ArcaMax

No one savors disappointment because it's simply not savory. In fact, it's often quite bitter. But as coffee, wine and chocolate lovers know, bitterness has its purpose in the recipe for life. In this bittersweet passage of Venus into Pisces, a closer examination of a past disappointment can prevent a future one.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). The easiest time to share your expectations is at the start of an interaction or right after a boundary gets crossed. Waiting too long can feel awkward, but it's still better to speak up than stay silent. Clear communication makes everything smoother.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Of course you like what's familiar -- it's comfortable and it works. You also get bored if you stay there too long. Today, curiosity nudges you toward the unknown. You don't need courage, just enough interest to see what happens next.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You're so strong and forever showing up for everyone else. It's not wrong to wish someone would take care of you for a change. Whether or not that person arrives, it's safe today for you to soften into a moment that holds and supports you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Balance isn't perfect, but it's possible. A gentle recalibration can reset a relationship so things can continue in a more sustainable direction. A word spoken, a boundary observed or a choice made in the name of harmony will improve the vibes.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You're kind and diplomatic, but that doesn't mean you miss or overlook the mistakes. It's good that you see them all -- yours and theirs -- because each is an opportunity to improve. Make a private note. Strategize before acting.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Expect surprise? That's an oxymoron. The very nature of surprise is that it defies expectation. Still, when the unexpected arrives, yield to it like a kung fu master yielding to an opponent's force, incorporating the momentum into your next move.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You don't require that everyone conform to your expectations. Maybe you don't even have expectations to begin with. That's the best position because then you can really see reality for what it is and accurately assess the potential.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Everything is easier when your head is in the right place, but how do you get there? Like external weather, the internal weather can be unpredictable. Your breath will be like the wind. Deep breathing will blow away the mental clouds and fog, clearing the atmosphere.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You're not expecting trouble, but if it comes, you'd be ready, and this gives you quite a lot of confidence. So even if you never use the "emergency protein bar" or candles in case of a power outage, or the Apple AirTag on your keychain, you'll use the confidence it gives you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You don't have to go invisible to care for others, but sometimes it's not a bad idea. Some players are easier to manage when they feel like the main character. Today, you'll get what you want and need by working behind the scenes.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). A wise part of you is always listening. Old guidance sometimes waits for the right moment. Someone gave you advice you didn't think much of at the time, but now it applies rather directly. You'll act on what you've learned to excellent effect.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You'll be choosing your responsibilities, and that feels different from being asked or told what to do. Even when the work is assigned, you're still ultimately in charge of what you pick up or set down. Those conscious decisions turn obligation into self-respect today.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Feb. 10). Welcome to your Year of Effervescent Moods. This era shows you most often playing in light, breezy, feel-good tones in a life filled with reasons to be delighted. Relationships give back, meet you in joy and offer you real help. Work challenges you just enough and has you doubling down on what you're best at. More highlights: Your generosity changes a life, epic gatherings are had and family karma is healed. Leo and Scorpio adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 7, 40, 2, 28 and 8.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Aquarian actor, director and producer Elizabeth Banks stars in the upcoming AI thriller "DreamQuil," set in a not-too-distant future. Science fiction, technology and social concepts that ponder what it means to be human are at the heart of the Aquarian ethos. Banks' natal chart, dominated by six air signs, indicates a lofty IQ, complemented by the attractive modesty of Venus in Capricorn.

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