August Introduces Your New Normal…

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The astrology of August reflects the fact that we’re all adjusting to a new normal…and it feels anything but normal. As the inner, personal planets (like the Sun, Venus and Mars, mentioned in your horoscope below) begin to interact with Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto in their new signs, we get a sense of the era we’re entering—for better and for worse. One bit of good news you’ll be happy to hear: Mercury retrograde ends on August 11th!

Read both your Sun sign and your rising sign (Ascendant) below. If you don’t know what sign was rising when you were born, you can calculate your birth chart here to find out.

Your ideals may be clouding your perspective. Find a peaceful place where you can reflect on your relationships (past and present). Are they based in truth or illusion? Do they inspire you or confuse you? If you feel disillusioned with a particular bond, ask yourself if you’re playing a victim or martyr role. If one connection has run its course and no longer serves your growth, you might feel ready to let go. After assertive Mars charges into your thinking-and-talking corner on August 6th, you won’t have much trouble speaking your mind and pitching your ideas during the next month and a half. Your brain and everyday interactions will benefit from an extra jolt of energy, and you’ll be motivated to reach out to people and learn. But you could take on an impudent tone, so be careful not to browbeat anyone. When Mars joins forces with inventive Uranus in your network house on the 8th, bold communication can revolutionize your role in a group, your hopes, a friendship or a professional affiliation. Taking a different approach to teamwork and philanthropic goals can pay off. Make a point of connecting with people who share your interests and dreams. But that night’s Mars-Saturn faceoff implies you’re trying to get your ideas or opinions across and feel like they’re falling on deaf ears, especially if your audience is more established or more conservative than you. Maybe you’re trying to get somewhere (literally or figuratively) and you’re frustrated because your path is blocked or your progress is slow. Be patient and don’t give up. Concentrate on what you’re aiming to accomplish. The Full Moon of August 9th requires you to balance your feelings and needs with those of others and might put a relationship to the test. A powerful connection could deepen, while a dysfunctional one is likelier to reach the end of the road. When Mars opposes Neptune that night, your thinking could become muddled, and you might lose faith. Postpone big decisions until the fog clears. You’re feeling curious but need to accept not having conclusive answers at the moment. A heated discussion can get messy, especially if politics, religion, ethics and personal beliefs are involved. Make sure you have your facts straight, and do your best to empathize with someone else’s point of view. You won’t go wrong if you say and do things that are honest and true. Let pure-hearted spiritual values and a yearning for justice guide you to connect local and global. As Mars gels with transformative Pluto on the 10th, frame your thinking in terms of what you can do to change things in your relationships, and initiate a candid, direct dialogue about it. Mercury wraps up its retrograde period in your sign on the 11th, a welcome development which should gradually pull your thoughts together and help you feel less tongue-tied. If you’ve been reviewing personal matters, you’ll start to reach some final conclusions. Venus hooks up with expansive Jupiter on August 12th, bringing a surge of unconditional love. You might be moved to make a kindhearted, grand gesture that benefits other people or a special someone. Or an urge to escape might prompt a luxurious indulgence. If you meet someone new, you could feel a deep, karmic connection. Give it time to develop before you declare they’re your soulmate. Your heart is wide open, but that can make you vulnerable if you’re romanticizing. Your ruling planet, the radiant Sun, exits Leo on August 22nd and marches into your worth zone, calling for you to assess your personal values and priorities. You’ll begin to identify more strongly with your financial state and your possessions, and it can be difficult to separate who you are from what you have. In the month ahead, you’ll be increasingly focused on what you need. But take inventory of what you have going for you too, including not just monetary assets but your talents as well. The next night’s New Moon coaxes you to create a budget, set financial goals, develop a new stream of income and shore up your self-sufficiency or self-esteem. A Sun-Uranus spat on the 24th implies you may or may not get what you want from friends or another group, and greed or possessiveness could make waves. Group interests and friendship aren’t aligning well with your needs, so reaching agreement won’t be a cinch. Try not to get impatient, expecting others to gratify your desires. If you’re flexible, people might surprise you. After Venus sashays into Leo on the 25th, you’ll feel especially social and attractive. You’ll exude warmth and charm in the next few weeks and won’t have much trouble making a favorable impression. Since you’ll have the ability to attract what and whom you desire, use your magnetism to your advantage—but without manipulation. A Venus-Saturn confab later that night can help you win over someone important or draw in people who have something to teach you. Venus shares the same synergy with Neptune on August 26th, putting you in tune with the world. You can get lost in an experience, enjoy a romantic adventure or a trip, relate to people who are different from you and maybe even feel divine love for all living beings. On August 27th, a Venus-Pluto clash can complicate relationships. In search of an intense connection, you might be drawn to someone who’s not good for you. Or tension could arise in an existing bond, and unhealthy compulsions can escalate conflict. If you stay self-aware, you can translate all this heat into passion and/or change.

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Try not to assume you have what you’re yearning for (e.g. a soulmate connection). And even if you think you can handle a situationship or a no-strings fling, you might get hurt if you’re harboring a fantasy that reality won’t live up to. After mobilizing Mars cruises into your worth house on August 6th, the urge to splurge could become a problem, so keep your impulses in check if you’re on a tight budget. Channel that energy into hustling for new sources of income and dealing proactively with your possessions. Mars teams up with revolutionary Uranus in your ambition angle on the 8th, motivating you to make full use of your talents and other resources so you can achieve something new. Confident, bold action can enable you to break fresh ground in your profession or make a unique impression in a public arena. Persistent effort will help you make headway on a top-priority goal, but stay flexible enough to seize any unforeseen opportunities that might come your way. That night’s Mars-Saturn opposition could point to a conflict over money, belongings, values, trust or sharing. You might be fixated on what you have and what you need, and your demands aren’t likely to be met to the extent that you’d like. If you think someone is being withholding or blocking you, your frustration could worsen. Do what you can to work out a compromise. The Full Moon of August 9th might bring a work project to fruition or call for you to put out a fairly routine fire. But you could also face a job crisis or health issue that compels you to make necessary changes. Want to break a bad habit? This is a golden opportunity to give it up for good. Hours later, a Mars-Neptune faceoff suggests outside resources like a loan may not materialize, or you might feel like someone isn’t there for you when you need them. Don’t jump on a dubious proposition. Focus on empowering yourself to be self-reliant, and for now, adopt a more laissez-faire attitude about what you receive from others. Your spiritual values can guide you to find the best balance of give-and-take. Fortunately, Mars joins forces with powerful Pluto in your productivity corner on the 10th, signaling that the work you’re doing to provide for yourself is making a big difference. Acting from a place of strong self-worth can improve your job, your health and your quality of life. Keep at it! As your ruler, Mercury, finishes its retrograde on August 11th, your imaginings, inklings and intuitive insights from the last few weeks will begin to coalesce. Still, you’ll continue to keep your own counsel for now. Venus’s meetup with expansive Jupiter on August 12th will make you feel extra social. Hanging with a wide range of people will put a smile on your face and open up your world. Your positive feelings about humanity could translate to backing a progressive cause or launching a philanthropic effort. And this freeing planetary pairing might also spark an attraction to a platonic pal. Your birthday season officially gets underway as the radiant Sun blazes into Virgo on August 22nd. You’re meant to focus on yourself and claim your fair share of attention in the month ahead. An influx of vitality allows you to project your personality with gusto and make a strong impression. Even better: The New Moon of August 23rd lands in YOUR sign, handing you your annual invitation to make a fresh start. What would you like to be different in the year ahead? How do you want to reinvent yourself? Start putting the pieces in place. New year, new you! A Sun-Uranus battle on the 24th hints that you may be pushing yourself to make progress, and self-assurance can drive you to do something original. But you’ll bristle if another person wields authority over you. Fly solo if possible. With Venus slipping into your selfless, secluded twelfth house on August 25th, you’ll crave more alone time and may also feel the need to take care of someone. You’re willing to make sacrifices out of love, but avoid falling into the trap of playing martyr during the next few weeks. Enjoy the satisfaction of helping people, and retreat from the world when you require a respite. Venus’s chemistry with Saturn that night implies your kindness and compassion won’t go unrewarded. You might even end up getting what you want while helping someone else. A similar Venus-Neptune tryst alludes to the pleasures of alone time and private time with a loved one—and the catharsis of empathy for yourself and others. Allow your nurturing side to inspire a sweet gesture. Doing something thoughtful for another person will make both of you feel good. Letting go of a desire can be healing now. But when Venus goes head to head with Pluto on August 27th, pressing responsibilities or health issues could prevent you from relaxing, or maybe there’s too much going on around you. When you’re stressed, it may seem like the logical solution is to be productive so you can cross things off your list. But take stock of your well-being first. If you’re feeling burnt out, contemplate how you might replenish your mind, body and spirit.

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If you’re feeling disillusioned or drained, you might decide to focus on how you can help yourself shine. It’s possible to help or inspire others through your work, so don’t ditch your own ambition. Go-getter Mars charges into Libra on August 6th, giving you a full tank of fuel until September 22nd. Go hard after your own goals and don’t attempt to get others on board. Inadvertent overkill can alienate people, so operate independently as much as possible. You’re fired up to advance your own interests and perhaps prove something in the process. As Mars harmonizes with inventive Uranus in your exploration corner on the 8th, you could have an eye-opening experience. Combine bold action and learning—possibly with some travel thrown in as well, if you can pull that off. Don’t hew to convention. Strive to do something excitingly different. That night’s Mars-Saturn standoff calls for patience, since you’re apt to feel blocked or tested, and your behavior may seem futile or even adversarial if you get frustrated. Don’t knock your head against a wall. Modify your efforts to suit the current situation and accept constructive criticism if it’s offered with respect. The Full Moon of August 9th lands in your joyful fifth house, putting you in the mood to express yourself freely and enjoy life. A creative project may come to fruition, and a love affair may reach new heights or go as far as it’s going to go. That night’s Mars-Neptune opposition suggests you’re working hard to execute your agenda and have the energy to assert yourself, but people may disappoint, confuse or discourage you, taking the wind out of your sails. You could be very busy doing what you need to do, but then you have to stop and take care of someone else. Try to find a good balance between action and compassion. Although you’re inclined to further your own interests now, this is a good time to be of service to another person. When Mars syncs up with transformative Pluto on August 10th, you have the power to do something that will change your life for the better. Boldly pursue love, happiness, creativity, fun and other forms of personal fulfillment. After Mercury gets back in gear on the 11th, your communication with friends, colleagues and other peers will gradually improve. Your PR is perfection when Venus meets up with beneficent Jupiter at the peak of your chart on the 12th. You won’t need to jump through endless hoops to promote yourself. Creative work is likely to receive accolades, and you might make fortunate contacts who can help you climb the ladder. You might take a trip for your job or be given a plum assignment that brings you positive attention. As the vibrant Sun sinks into your twelfth house of release and retreat on August 22nd, your energy will ebb. Your solar year is drawing to a close, and you’re due to rest, reflect and recharge your battery in the month that follows. Spend some time alone unwinding and looking back over the past year. Face everything without judgment or regret. You’re wiping the slate clean before your birthday season begins. The New Moon of August 23th beckons you to begin a spiritual practice, start a dream journal, prioritize your inner life and let go of something or someone for your own peace of mind. When the Sun clashes with Uranus on August 24th, your intention to lie low could be at odds with your urge for freedom, travel, unfamiliar experiences and change. Someone might be holding you back, but it’s more likely that you need rest or you’re putting out subconscious signals that you’re not quite ready to leap into the unknown. A healthy escape can transport your mind. With Venus dancing into your humanity house on August 25th, your social life will be on an upswing for the next few weeks. You’ll enjoy group activities and large gatherings and will find it easy to deal with people, making this a good time for professional networking. Venus gels with Saturn that night, nudging you to enjoy the company of friends and other people you like. Commit to putting in the effort when a bond is important to you. Even the best relationships require work sometimes. Venus has a similar summit with Neptune on the 26th, alluding to social harmony and romantic connection. Go with the flow and form organic connections with other individuals based on sincere, soulful feelings. You could be inspired to do something sweet for a friend or to see someone in a new light. As Venus goes head to head with Pluto on August 27th, a compulsion to express yourself can put you out of step with others, even though you have every intention of getting along swimmingly with people. Juggling your social life and your love life seems extra tricky now. Or you might be intensely attracted to someone you have a platonic relationship with. Regardless of the scenario, tread carefully and see if there’s a win-win to be found.

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After galvanizing Mars ducks into your twelfth house of release and retreat on August 6th, where he’ll be holed up until September 22nd, your best bet is to quietly work behind the scenes without expecting any acclaim for your efforts. Wrap up old business, putting on the finishing touches. Watch for a self-sabotaging behavior pattern to pop up, and try to nip it in the bud. You may need to process some repressed anger so you can hit the ground running with a clear head in late September. On the 8th, Mars collaborates with enlightening Uranus in your eighth house of intensity and merging, encouraging you to dive deep into a behind-the-scenes activity. This might be a research project, introspection, sex or emotional bonding. Set aside private time and be open to experimentation and revelations. When Mars faces off with Saturn that night, pent-up frustration or self-defeating behavior could keep you from achieving what you intend to. You might feel like what you’re doing isn’t measuring up. Be careful not to project irritation onto others. Conserve your energy rather than scattering it, and focus your efforts where they’ll be most effective, continuing to work by yourself in a quiet setting if possible. The Full Moon on August 9th draws your attention to home or family and calls for you to attend to your private emotions. Later that day, as Mars moves into an opposition with Neptune, you might feel like you’re drowning in work and need more time by yourself to decompress. Don’t expect everything to come together on the job or in your daily routine. Schedule R&R when you need to catch your breath, and work somewhere that is peaceful and private if you can. Projects that require imagination and intuition will be especially fruitful, and you might also do something selfless behind the scenes that serves a noble purpose. Your co-ruling planets—Mars and Pluto—join forces on the 10th, giving you an opportunity to tackle a big domestic project, confront a regressive behavior pattern or make one last push to finish something up. If you face something within yourself, you should be able to transform it, so be brave. Mercury’s about-face in your ambition angle on August 11th will slowly improve your communication with authority figures, clarify your thoughts about goals and help you to express yourself more effectively in public or in your profession. The pleasure of getting out of your comfort zone in every possible way is emphasized again on the 12th when Venus aligns with expansive Jupiter in your growth corner. The same old thing just won’t suffice. Spontaneity is in the air, and you might share an adventure with someone you adore. Learning counts as exploration, so if you can’t leave town, you might take a class, attend a lecture or go to a museum with a companion. If you’re dating, be open to someone who lives far away or isn’t your usual type—or maybe a person you don’t seem to have much in common with. You might be grateful down the road that you didn’t rule them out. The vibrant Sun’s arrival in your network precinct on August 22nd coaxes the social butterfly in you to come out and play. You’ll draw energy from camaraderie and will thrive in larger gatherings than you’re normally drawn to. Group endeavors and interactions are favored, even if they require you to tolerate people’s idiosyncrasies. The Sun is shining a light on your role in others’ lives and their roles in yours. Be yourself with people so you can fit in for the right reasons. The New Moon in that part of your chart on August 23rd alludes to making new friends and professional contacts, joining an organization and bringing fresh faces into your circle in other ways. You could get involved in a collaborative project or launch a humanitarian venture soon. A Sun-Uranus spat on the 24th suggests give-and-take probably won’t end up being perfectly balanced, and you could become impatient with someone if your expectations aren’t being met. Friction related to pooled resources, trust, money or jealousy is possible now. After Venus ascends to the peak of your chart on the 25th, you’ll have the ability to make a good impression on higher-ups, and you may have a chance to do more creative work. Professional relationships should run smoothly during the next few weeks. When Venus teams up with Saturn several hours later, your work ethic can cast you in a very favorable light with your superiors. A combination of charisma and diligence puts success within reach. As Venus enjoys similar chemistry with Neptune on August 26th, you could receive positive recognition for being of service to others. The more aligned your efforts are with your highest spiritual values, the more likely you are to feel truly satisfied and appreciated. A professional dream or health goal seems attainable now. An office romance might also be in the cards. Tension between your parents, between you and an authority figure or between your public/professional life and your home life could get to you on the 27th when Venus goes head to head with Pluto. Or your own turbulent emotional state could hurt your PR. If you’re sweeping unpleasant feelings under the rug in order to keep up appearances, try a different tactic. Face the not-so-pretty stuff going on inside you—or in your private life—and see if you can transform it into fuel. A creative passion project may be the ideal outlet.

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It’s important to know what your unspoken expectations are and whether you’re on the same page with someone or not. You might also be sharing with a good friend and feel let down or rejected. Or maybe you’re immersed in a passion project and feeling blocked. Regardless of the scenario, try not place too much emphasis on another person changing. When in doubt, do your own soul-searching first. Teamwork makes the dream work after go-getter Mars charges into your humanity house on August 6th. Be proactive about professional networking and group collaborations during the next month and a half. Seek out people who share your ideals or aspirations and join forces on worthwhile endeavors. Mars himself joins forces with impromptu Uranus in your interpersonal realm on the 8th, facilitating shared endeavors and socializing. The chances of meeting someone new are fairly high if you engage in group activities. You can easily connect with someone who stimulates your intellect. Assert your singular POV, but stay open to theirs too. Taking a fresh approach to a relationship or changing your role in an organization could prove fruitful. That night, Mars goes toe to toe with Saturn, possibly putting teamwork in jeopardy or inhibiting your enthusiasm for joining in socially. You could feel cut off somehow, and chances are you’re holding yourself back. If you’ve been working hard on a creative project, this can be a useful transit for collaborating, but you have to be willing to compromise. You might be inclined to work on what is most satisfying to you personally. Or you could be harboring insecurity over what you’re striving to accomplish. Part of you probably feels like withdrawing and focusing on yourself, but syncing up with like-minded people would be worthwhile. The Full Moon of August 9th may bring a torrent of info, communication and busyness or push you to change your mind. Let go of your need to have all the answers, Sag. The capacity for curiosity and wonder is something to cherish. Hours later, a Mars-Neptune opposition means teamwork and group activities will probably be challenging again, especially if you’re idealizing people or the pleasure you’ll derive from doing something. You might feel uncertain about getting what you truly want. Try to coordinate your efforts with others, but schedule an escape of sorts if you need to. On the 10th, Mars dovetails with powerful Pluto in your third house of thinking and talking, so shared endeavors can be enriching that day and even transform your mindset. Going after new goals, acting on your ideals and pursuing new interests can also shift your perception for the better. With Mercury ending its retrograde on the 11th, the big picture will start to fall back into place, and you could gain fresh perspective that restores your optimism. Snags with travel and education should resolve soon. Sex, emotional excavation, a passion project or an investigation can blossom into a glorious adventure on August 12th, thanks to Venus’s meeting with larger-than-life Jupiter. You’ll feel brave enough to be completely vulnerable with another individual or to explore your feelings so you can understand yourself better. If you want to learn from a past relationship, recover from a loss or come out of a dark time, this is a great opportunity to dive into the deep waters of your psyche and exit on the other side—wiser and happier. With the radiant Sun sailing into your ambition angle on August 22nd, some of your attention shifts to important objectives and your career. You’re inclined to keep a high profile now in pursuit of achievements and accolades. This is your time to shine in public or in your profession, so don’t play small. You may find you’re being nudged into the spotlight. Show off what you’re capable of, and you’ll make a good impression. The New Moon on August 23rd encourages you to set new goals, start a fresh chapter in your career, chart a new course that shifts your life direction, enhance your public image or craft a business plan. Relationship ups-and-downs or unpredictable people can lead you to take your eye off the ball on the 24th when the Sun scuffles with Uranus. You might become bossy, especially if someone tests your patience. Try to give people plenty of leeway. And remember that they may not share your agenda. On the 25th, Venus arrives in your expansion corner for a three-and-a-half-week tour, luring you to enjoy the company of a broader range of humanity and the pleasure of a wider array of cultural experiences. Branch out, hang with people who are different from you and take a trip if you can. Venus vibes with Saturn that night and Neptune the next, so getting out of your comfort zone and everyday routine and savoring unfamiliar pleasures will be incredibly satisfying. An attraction to a different person, culture or place could turn into a long-term passion. An adventure might prove to be truly transcendent. If you’re looking for love, open your heart and mind to the idea of someone new and different. You might become obsessive on August 27th when Venus opposes Pluto. Perhaps you’ll be drawn to someone outside your comfort zone and intensify the situation by fixating on this person and overthinking the situation. It won’t be easy, but see if you can find a happy medium between ascribing a lot of meaning to something and just taking life as it comes. Enjoy a pleasant, unfamiliar experience, and maybe allow yourself to chew it over a bit, but not too much.

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A yearning for peace and quiet might put you in the mood for alone time and cause you to bow out of plans with another person. If you feel let down by someone, consider the possibility that your ideals might be preventing you from seeing them clearly. Maybe you’re longing for a feeling of home and comfort with them, and that’s clouding your perception. Go-getter Mars climbs to the peak of your chart on August 6th, where he’ll be firing up your ambition for the next six and a half weeks. Choose projects you’re passionate about, and be your own boss if possible. You might throw yourself into pursuing an existing goal or eagerly assume a bigger role at your job. This can be a successful time for you, but your zeal to get ahead may cause you to step on toes, so be conscious of your effect on others. On the 8th, as Mars syncs up with revolutionary Uranus in your efficiency corner, pursuing your goals is closely tied to improving your habits, methods, schedule, skills, time management and work ethic. Tweaking your daily routine will enable you to be more productive. Conversely, channeling energy into achieving your objectives will change the quality of your everyday life. Mars does battle with Saturn that night, so you’re motivated to achieve something in the world, but domestic or family obligations might be weighing you down. Or perhaps the past or your roots are holding you back in some way so you don’t feel entirely emboldened to pursue your goals. You may need to get past an emotional block before you can achieve what you want to. The Full Moon of August 9th conflates needs and desires, putting you at risk of overspending, especially if you feel like you’ve been deprived of pleasure lately. But your hard work could pay off financially now, as you’re more likely to receive what you’ve earned than what you suddenly crave. Later that day, a Mars-Neptune standoff suggests underlying malaise, fatigue, uncertainty or idealism could derail your efforts to accomplish something, and again, your family or home life might somehow pull you away from your mission to succeed. Balance is key. Try to give equal time to ambition and comfort. Working from home would be a great option. Fortunately, Mars teams up with intensifier Pluto on the 10th, prompting you to pursue your aims. When you act, you’ll reinforce a growing sense of self-empowerment. You’re stronger than you realize. Next, Mercury wraps up its retrograde on the 11th, potentially clearing up a mystery in your head and helping you to communicate better in close relationships. Your focus will sharpen, and you can once again zero in on a topic—or person—you’re passionate about. Venus meets up with beneficent Jupiter on August 12th, hinting that you’ll be lucky in love. You might meet a person from a different country or background or find yourself drawn to someone who doesn’t match your usual criteria. If you’re dating and seeking a significant other, keeping an open mind will up your odds of hitting the jackpot. With the radiant Sun cruising into your expansion corner on August 22nd, you’ll have the impetus to break out of your routine and try something new. If you seek out learning experiences that can change how you see the world, personal growth will be a positive byproduct of this process. Travel, higher education and encounters with a variety of people are likely to revive your spirit. A New Moon on the 23rd prompts you to feed your hunger for adventure. A big trip, a new course of study or an entrepreneurial venture could be just around the corner. This is a good lunation for adopting a new philosophy and taking a leap of faith. The Sun’s discord with Uranus on August 24th can throw a wrench in your plans. Your wanderlust or appetite for new experiences may be thwarted by shifting circumstances like a change in schedule, an unexpected duty or a health issue. An inability to concentrate might cut into your productivity. You’re likely to feel scattered and could grow frustrated with limitations. Venus sashays into your eighth house of depth and merging on the 25th, enhancing your craving for closeness, intensifying a romantic relationship or making it easier for you to share your feelings and attract support in the next three and a half weeks. Venus harmonizes with Saturn that same night, luring you to enjoy the company of someone you feel safe with. Intimacy is very grounding now, and a close relationship could become more serious. Venus shares the same chemistry with Neptune the next night, hinting that one-on-one time with a loved one in the privacy of your home can be romantic and/or soothing. You’re not missing out if you’re by yourself though. Alone time can help you center yourself and feel more at peace with life. But your needs could dominate a relationship on August 27th as Venus goes up against Pluto. Whether you’re striving to share your life with a significant other or feel close to a friend, financial pressures, turbulent self-esteem or an intense concern with having what you want or require can make that more difficult. A disagreement over money, possessions, values or priorities is possible. Try to balance your own self-interest with your desire to have a strong bond with people who are important to you.

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Your words might not be as clear as you intend, and your judgment might not be as sharp as you’d like. Confusion over work, health and other practical matters is to be expected. Make sure you’re not deceiving yourself by thinking what you want to think. If you’re trying to address problems in a relationship, it could be difficult to view them realistically. After Mars blasts into your exploration realm on August 6th, you’ll be motivated to go out on a limb in order to have exciting learning experiences. You might fight for a cause, take off on a trip, sign up for a workshop or embark on an entrepreneurial venture. Whatever you do, remember you’re not meant to play it safe in the next month and a half. Mars has a fortuitous meeting with impromptu Uranus—your ruling planet—on the 8th, hinting at stimulating adventures that open your mind to new ways of enjoying life. Embracing travel, learning, a wide variety of people and unfamiliar ideas will inspire you and may bring out a different side of your personality. Novel experiences will reinforce your courage, and you’re fired up to take chances for the sake of love, happiness, fun and creative self-expression. You need to keep experimenting so you can explore different ways of being your whole, authentic self. Give yourself permission to play. That night’s Mars-Saturn opposition implies you’re motivated to break new ground, but you have reservations. Pessimism, a strict mindset or cognizance of rules may prevent you from taking chances, as your intrepid spirit competes with your knowledge of reality. A debate—internal or interpersonal—will probably feel fruitless. You might need to push past limiting thinking, a reluctance to express yourself or apprehension about shifting gears. Sticking to default thought patterns can stop you from broadening your mind and adopting a more invigorating perspective. That said, it’s appropriate to weigh potential actions in your head so you can decide what’s best for you. The Full Moon of August 9th lights up Aquarius and brings your emotions to the surface. You might be ready to drop something from your life now. You’ll probably feel needy and may hesitate to open up, but owning your feelings and taking self-care seriously will ground you. Seek a healthy outlet for intense emotions, and be willing to let go of them. As Mars faces off with Neptune hours later, you could be prepared to take bold action but don’t have enough clarity to fill in all the blanks in a grand scheme. If you’re wavering, don’t bluff. Heed your gut instincts and wait until the fog has cleared. Don’t get discouraged. It’s okay not to have all the answers. You might be tempted to overdo something that puts you in an altered state, but try to hold off on taking any action that could have detrimental consequences. Consider standing up for an underdog now. A Mars-Pluto alliance on the 10th endorses taking a risk in the name of personal growth. Pursue new experiences, fight for a noble cause, broaden your mind—such actions can have a profound positive impact on you. With Mercury ending its retrograde on the 11th, relations with other individuals should slowly become smoother, and you can resolve any differences that may have arisen in the past few weeks. Venus aligns with generous Jupiter on August 12th, helping you to get along well with colleagues. You’ll gain a sense of purpose from doing creative work or being of service to others—including your loved ones. Gratitude for all the little things in your life will be an instant mood booster. The Sun’s arrival in your depth zone on the 22nd puts you in closer touch with your psyche and gives you the strength to face your fears, recover from a loss or crisis, heal a wound and change from within. A close relationship can also be the catalyst for powerful change in the coming month. The next night’s New Moon suggests a new sexual relationship—or a new level of closeness in an existing one—could be in the pipeline. You might soon start a new research project or investigation, tap into a fresh outside resource or undergo an empowering emotional transformation. The Sun’s skirmish with Uranus on the 24th could send you off on a tangent if you have an impulse to enjoy the lighter side of life. An urge for independence might disrupt closeness that day. But once Venus dances into your interpersonal angle on August 25th, it should be easy to find middle ground and get along with people because you’ll be in tune with what they want. The next few weeks are a good time for making peace. That night’s Venus-Saturn confab encourages you to devise a solid strategy for meeting prospective partners if you’re looking for love—or to take someone you already know more seriously. A mature conversation can put you back on the same page with a person you care about. A similar Venus-Neptune mashup on the 26th can help you relate one on one with empathy and compassion. You may need to remind yourself not to see others through rose-colored glasses though. On August 27th, Venus opposes Pluto in Aquarius, tempting you to try to control others. It may seem like you’re coming on too strong, and you might feel like you’re too much for people. Both are common when this powerful planet inhabits your sign. Aim for healthy compromises. If possible, find a way to channel your passion into your relationships without dominating anyone.

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Your ability to experience love, enjoy life and express your creativity, feelings and personality might be impaired by fear. Be careful not to indulge in the wrong things or people. You might give someone a pass because you have feelings for them and aren’t assessing their real value in your life clearly. Your self-worth must come from YOU, not from someone else. After fiery Mars dives into your depth-and-merging house on August 6th, you could plunge into research, an investigation, a joint venture or a passion project. Anything you do is likely to have your full attention, so choose wisely. Your libido can also heat up during the next month and a half, and you won’t hesitate to take bold action. A Mars-Uranus collaboration on the 8th nudges you to channel energy into a close relationship, a research project or psychological investigation. Exploring your sexuality or private emotions will be liberating. You might move beyond an old M.O. that no longer works and try doing things a different way. But when Mars opposes limiting Saturn that night, you may push to get what you need from someone and feel stymied by a lack of confidence. A fear of what you lack—or a fear of losing what you already have—can block sharing and closeness. Rigid values, financial insecurity and possessiveness could also pose problems, and compromise may be called for. Or perhaps you’re trying to change something deep within yourself, and clinging to what you think you need is preventing that personal transformation. Saturn wants you to learn what is truly most valuable to you. The Full Moon of August 9th can bring something from your subconscious to light, and you might need extra sleep and alone time. With Mars opposing Neptune that night, a power imbalance could upset your equilibrium. Jealousy, envy and competitiveness may trigger conflict. Don’t focus on what you’re getting from someone else or stress over what others have. You need to believe deep down in your soul that you’re enough and can get what you need for yourself. As Mars syncs with potent Pluto on the 10th, boldly facing your demons will pay dividends, in the form of empowering psychological growth. Emotional turmoil can lead to healing and rebuilding. If you get close to someone now, it’s bound to be an intense experience. If you dive into a passion project, you’ll probably work hard and see it through to the end. Mercury’s U-turn out of retrograde on the 11th improves your ability to analyze situations and problem-solve. Scheduling snafus, miscues on the job and overlooked details won’t trip you up so much going forward. Be willing to take a risk when Venus aligns with lucky Jupiter on the 12th. A crush could blossom into a full-blown romance, fresh sparks could fly with your long-time love, or you might fall for someone new who’s outside your comfort zone. A creative gamble will also pay off, so don’t play it too safe. This planetary combo urges you to go out on a limb in the name of self-expression, joy or amour. You’re even more motivated to connect with other individuals after the vibrant Sun enters your relationship realm on August 22nd. You can learn about yourself through your encounters with others, and the month ahead is an appropriate time to examine your closest connections. Think about how well they fulfill your needs and what you bring to the table. The next night’s New Moon implies a new partnership (creative, romantic, business, etc.) may be in the cards. Or you could make a serious commitment to someone you’re already involved with. You might start thinking about what you’re looking for in your relationships and try to meet or spend time with people who are right for you. Your family, your mood or your living situation could disrupt your rapport with another individual during a Sun-Uranus clash on August 24th. If you’re grappling with interpersonal conflict, pause and attend to what’s going on at home or inside you. It might be your own underlying urge for independence and change that’s impacting a relationship or your ability to get along with people. So, take an honest look at your innermost emotions. After Venus arrives in your efficiency corner on the 25th, you may be inspired to work on a relationship, beautify your workspace or do more creative work. Relations with colleagues should be good, and you’ll enjoy your daily interactions in the next few weeks. When Venus plays nice with Saturn that night, a realistic view of relationships and a desire for someone reliable will keep you grounded. Bonus: Creative work might generate a steady income now. Venus’s similar vibe with Neptune on the 26th may move you to put aside your own needs and let your spiritual values take the lead. You can be of great service to others and might produce highly imaginative work as well. Your enjoyment of everyday life could be affected by subconscious rumblings when Venus faces off with Pluto on August 27th. It’s not easy to take pleasure in what you’re doing if strong emotions are brewing beneath your surface. Dealing with that inner turbulence can loosen the grip it has on you. You can keep subversive compulsions from controlling you by bringing them out of hiding and confronting them. Integrating the hidden components of your psyche into your whole self is a long-term process, so give yourself some grace.

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Neptune’s presence in Aries can blur your identity. If you’re entertaining, decorating or socializing with people you live with, the results may fall short of your ideals, so remind yourself to appreciate imperfect joys. This transit is also associated with overindulgence in food and other comforts. After your ruler, assertive Mars, charges into your relationship angle on the 6th, it’s time to recruit a partner to do things with and to be proactive about airing grievances. But make sure to fight fair during the next month and a half. As Mars meshes with liberating Uranus on the 8th, inventive, productive interactions could follow. This would be an opportune day for working through an interpersonal conflict. If you’re not overly wedded to a specific point of view and you make your case in a fresh way, chances are you can have a fruitful discussion. That night’s Mars-Saturn standoff suggests your focus on your own agenda could make it harder for you to engage in partnership. Or, you might feel too tired to hash things out with someone. It’s also possible that another individual will become frustrated if you seem withdrawn or withholding or are stopping them from doing something. Don’t wall yourself off, but do call a timeout if you’re not up for cooperating. The Full Moon of August 9th emphasizes your role in the lives of others and calls for you to help people in need. Socializing is favored, but drama among your friends is possible, and you might feel the need to cut ties with a certain group. Several hours later, a Mars-Neptune opposition can make you feel provoked to act even though you’re mired in indecision or insecurity. Or maybe you’re not seeing yourself clearly and you’re projecting your own qualities onto another person. Don’t give in to despair or guilt. You need space to tune into your feelings. Boundaries are important for everyone, but they’re absolutely vital when permeable Neptune is in your sign. Postpone confrontations, since you’re probably not up to asserting yourself and a conflict is likely to be confusing. Fortunately, Mars joins forces with intense Pluto on August 10th, facilitating collaborations, especially ones that can make a difference in the world. Shared endeavors have tremendous power now, so make them count. Mercury’s direct turn in your self-expression zone on August 11th will gradually help you to convey your feelings more clearly and can lift a creative block. With Venus spooning expansive Jupiter on the 12th, you might be in the mood to get cozy with someone behind closed doors or host a big party at your place. Since domestic relationships are highlighted, you should experience smooth sailing with family members and roommates. You might take the leap with your love interest and swap house keys or talk about moving in together. Nesting, romance and socializing at home are all possibilities, but this part of your chart also rules emotions and memories, so you might get super sentimental or nostalgic. The radiant Sun blazes into your efficiency corner on August 22nd, giving you more energy to put your nose to the grindstone and cross a lot off your to-do list in the month ahead. Aim to be as productive as possible, sharpen your skills, improve your time-management and dedicate yourself to a period of potentially humbling hard work. This is also an appropriate time to focus on your health and do what you can to improve your wellbeing. The next night’s New Moon invites you to get on a different schedule, start a new diet or exercise regimen; initiate a positive habit; strengthen your work ethic; organize your workspace; and make medical appointments. The Sun’s spat with Uranus on August 24th can make you anxious and distracted. Giving yourself brief breaks to clear your head can help. Otherwise, you could shoot off on a tangent and have a hard time getting back on track. After Venus sets up shop in your fulfillment realm on the 25th, you’ll want to get out and enjoy life and let people see your whole, authentic self. Creative self-expression and romance are favored in the next few weeks. That night’s Venus-Saturn coalition ensures that amour, humor, play or an artistic outlet will light you up. A loved one could draw you out, and you might have a positive experience of being cherished for who you really are. When Venus enjoys similar chemistry with Neptune on the 26th, passivity could cause you to miss out just such a positive experience, so meet happiness halfway. When there’s an easy flow, it’s natural not to notice and to become too complacent to get the most out of the situation. It may only add up to a fun day or a beautiful moment, but grab hold of it anyway. With Venus and Pluto going head to head on August 27th, friction between personal pleasure and group interests could arise. Your inclination to enjoy life on your terms is at odds with other people in some way. Maybe your friends aren’t fans of the person you’re dating, social obligations conflict with your current desires or changes in a friendship are bothering you. It’s also possible that you’ll be very attracted to someone in your circle—even someone you saw as a platonic pal.

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But you can take pleasure in life and still address what’s going on inside you. If you feel lost, soothe yourself instead of burying your feelings. With doer Mars charging through your efficiency corner from August 6th to September 22nd, you’ll be highly productive. Tackle your to-do list, devote energy to taking care of business at work and be proactive about improving your health. Regular workouts will help you offload stress during this busy time. A Mars-Uranus summit on the 8th alludes to the connection between hard work and improved finances. You’re encouraged to put your shoulder to the wheel at your job and execute other daily duties with gusto. Utilize your talents and resources in inventive ways that permit you to accomplish as much as possible. Everything you have at your disposal will work in your favor if you’re flexible, so be willing to shuffle your priorities. When Mars faces off with Saturn that night, you may find it difficult to get as much done as you’d planned to if you’re still wrapping up unfinished business after hours. Guilt, self-doubt or an old way of doing things could hamper your productivity. Working in a low-key setting—possibly at home—should help. Fortunately, the Full Moon in the wee hours of August 9th could bring a goal to fruition. This lunation can also spell a shift in your career path or life direction. As Mars goes toe to toe with Neptune later that day, you’re likely to lose steam and should give yourself a chance to rest—or at least digress into a daydream. Just because you can’t do it everything in one go doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel. You can get back to work later with renewed enthusiasm, especially if you avoid perfectionism. Thanks to a Mars-Pluto alliance on the 10th, your diligent efforts will get you back on track and make you feel more in control of your destiny. You need to feel like you’re being creative and useful, so let your imagination and the spirit of service inform what you’re doing. Mercury finishes up its retrograde phase in your domestic realm on the 11th, gradually improving your ability to understand and express your innermost thoughts and feelings. Soon, you should be able to smooth over any misunderstandings you’ve had with family or roommates. With Venus encountering optimistic Jupiter in your third house of mindset and communication on the 12th, you’re seeing the world through a positive lens that inspires pleasant interactions and generous shows of affection. Since you’re interested now in connecting with a wide range of people, it’s a good idea to get out and circulate. You’ll enjoy warm conversations that can open up new worlds to you and enhance your life. Noticing beauty, love and goodness will keep you in an upbeat mood. You’re likely to share your feelings freely and to be more flirtatious and effusive than usual. The radiant Sun’s arrival in your fifth house of personal fulfillment on August 22nd energizes you to express who you are and how you feel. You’ll gravitate to fun, romance, creativity and hobbies, as enjoying life moves higher up on your priority list in the month ahead. The next night’s New Moon can coax you to discover a new source of pleasure, start a creative project or make more time for play, and it can also spell the beginning of a new love affair. But as the Sun quibbles with unpredictable Uranus on August 24th, uneven confidence or erratic finances can affect self-expression and fun. Personal pleasure and artistic or amorous fulfillment may seem to wax and wane. Be flexible in your use of what you have going for you and try not to overemphasize specific needs. It may not be as simple as you’d like to have a good time, but you’re capable of riding out these bumps and enjoying life regardless—especially if you can gain insight into what’s truly most valuable to you. Once Venus settles into your foundation angle on the 25th, you might be in the mood to have people over to your place, decorate, hang out with family or enjoy the comforts of home. In the next few weeks, you should enjoy good relations with people you live with, plus you’ll often be more inclined to stay in than go out. As Venus gels with Saturn that night, you’ll feel pleasantly grounded. Savor downtime at home or socializing in your space. You can make peace now with where you are in your life and will appreciate what—or whom—you can depend on. Venus’s similar alliance with Neptune on August 26th greenlights harmless, escapist. at-home indulgences, so pick your pleasure. The pressure to achieve something could get to you on August 27th when Venus opposes Pluto. Part of you wants to relax in familiar surroundings, while part of you feels compelled to prove yourself out in the world. Discord between your parents or between you and higher-ups is another possibility, or you could get into a power struggle with someone you live with. Oppositions feel like an either-or, but they endorse a both-and. Aim to have it both ways. Unwind a bit and also let your angst propel you to achieve something (in whichever order you choose).

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Avoid comparing yourself to others and worrying that they’re not coming through for you. Strive to reconcile your earthly desires with more selfless, spiritual ideals. Extravagant spending is a danger if your wish list spins out of control. Get your priorities in order by asking yourself if you’re holding onto and letting go of the right things. After bold Mars surges into your fifth house of personal fulfillment on the 6th, you’ll be motivated to go after what you want and contribute your unique talents to the world. Show off your creativity, ask out your crush or make time for fun in the next month and a half. As Mars clicks with liberating Uranus in Gemini on August 8th, you’re highly encouraged to pursue pleasure, artistic self-expression, love and happiness that frees your spirit and motivates you to keep redefining yourself. Don’t hesitate to take a fresh approach in order to grab hold of what your heart desires. Instead of going after what has given you joy in the past, you might choose to discover new forms of entertainment and sources of satisfaction. In contrast, that night’s Mars-Saturn standoff suggests chasing after what you want probably won’t line up neatly with group interests. Personal pleasure may not conform to others’ expectations, and you might pursue a romantic relationship that your friends don’t support. It seems difficult to do your own thing and integrate yourself with others at the same time. Try to find a compromise—but don’t wait for someone to give you the go-ahead before doing what you feel is right for you. The Full Moon of August 9th can bring an adventure or a leap of faith. This lunation offers the perfect excuse to release a limiting belief. Let it go! When Mars opposes Neptune hours later, you may get confusing feedback from friends. You might find it difficult to say and do what pleases you and still get along well with a group. Maybe you’re torn between standing out and fitting in. Or a friend in need could keep you from obtaining whatever pleasures you had planned. If compromise doesn’t look likely, march to the beat of your own drummer without pitting yourself against people. Try to stay clear on who you are and what makes you happy. Don’t lose yourself by going with the flow. Luckily, you can get back in the swing of things on the 10th as Mars vibes with powerful Pluto. Expressing yourself confidently—especially if the point is to bring about change in the world—will be totally worth it. With your ruler, messenger Mercury, resuming forward motion on the 11th, your thoughts from the last few weeks will begin to sort themselves out, and your timing and communication will get better. Delays and detours should soon be less of a problem. Venus’s meetup with expansive Jupiter on August 12th inspires you to indulge your senses. All five can give you immense pleasure now. You can be extremely generous and rather decadent too, so watch your spending if you’re on a tight budget. But this pairing can also signal a windfall like a lump-sum payment. A burst of self-confidence could enliven your interactions with people. As the Sun dips down to your foundation angle on August 22nd, you’ll want to feel centered in the month that follows. Spending more time at home or with family will help you get your bearings. Your space, memories, private feelings and innermost thoughts require your attention. Carve out alone time for contemplation. The next night’s New Moon hints at a new development in your family or a fresh start that affects your living situation. It might be a good time to put a new self-care practice in place that will enhance your emotional wellbeing. The Sun’s scuffle with Uranus on August 24th could cause your patience with a relative or roommate to wear thin. Or you might have a sudden need to break free from the past. If you’re feeling rebellious, direct that energy toward liberating yourself from stuck emotions or an old pattern rather than overreacting to people in your environment. You may be too restless to stay in and relax despite an underlying desire to lie low. If you’re itching to shake up the status quo, get out and do your own thing instead of rocking the boat. After Venus dances into your thinking-and-talking corner on the 25th, you’ll probably feel rather affectionate, flirtatious and lighthearted, Appreciating the warmth and beauty in your everyday life will keep you in a positive frame of mindset. With Venus cozying up to Saturn that night, you can easily give others the benefit of the doubt, use your social skills and perhaps do some professional networking. Enjoy what you can accomplish when you connect with the right people. A Venus-Neptune confab on the 26th ensures you’ll enjoy harmony with a group, especially if you’re around people who share your ideals. You’ll find that friends are receptive when you convey your warm feelings. You could be overcome with FOMO when Venus opposes powerful Pluto on August 27th, planting the idea in your head that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. Venus wants you to have pleasant interactions with the people you cross paths with and delight in what’s right in front of you. But Pluto is luring you to obsess over the deeper meaning behind everything and the need to change your current reality. This planetary face-off challenges you to balance a breezy mindset with heavier thoughts. Don’t let the intrigue of difference keep you from valuing the here and now.

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Don’t be discouraged if a goal eludes you or if someone in power throws you for a loop. It’s tempting to focus on what you’re not getting. Instead, ask yourself what your exact aspirations are, how committed you are to achieving them and what kind of signals you’re sending out. Not knowing what you’re aiming for could be the core issue. After motivating Mars descends to the base of your chart on August 6th, working from home or working on your home will make a lot of sense in the next month and a half. You might feel irritable and get into pointless squabbles without understanding why, particularly at home or with family. Try to figure out what’s eating at you and fix it so you can avoid unnecessary strife. Mars syncs up with liberating Uranus in your subconscious sector on the 8th, nudging you to clean up the clutter in your house and in your mind. Whether you sweep dust bunnies out of the corners or skeletons out of the closet, you’ll breathe freer. Confronting physical or emotional mess will lighten your load. It’s a good time to let go of stuff—literally and figuratively. A regressive behavior pattern, a domestic project or familial strife might compete with ambition or career responsibilities on the 8th when Mars goes head to head with Saturn. Your parents might be arguing, or you could feel unable to break away from the past and establish yourself as a success. To dial down tension, stay as self-aware as possible. The Full Moon of August 9th pushes you to honor someone else’s needs, release an embedded emotion from your psyche or settle a debt. Sex is likely to trigger a flood of feelings now. Hours later, a Mars-Neptune opposition could generate a bewildering situation with a parent, a boss or another authority figure. You might become irritable if it seems like you’re spinning your wheels. What can you do to make yourself feel more centered and grounded? Feeling uncertain about your direction in life can tempt you to lie low and avoid taking on any challenges. Don’t simply rest on your laurels. Imagine yourself accomplishing something you’ve dreamed of. Thanks to a Mars-Pluto summit on August 10th, working on your home, partnering with—or confronting—a family member, facing the past or dealing with your hidden anger can all lead to serious transformation. With Mercury turning direct in your worth zone on the 11th, your financial judgment should gradually improve. You’ll feel more able to accurately assess what you need and what you have going for you. When Venus forms a dynamic duo with expansive Jupiter in your sign on the 12th, you could take a chance on a new love interest you wouldn’t normally go for. They may live far away, or their background might be radically different from yours. Jupiter wants you to learn, and your differences are bound to be educational. If you’re in a dead-end relationship, you could find the courage to test your wings. And if you’re already attracted to someone, you’re prepared to make that more apparent now. A surge of optimism can give you fresh initiative, and your glow will draw people to you like moths to a flame. You want to enjoy life to the fullest and might be inspired to travel or embark some other adventure. The radiant Sun’s arrival in your third house of thinking and talking on the 22nd gives your mind, your words and everyday interactions a full tank of revitalizing fuel. Try to be more aware of your default thought patterns and your typical communication style. Mental clarity enables you to convey your message coherently, but you should also make a point of listening attentively. The next night’s New Moon can inspire you to express yourself in a fresh way, embark on a mission to learn something, take a short trip or two, and get in touch with people. Due to the Sun’s feud with Uranus on August 24th, your conscious thoughts and words are at odds with your subconscious impulses. You may seem impatient, disagreeable or rash, depending on the urges influencing your speech. You’re liable to say things you didn’t intend to. Press pause and self-edit. Venus exits Cancer and segues into your worth zone on August 25th, stimulating your material desires and helping you to attract what you need. Your taste may become rather extravagant, so guard against ill-advised splurges. With Venus and Saturn in cahoots that night, your hard work can pay off. Get clear on what’s most valuable to you and be on the lookout for a money-making opportunity. A similar Venus-Neptune mashup on the 26th indicates you can draw in more income through service-oriented or creative work. The better you use your talents now, the more likely you are to achieve a dream. Venus’s dustup with Pluto on the 27th points to a possible conflict over your desires. You might experience pressure related to sharing, jealousy, possessiveness or trust or feel a sexual attraction that unsettles you. Avoid manipulation, and be careful not to foster a destructive dynamic. Instead, work to bring about constructive change in a relationship or in your own psyche.

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