them, however. Excess enthusiasm could lead to missteps. The wrong word could cause an uproar.

VIRGO ~ Makeover. You have long had high ideals and a desire to play a larger role in events. But few are born knowing how to play such a role. Idealism and ambition aren't enough. One needs the emotional and social skills that allow people to function effectively in a leadership role. January 2009 will test the progress of your efforts to develop these skills. Your ability, and your willingness, to work effectively with others will be the key issue. Humility and flexibility are more important now than high ideals and ambition.

LIBRA ~ Make it close up and personal. January brings a big change in your home and work life. It's important to take a personal, hands on approach to finding solutions and sorting out details. Work carefully with individuals, establish and nurture relationships. This approach will succeed almost magically. Hands off, top down approaches, drawing flow charts and writing memos, for example, will backfire. A supportive influence is now affecting your long-term finances. Difficulties in this area should ease. The winds of change will soon start affecting your most important business and personal relationships.

SCORPIO ~ Act locally. Community relations are becoming increasingly important and January marks a turning point in your community involvements. Decisions and commitments will be called for. Be at your most diplomatic because feelings will be running high and tempers could easily flare. Rumors and gossip could also play a destructive role. Avoid them. Be attentive to details. Make your contributions specific, concrete and directly relevant. The abstract, general approach will fall flat and multiply problems. Financial and budgetary constraints will soon begin easing. The planets will support more rest and recreation.

SAGITTARIUS ~ Vision vs. Reality vs. Budget. Your hopes are pulling you in one direction, financial concerns in another. January will bring this conflict to the fore. It will not be a question of abandoning your dreams. It will be more a question of how to coax reality in the direction you want it to go in. Use what you have in new ways. Don't expand in directions you can't afford, whatever the temptation. Impatience isn't your friend right now, especially if it involves taking on more debt. It's time to consolidate.

CAPRICORN ~ Trail blazing. January will bring major personal revelations for Capricorn. Your own notions of who you are and what you stand for will change. People in your life will also begin to regard you differently. And you will find yourself at a threshold, needing to find a way forward. True progress will be impossible without an inspiring plan. Good bookkeeping and sound budgeting are crucial, but your vision for the future is equally important, now. Use available resources in the service of new and creative ideas. Reach out into the community.

AQUARIUS ~ Game changer. January will help Aquarius break free of old attitudes and patterns. This will liberate you psychologically and spiritually. It will also give you greater freedom in employment areas. Your circle of influence will begin to grow. You will become more involved and active in the world. People love to tell Aquarians that their ideas are unrealistic. But all those practical people will soon be helpless without your idealism and vision. Sidestep potentially troublesome arguments over irrelevant and obscure issues. Stick to your budget. You can still be innovative.

PISCES ~ New role models. Pisces is officially beginning a new cycle of personal growth and prosperity. The forces of change that transformed your personal identity will soon go to work transforming your place in the economic scheme of things. However, you are entering a new life situation and you'll need to find new paradigms, new mentors - new people to model yourself on. You need to clear psychological cobwebs that have accumulated to overcome professional challenges. Efforts to maintain social habits and relationships that you have outgrown could lead to problems.

Visions Meet Reality, and Each Other

More Thoughts on December 2009

The message of December's charts is similar to the message of November's charts: The shape of the future is heavily dependent on our visions of the future. But there is something we all need to know about these visions that are about to start shaping the future.

In recent years, the planets have supported the development of ideas and belief systems in isolation. Individuals, families, groups, nations have all been allowed to retreat into their own mental universes, to shut out differing views completely. Rates of extreme self-absorption have been at historical highs.

On the macro level, the boundaries between nations with differing belief systems have been heavily militarized. Diplomacy has withered. Isolation and confrontation have become the norm. Nations are drifting toward war.

In December, people, and nations, will begin to emerge from extreme self-absorption. They will come forward with competing visions of the future and discuss those visions. They will apply them in making decisions that shape the future.

Far, far more than in recent months, our visions will have practical effects. They will be re-shaped in discussion with others who hold different ideas. They will also be tested against reality. A time of excessive self-absorption in the world will begin to end. A time of testing new, visionary ideas in the real world will begin.

But because self-absorption often, if not usually, produces distorted, misshapen ideas, we can expect an especially rough ride as these newly emerging visions are tested against each other, and reality. Our shared reality.

The Example of US Health Care Reform

Perhaps the most obvious example of the sort of thing I am talking about is the debate over health care reform in the US. Legislation has languished while people with wildly conflicting views have clashed.

Health care reform would, over time, completely reshape the social, economic, political and economic, and spiritual, landscape of the United States. It would take the entire country in a direction embodied in the vision, or visions, that ultimately shaped the reform bill. And the news has been full of stories about the many malformed visions of the world involved in the health care debate.

In December, health care reform will come up for discussion and, possibly, a vote. People driven by wildly differing visions of the future will try to pass it or kill it. Belief systems and conflicting visions of America's future will be tested against each other. The outcome will be real and concrete and it will affect us all.

I’m sure we can all agree that, no matter what the shape of the final bill, its implementation is bound to have myriad unexpected and unintended consequences.

More Generally

On the micro level people will emerge from their relative mental and emotional isolation. Communication between individuals and groups will increase. People will start looking beyond their small, exclusive social circles. Each of us will emerge from periods of more or less intense self-absorption and try out our newly hatched visions of the world and on each other.

On the macro level, the boundaries between belief systems and the nations who hold them, will, to some extent, be de-militarized. Diplomacy will send out new shoots. Isolation among countries will start to break down. Confrontations will become less acute. Efforts at engagement less futile.

The visions that will guide our steps may not be perfect, but we will have dialogue and reality-testing to help us, something we have sorely lacked in recent years.

The Astrological Details - Dispositor Charts

Uranus in Neptune in Mutual Reception

Astrologers use dispositor charts to reveal the planetary chain of command in a given chart. The dispositor charts for December 2009 are especially revealing.

In the dispositor charts for both the new and full moons in December 2009, Uranus and Neptune are together at the top of the chart, in control. The other planets are all fall beneath them, linked in power relationships that subordinate them to Uranus and Jupiter.

Uranus and Neptune are also in mutual reception, making their influence even greater. They have been in mutual reception since some time in 2003. This relationship will end in the course of the next year or so.

Planets are in mutual reception when they occupy each other's home sign. Uranus is in Pisces, the sign ruled by Neptune. Neptune is in Aquarius, the sign ruled by Uranus. Hence, they are said to be in mutual reception.

As a result, Uranus and Neptune form a mutually re-enforcing, synergistic energy field that combines the influence and the raw power of both planets.

To make matters worse, or more intense, for most of the time Uranus and Neptune have been in mutual reception, their contact with the rest of the Zodiac has been minimal and erratic. Now, for a month or so, they are in complete charge.

Incredible Shrinking Mental Universes

Both planets rule signs, Aquarius and Pisces, that are very influential in the realm of visionary ideas. Hence, this mutual reception would tend to form a black hole for visionary and related intellectual energies. It would tend to draw people into a particular mental universe and isolate them there.

People, groups, nations, anyone who shared similar ideas, would tend to fall into increasingly isolated, insulated, intolerant groups, largely unwilling and often unable to communicate productively with others.

People, groups and nations would tend to get stuck in a mental feedback loop, unable, really, to hear or understand anyone's thoughts but their own. Thought patterns would tend to remain the same, except to get stronger, more intense and rigid with the passage of time.

Individuals, especially Pisceans and Aquarians, would tend to get lost in their own little worlds, cut off from others. Each Sun sign would be affected in its own way, though, and none would completely escape the mentally insulating, isolating effects of this aspect.

Mutual Reception Coming to an End . . .

and Not a Minute too Soon

In December, Uranus and Neptune in mutual reception rule the whole of the new moon and full moon charts, connecting the innumerable and varied mental universes with reality and, in effect, with each other. People will leave the tight feed back loops that nourish their beliefs and actively work to impose their ideas on each other and on events. In the process, they will engage each other on the field of intellectual battle.

But this will happen as the mutual reception begins to break up. Uranus will leave Pisces in May 2010 and retrograde back into Pisces in August. Uranus will leave Pisces for a full transit of Aries in March 2011.

The level of self-absorption, isolation and intolerance in the world will decrease noticeably.

This slow but steady process of mental re-emergence and re-engagement will start off with a bang in December 2009. The world will slowly become a more social place.

Astrology Forecast for December 2009

FOR EVERYONE ~ Clash of visions. This month, again, pits our visions of the future against sometimes harsh realities. The situation is one of extreme flux and it seems very hard to predict, let alone control. Yet there is also a lot of flexibility in the situation. The outcome really will depend a lot on how we envision the future for ourselves and there will be many people promoting their particular vision of the future. The problem is that some visions are realistic and some are not. Visions can also conflict. The challenge will be to decide which of the visions on offer is realistic and which of those that are realistic will work for you.

SIGN-BY-SIGN

ARIES ~ Avoid flash points. You'll need to rethink parts of your lifestyle. The role of at least one key partner in your life will change significantly. Initiatives by friends, children and other loved ones will make adjustments necessary, too. People are being driven by potent new visions for their own lives, but it isn't clear that they have thought through the details of these visions. Keep impatience and temper in check as you work through the details together. Deeper involvement in spiritual and philosophical matters will help you process these changes.

TAURUS ~ Routine. A blizzard of changes are on the way. Uncertainties and unknowns stretch as far as the eye can see. It isn't so much that Taurus needs to sit all this out. It's more that you need to stay the course. Somebody needs to keep up with the routine stuff while people make all the big moves. Right now, that someone is Taurus. Deviating from the slow and steady approach could cause health issues or lead to stress and excessive worry. Achieving long-term financial goals should remain a top priority.

GEMINI ~ Peacemaker. The process of change is penetrating deeply into your life and environment. Important relationships are at stake - personal and professional. People are thinking and acting too quickly as they come to terms with events. Tempers could flare. Help everyone concerned get their ideas across without rancor. The outcome of all this could significantly affect your finances. With respect to finances, you are entering a cycle better suited to consolidation than expansion. However, in the months ahead, you will find yourself in increasingly greater harmony with the forces of change.

CANCER ~ Explain the benefits. There is no question of going back to the way things were. Your livelihood and the livelihood of others depend on making others understand the advantages of new plans and the impossibility of going back. Use your intuition to appreciate the beauty of the new plans and your emotional sensitivity to explain them as delicately as possible. Express yourself calmly and patiently. Harsh words or hasty action will do more harm than you think and they won't prevent the changes. You have more influence than you realize.

LEO ~ Tread as lightly as possible. Leo's the one who must break the eggs to make the proverbial omelets this time around. You need to take the initiative to help yourself, friends, loved ones and others cope with the demands of change. People will disagree with you about what needs to be done. Some heated exchanges are inevitable. High levels of confusion will complicate issues. Be very sure to sort through the concerns of those you upset for any good points and try to find the common threads in everyone's ideas.

VIRGO ~ Embrace your optimism. Much as everyone would love some certainty, right now, there isn't any. That's the reality. But as irrelevant as optimism seems, you can't help but feel optimistic. Maybe that's because you realize just how in tune you are with the forces and processes of change. You sense an underlying unity and direction despite the confusion and upset. When things do begin to solid up, Virgos will be among the first to know. Present alliances and existing assets will turn out to be more important than you think.

LIBRA ~ Vision and objectivity. Considering how complicated and tough the situation is, Librans are remarkably well positioned. The difficulties are manageable. Help yourself and others but be realistic and honest about what you need and what you can contribute. People also need your honest opinion about their own options. Stay focused on the future. People need help developing a realistic, workable vision of the future. You will have to put a lot of complicated and challenging ideas into simple and encouraging words. Schedule more quiet time to process your thoughts and feelings.

SCORPIO ~ Involvement. The realities surrounding you seem harsher than usual and the uncertainties greater. There are viable solutions in the works, though. You know that the solutions chosen will affect your lifestyle as well as those of your family and other important people in your life. Consequently, you will likely find yourself in the middle of the debate. But the devil is in the details and the details can take awhile to work out. You need to make a long-term commitment to implementing solutions. Your participation will be rewarded, and rewarding.

SAGITTARIUS ~ Finale. For Sagittarians the wave of change moving through your life is more of an end than a beginning. Changes will continue, but, starting fairly soon, difficult transitions you may have been experiencing will find happy endings, pretty much. The changes that follow will be less challenging, more harmonious and fulfilling. The focus for the foreseeable future will be on firming up your financial situation. You need to devote your attention to controlling expenses and accumulating assets, long-term. You will need to balance your budget in the coming year, particularly.

CAPRICORN ~ Stirrings. Part of the focus for Capricorns is inward. Personal issues you thought were long settled, or at least long buried, are beginning to require your attention again. As you engage in financial planning, for yourself and others, include resources for spiritual and psychological renewal. Take special care to remain calm and balanced in discussions with higher ups. Issues can be vague and solutions elusive. Higher ups could be more than a little touchy. Still, the overall mood remains one of optimism for the future. Community involvements will soon expand.

AQUARIUS ~ Shift. Aquarians can look forward to major shifts of activity in the coming year. Your income is due for a boost and financial issues should also settle into a more predictable and secure pattern. At the same time, your involvement in community activities will increase significantly. You might need to be a bit self-protective. There is a lot of excitement surrounding issues you are involved with. People you know, and some you don't, could get a little pushy. Tactful silence might be the best safeguard. Shield growing assets against future shocks.

PISCES ~ Stand firm. Be clear about who you are and what you want. Make sure you know where your own best interests rest. You will soon get an avalanche of offers and advice. Many will be very tempting. Don't take any at face value. Your present status might seem modest to you, but it is hard won and easily lost. Pick and choose carefully and negotiate hard. Be very sure that the offer you accept is in keeping with your goals. The wrong involvement could threaten all you have worked for.

November 2009 for Everybody

A Threshold

November 2009 will be an exciting month.

The November 2009 full moon chart interrupts a long series of challenging and sometimes discouraging charts. So many recent charts supported the tearing down of institutions or the break up of the existing order. Many others supported obstruction and delay and endless, confusing debate.

The November full moon chart points to progress and rebuilding, driven by vision, desire and ideals. Visions of possibility will outstrip disheartening realities. Intense, captivating visions of new possibilities will powerfully motivate people. Resistance to change will weaken. Old barriers to progress will fall.

In the recent past, visions of change and reform shattered against stubborn obstacles. This time, vision and desire will prove stronger than the obstacles. Those trying to resist will find themselves in disarray, unable to present a united and effective front.

And let us be clear. We are not talking about reviving, or simply revising old and outdated visions. We are talking about decidedly new visions, visions of a new and different future.

Ongoing change will push us to involve ourselves in the process of change. As we participate in the process of change, we will invariably call upon our fresh, new visions to set the direction of change. We will see the inevitability of change as an opportunity and a reason to pursue our visions.

Visions, Practicality and Determination

However, a new realism will also set in. People will be more inclined to do the hard work and make the hard choices needed to realize their visions.

The negatives in our current situation will not be able to compete with the power of the visions that now grip people.

The scope and complexity of the challenges ahead will become increasingly clear. But this awareness will not discourage us. Rather, it will spur us to action. It will encourage people to express their visions all the more clearly and to pursue them all the more vigorously.

Long-stalled projects will gain new momentum. Forward momentum will increase generally.

In essence, November 2009 marks the threshold between a crumbling past and a future of dramatic reform and renewal. It begins a new route through life, one that leaves behind an old road strewn with stubborn obstacles to change and insurmountable barriers to the pursuit of new visions.

Macro and Micro

Perhaps the most obvious example is the current effort to reform health care. November should see important progress in this effort. A new vision of a reformed and enhanced health care system in the US will take hold and opposition will be effectively swept aside.

But in each of our lives something similar will occur. Some are struggling to straighten out their finances. Some are enduring difficult changes at work. Others are dealing with complex and demanding health or family matters.

Each of us will be caught up by some new vision of possibilities for ourselves and those around us and we will use this vision to power help us through the challenges confronting us.

In each case, also, we will find ourselves feeling a new commitment to a disciplined, long-term effort. We will not simply “fix” some problem, or “eliminate” a bad habit, leaving everything else as is. We will make our lives conform to a new, idealized conception.

Resistance will not vanish, nor will the challenges end. But they will no longer seem as important to us as fulfilling a vision of possibilities. Nor will we be as easily sidetracked by irritations, diversions and minor challenges.

The Astrological Details

The full moon chart for November 2009 is deceptive. One is struck, initially, by the large number of difficult, obstructive aspects and the small number of positive aspects. These difficult aspects are close enough to register on the chart, but not close enough to really dominate that chart.

Mars, Saturn, Sun, Mercury, Moon, Pluto Jupiter and Uranus are all involved in grand squares and T-squares. Meanwhile, Venus is making seemingly modest little trines to Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune. It is also making an ambiguous quincunx to Uranus.

At first glance, this chart *suggests* a month of overwhelming obstacles with only a couple of lightweight facilitating aspects to soften the blow. Closer examination of the chart completely reverses that impression.

The Difficult Aspects

Most of the difficult aspects are close enough to be felt, but felt, for the most part, as background, as influences whose full strength is either already behind us or still some distance ahead of us. They are certainly not strong enough to drown out the effects of the visionary and inspiring Venus/Uranus/Neptune configuration.

The difficult aspects are just not exact enough to be truly worrisome, at this point. The wasteful Mars/Jupiter opposition, for example, is only exact to within 10 degrees. The explosive, warlike Pluto/Uranus square is only exact to within 8 degrees. The rebellious, seditious Saturn/Uranus opposition is only exact to with 7 degrees and it is separating.

The highly destructive Saturn/Pluto square is pretty close. It will be exact near the November new moon. It's destructive effects cannot be discounted, but neither should they be exaggerated. But in this astrological context, I think any negative effects will, at worst, distract us briefly.

In my view, they are more likely to motivate us to positive action than turn us aside from our goal. Indeed, a Saturn/Pluto square, given its destructive effects on established institutions, is more likely to weaken lingering obstacles to change than otherwise and heighten our commitment to our visions for the future.

The Sun and Moon are exactly opposite. However, the Sun and Moon oppose each other every month and most of us survive that just fine.

Inspiration and Practicality

The positive aspects, however, are significantly closer. The Venus/Jupiter trine, though separating, is exact to within 6 degrees. The Venus/Chiron trine, though separating, is exact to within less than two degrees.

The Venus/Neptune trine is the most exact. It is exact to within about 10 seconds (hardly anything) of arc and closing. The Venus/Uranus quincunx is exact to within less than a minute of arc and closing.

The relationship between Uranus and Neptune is especially strong, subtle and rich. There is a nearly exact semi-sextile between Uranus and Neptune. Neptune is stationary direct at the time of the full moon. Uranus will be stationary/direct at the end of November.

This complex mix of retrograde, stationary and forward planetary motion will further enhance and enrich the power of this aspect. When Uranus and Neptune are both direct, the momentum for visionary change will become unstoppable.

Uranus and Neptune are also in mutual reception. They are intensifying, enhancing and complementing each others' power as well as that of the entire Venus/Neptune/Uranus formation.

All of these subtleties add an all but unfathomable complexity to the inspiring, visionary power of the Venus/Neptune/Uranus configuration. Its transformative, visionary power will sink deeply into the fabric of things.

Apart from its involvement in this potent configuration, Venus occupies a highly influential position in its own right. In this chart, Venus exercises decisive influence over Sun, Mercury, Moon, Mars, Saturn and Pluto.

So, the most exact, intense influence in this chart is the link between Venus, Neptune and Uranus. The Venus/Neptune/Uranus relationship will generate all but irresistible visions of new possibilities.

Uranus, in mutual reception with Neptune, and forming an exact quincunx with Venus, will irresistibly and inexorably draw us and our personal visions of the future in the change process.

Finally, Saturn, the planet of order, practicality and realism, is very strongly placed in Libra. Hence, to a greater extent than we have seen in recent times, common sense and realism will prevail as people pursue their visions through a landscape of fading obstacles and challenges that are too far off, as yet, to be truly discouraging.

In sum, the November 2009 full moon chart presents a clear picture. It shows a world possessed by captivating visions of the future, amidst already falling barriers to that vision, and challenges that, though serious and real, are retreating into the past or at some distance in the future. And, at this point, any negatives that manifest will more likely spur us to greater action than block our progress.

Astrology Forecast for November 2009

FOR EVERYONE ~ Promise. November brings three contradictory things. One is a barrage of virtually insurmountable hurdles, obstacles that we must often work hard to overcome. It also brings tremendous inspiration and hope for the future. Finally, it brings the beginning of significant progress after months of delay and uncertainty. We must use the month's inspirational vibes for guidance and the growing momentum to start working through the obstacles toward new goals. The world is in a very fluid state. People are open to new ideas and ready for change. Things we might have thought unrealistic just a few weeks ago now show promise. Opportunities we might not have known existed now beckon us forward.


SIGN-BY-SIGN

ARIES ~ Push comes to shove. November brings a mix of challenges and visions of a brighter future. The challenges are real, but so are the possibilities for a more attractive future. And it is clear that, despite the challenges, the future can be much better than the past. Knowing that will make it easier to convince family and close friends to make needed adjustments and allowances. To enable progress, everyone's expectations must be harmonized with new realities. All must take their share of responsibility to realize future potentials in good time.

TAURUS ~ Persistence and cooperation. Your work situation is growing more challenging as the powers that be cope with economic events beyond anyone's control. Adjustments are unavoidable. You understand the necessary trade offs. You can do more, but you have your limits. Some things will stay the same, but something will definitely have to give. In the end, you will need to change the way you work and/or adjust personal activities so you can continue to function successfully on the job. Visions of future possibilities inspire and motivate you to persist.

GEMINI ~ Maneuverability. You will find yourself less restricted and less upset by ongoing events than others. You will also be better able to use the situation to your advantage. You will find your mind brimming with insights and useful suggestions. People will be in need of your ideas and inclined to take your advice. You could find yourself treading a somewhat more solitary path in days to come, however, as you redefine the meaning of affection and friendship. It is time to start harmonizing your social involvements with your higher aspirations.

CANCER ~ New foundations. The disruptive events of November set off a lengthy and thoroughgoing lifestyle transformation for Cancerians. The material and the philosophical foundations of your life begin to shift simultaneously. You will find yourself envisioning a new way to live and a new place to live in. It will take time and effort to realize what you envision, though. These are the kinds of changes you must make one slow, well-planned step at a time. Most important, you must successfully achieve certain financial goals before you start making firm commitments.

LEO ~ Hard work and politics. Inspiration, enthusiasm and nervous energy are running high. However, realizing the changes you envision will take lots of hard work. The forces of change are affecting key areas of your life, so you have to keep moving forward. Frustration and nervous exhaustion could set in. The trick is to transform the nervous energy into the kind of patience and dedication that is needed. Although it is subtle and indirect, you have real influence over the decision-making process. Improvement in long-term financial areas is around the corner.

VIRGO ~ Shape the future. November brings a mix of tantalizing future prospects and seemingly insurmountable obstacles. You know absolutely that the prospects are realistic. But you also know that if they are to pan out, you'll need to motivate people. Along with this realization will come a seemingly magical ability. You'll be able to reshape the hopes and desires of others in accordance with your own visions of the future. Using such power is risky, but you'll need to if you and others are to overcome the obstacles you all face.

LIBRA ~ Dreams and realities. Visions of ideal romantic situations and other alluring possibilities are potent distractions. But responsibilities weigh heavily. Big financial decisions and economic challenges loom and, truth to tell, energy is a bit low. Enjoy the visions, and the distractions. Let them motivate you and help you choose your goals. But you must settle down and start making the choices that will streamline your existence. It is high time to let go of involvements that only weigh you down. Bring your lifestyle your resources and your goals into harmony.

SCORPIO ~ Strive. The situation is very complex and very simple. Complicated circumstances are, well, forcing you to make lots of adjustments. It is simple because you really just have to do it all. However, if you work it just right, you can move everything in the direction of dreams that are quietly, and secretly, motivating your thoughts. You can create a living situation that is more affordable, more loving and more in accord with your own preferences. Self-healing is a big priority. Stalled financial issues will also begin to move forward.

SAGITTARIUS ~ Planning and leadership. You can see beyond current difficulties. Your visions for the future are turning attractive - and realistic - enough to inspire yourself and others. You can, in fact, influence how others see the future. Your most immediate and important task, however, will be to update your personal goals to suit new realities and your new vision for the future. You also need to consult friends and others in your community. They need help formulating plans. That will help all concerned define goals and devise a good strategy.

CAPRICORN ~ Crunch time. Events are forcing changes in just about every key area of your life. These changes are irresistible and permanent. You do not lack for access, influence or power. You know what there is to know. By now, you have moved beyond easy answers and quick fixes. You are ready for reliable, realistic guidance. You can also help others cope. You understand how today's tough choices will lead to a much brighter future. People need to see that connection and showing it to them will inspire and motivate them.

AQUARIUS ~ Impose order. Aquarius is ground zero for a big release of energy. Positive, inspiring, exciting energies will collide with blocking, challenging energies. For every challenge, there is an inspiring and energizing response. Many stalled issues and projects will start moving forward too, creating opportunities. It will be your job to bring the visions and opportunities together with the challenges to produce progress. The overall effect could be a little overwhelming. You will probably have to lay down some ground rules to handle the traffic. Make time for rest and recreation.

PISCES ~ Momentum increases. "Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy," goes the old song. That is good advice for Pisces this month. You will be talking to people you never thought you'd talk to about thoughts you never thought you'd think. It is past time to break out of old patterns and if this burst of energy doesn't do it, nothing will. This can be a very nervous-making process, though. Schedule some down time. Give it some time. Things will fall together more smoothly than you might think.