Luck could come your way in the year ahead, in some most unusual ways and at some very odd times. At the moment you're ready to throw in the towel, you'll discover the cavalry arriving just in time.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- When making some big plans, if you inconvenience another without his or her knowledge, you will have a lot of unpleasant explaining to do.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- Using excessive flattery to win someone to your side could backfire. You may think that praising the person will do the trick, but he or she will only feel manipulated.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- You could be extremely wasteful with your money when trying to impress another, and sadly it isn't likely to work. The party in question isn't interested in showmanship, just friendship.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- When participating in a social activity that has some competitive elements, don't allow winning to become unduly important. It'll only make you look bad.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Be sure to look at your problems realistically and not through an optimistic lens. If you try to kid yourself, you could do more harm than good in the long run.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Business and pleasure aren't likely to make a congenial mix, especially if you try to make a pitch to someone who is only interested in having a good time.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- In order for any partnership to be successful, both parties must possess a strong sense of purpose. Dealing with a split decision is only likely to spell failure.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Being a bit gullible at present, there is a strong possibility that you could believe everything you hear. Don't allow someone's exaggerations to cause you to feel inferior.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- Lady Luck is likely to treat you in a fickle manner, so it isn't very smart to depend on her too heavily, especially where your gambling urges are concerned. Play it safe.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Because of your inclination to expect more from others or situations than you should, you'll have only yourself to blame if you end up being severely disappointed.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- A behavior pattern that comfortably fits a close friend is not necessarily tailored to suit your requirements, so don't copy it. Live within your own comfort zone.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- You're likely to be rather thrifty when it comes to insignificant expenditures, while at the same time you'll have strong urges to blow your entire budget on something meaningless.

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