Even though socially you'll express your individualism in as many ways as conditions permit in the year ahead, when it comes to your workaday world, you might need to acquiesce to other people's thinking when it's the smart thing to do.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) -- When there is justification, it's commendable to praise another. However, if you're doing so for less noble reasons, such as getting a favor out of someone, it's likely to backfire on you.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) -- Don't let someone who has trouble managing his or her own financial affairs take care of a money issue for you. If you acquiesce and let this person do it anyway, you'll be sorry.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- If you're having a difficult time making a decision, forgo taking a leadership role. Let someone else who seems to have his or her head on straight call the shots.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- It's one thing to help out a pal who is overwhelmed with work, but don't saddle yourself with a friend's burdens merely because he or she can't be bothered to handle them on their own.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- When becoming friendly with a new group, watch out for one member who is somewhat unpopular, and for good reason. She or he might try to glom on to you and drag you down as well.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Someone with whom you're closely affiliated might be able to put on pretenses and get away with it, but that doesn't mean you can. The best rule to follow is to simply be yourself.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Just because you haven't heard from a pal who is close to your heart for some time, it doesn't necessarily mean that he or she isn't interested in keeping in touch. Circumstances could have this person tied up.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Money in itself is not evil, but the love of it can sometimes cause people to lower their standards and do things that they shouldn't. Don't you be one of them.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Don't single out one person in particular to be nice to just because you want a favor that, chances are, you won't get anyway. You'll go further being amiable to everyone.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) -- Beware of any involvement that is off limits, such as an illicit romantic encounter. It might be flattering to be wooed, but it'll create complications you don't need.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) -- An insincere person might try to manipulate you by attempting to make you believe that what he or she is asking of you is for your best interest. If you're smart, you won't take the bait.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- If by chance you are feeling a powerful inclination to be the center of attention, don't do anything silly. All eyes will be focused on you all right, but not for the reasons you think.

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