Because the stars are all about finding a good middle ground...

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The sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars pay visits to Cancer and Leo this month. Meanwhile Pluto, Jupiter and Saturn are camped out in the signs of Capricorn and Aquarius. So we’ll witness way more than our fair share of planetary oppositions in July. These faceoffs are notoriously tense — and nobody wants to spend the summer hiding under the covers! Fortunately, there’s a solution: compromise. Defuse inner dilemmas by honoring the fact that there’s more than one side to you. We’ll stay on an even keel if we cut each other — and ourselves — some slack!

CANCER

June 21–July 22

Avoid charging full speed ahead to get what you need on the first of the month, because you’re likely to run into a brick wall named Saturn. If you’re fixated on acquiring or holding onto something, conflict could seem pretty hard to avoid. Compromise is the way to go. Mars and Uranus clash on the 3rd, bringing more tension over money, belongings, priorities or values. Flexibility is key to sidestepping strife this time. Give people space to be themselves and let them march to their own beat. On July 6th, a Venus-Saturn faceoff continues to make you conscious of not getting what you want from someone. Concentrate on your own ability to take care of yourself. Otherwise, the glass is bound to seem half-empty. Then when Venus spars with Uranus on the 8th, keep doing your best not to get impatient. Don’t expect others to gratify your desires. If you adapt to what’s on offer, people may surprise you in a good way! Firm demands, on the other hand, will only make waves. Thankfully, your month improves quickly with a new moon rising in Cancer on July 9th. Here’s your biggest fresh start of the year! This lunation’s harmonious trine to Neptune can persuade you to aim high with new personal goals — while its testy opposition with Pluto hints that you may get some pushback. Let an entrepreneurial spirit inspire this year’s bucket list, and keep in mind what team of friends and contacts will support your progress. Mercury visits your sign from July 11th to July 27th, gifting you with sound logic and a silver tongue. You can make personal decisions with greater objectivity now, so get to mulling. And the Venus-Mars alignment on July 13th will help you to confidently assess what’s important and then act on that. You finally have a good chance of getting your needs met! Lose yourself in an uplifting experience on the 15th as the sun harmonizes with Neptune. If you can travel, that would be ideal; if not, anything that allows you to connect on a meaningful level with something beyond yourself will be well worth it. Then the sun goes toe to toe with Pluto on the 17th, intensifying one-on-one interactions. You might get defensive if it seems like someone’s trying to control you. Do stand up to a bully, but don’t get pulled into a power struggle. A Venus-Jupiter encounter on July 22nd may lead to a spirited debate or eye-opening adventure. Interesting people can expand your world now, so make a point of mingling. On July 28th, Jupiter backs into your depth zone, compelling you to shine a light into the dark corners of your psyche and the inner workings of your close relationships. You might feel more hopeful about intimacy, emotional and financial support and getting to the bottom of something important. Jupiter tangles with Mars the next day, though, making it riskier for now to pin your hopes on a certain someone. Respect for the needs and values of others will go a long way that day.

LEO

July 23–August 22

With amorous, glamorous Venus dancing through Leo during the first few weeks of this month, plenty of shameless flirting and decadent fun are in order. No one can resist your charms now — and why would they try? You’re even more warm, generous and dazzling than usual, putting you in high demand. So block off time for the VIPs in your life! On an entirely different note, a standoff between Mars in your sign and Saturn in your interpersonal angle on the 1st calls for patience, since you might feel blocked or tested. If you get frustrated, your actions could seem futile or even hostile. Take constructive criticism if it’s offered. When Mars jostles Uranus on the 3rd, your impressive determination could swerve unexpectedly. You may need to improvise, but don’t shoot off in just any direction or rebel against authority. Find a clever way to pursue your aims. Or consider what you’re chasing after and ask yourself what tweaks you might make to facilitate more meaningful progress. Venus gets the cold shoulder from Saturn on July 6th, so don’t take it personally if people aren’t easily swayed that day. Is there a lesson about relationships to be learned? Then Venus’s tiff with Uranus on the 8th suggests you’re projecting a different image than you intend to. Don’t be in such a rush to get where you’re going. Lucky for Lions, the cosmic lovebirds — Venus and Mars — join forces in your sign on the 13th, alerting the world to the fact that you’re at the top of your game. Crush a creative goal, close a deal or reel in a crush. In other words, use your superpowers well — and stop short of twisting innocent bystanders around your little finger! The sun-Neptune mashup of July 15th brings an opportunity to bond beautifully with someone you care about or dive deep into your own emotions and resurface with a sense of greater peace. Friction between the sun and Pluto on the 17th pits your need for downtime against a compulsion to get tons done. You’re heading for burnout if you keep taking on “just one more thing.” Say no to pressure, regardless of whether its origin is internal or external. Venus faces off with Jupiter on July 22nd, generating an urgent desire to have what you want. Dial down your expectations if you’re in all-or-nothing mode. Oppositions are usually about compromise. After Jupiter reverses into your interpersonal angle on the 28th, where it will linger for the rest of the year, you may find it easier to establish a rapport with other individuals and give people the benefit of the doubt. Relationships are a training ground and a source of personal growth now. You’re learning things that will allow your connections with others to flourish in the long run. You might resume a partnership or collaboration soon. But a Mars-Jupiter imbroglio on the 29th requires you to temper your actions. It’s easy to come on too strong under this influence. A challenging workout would be a great antidote.

VIRGO

August 23–September 22

When Mars in your subliminal corner provokes Saturn on July 1, self-sabotage could rear its ugly head. Pay attention to bottled-up frustration and hidden motives that can cause you to act like your own worst enemy. Conserve your energy and operate off the radar. Your efforts could actually pay off if you focus on them. Mars quarrels with Uranus next, on July 3rd, calling for you to be completely transparent with yourself about what you’re after. And be honest with others as well. Even though you prefer planned action steps, winging it a little may not be a mistake. You can learn something when you improvise, as long as you’re still keeping tabs on any impulse you might have to shoot yourself in the foot. A Venus-Saturn opposition on the 6th can be a buzzkill if you’re trying to relax by yourself or enjoy private time with someone special. Get necessary tasks out of the way before you retreat from the world. Venus’s run-in with Uranus on the 8th highlights friction between your desire to lie low and your hunger for new experiences. Romantic or compassionate feelings can also make you nervous about getting fenced in. But when Venus and Mars canoodle on the 13th, a secret hookup could produce a powerful blend of love and lust. Not into anyone? Sweet, selfless gestures will make both you and the recipient feel good. Then the sun gels with Neptune on July 15th, which should help you hit it off with people and see the best in them. Pair up on a philanthropic effort or do something kind for a loved one. When the sun and Pluto lock into an opposition two days later, doing what makes you happy can stir up drama if a friend is acting like a control freak — or you are. Take the high road! Venus glides into Virgo on the 21st, where she’ll linger until mid-August. This is a time of year when you feel more attractive, outgoing and easy to please. You want to be around people, and the feeling is mutual! Make plans with your favorite folks, especially on the 22nd when Venus’s faceoff with Jupiter heightens your desire for companionship. Craving closeness with your S.O.? They might want more freedom now. There’s also a chance they’ll introduce you to something that grabs your interest. If you’re building another person up in your head, stay open to what they have to offer IRL. Jupiter returns to your work-and-wellness corner on July 28th, which could lead you to pile more on your plate. Between now and the end of the year, you’re apt to take on a range of tasks and responsibilities and might travel for work (if that becomes doable). It’s a good time to implement positive lifestyle changes and create healthy habits. You’ll be extra productive if your work is meaningful to you, but you should be proud of your abilities even when you’re tackling seemingly mundane duties. Mars and Jupiter go head to head on the 29th, pushing you to stay on top of your to-do list. Be sure that busyness isn’t covering up a deeper issue. Take a timeout for beneficial escapes like a catnap or daydream.

LIBRA

September 23–October 22

On July 1st, a confrontation between Mars and Saturn spans your network and fulfillment zones, putting teamwork in jeopardy or quashing your usual enthusiasm for socializing. If you feel cut off from people, it’s possible you’re holding yourself back. Be willing to compromise if you’re collaborating on a creative project. Mars and Uranus do battle on the 3rd, again throwing a wrench into teamwork and group relations. Go with the flow and take a step back if you could use a breather. Productive partnership will require that personal space and power are well-balanced between two parties. And don’t be afraid to look for insights in the dark corners of your mind. You could discover something liberating about yourself! Venus and Saturn go at it on the 6th, and this duel could be a repeat of the Mars-Saturn one on the 1st. Honor how you’re feeling without dwelling on it, because this too shall pass. Your ruling planet’s friction with Uranus on July 8th hints that someone may catch you by surprise. Or you might surprise yourself by hooking up with a friend. Have fun! And don’t try too hard to read between the lines. Intimacy is pretty unpredictable under this influence. The best policy now: Everyone is allowed to be themselves. When you relax and focus on the positive, this transit can produce a win. And when Venus and Mars convene in your humanity house on the 13th, you can definitely make things happen by banding together with like-minded people. Think about joining an organization, making a new friend or scoring a career contact that day. A Covid-safe party could also get the green light. The sun’s chemistry with Neptune on July 15th can give creative work and service to others a major boost. If you lead with your inner artiste and your desire to help, your boss is likely to take notice. The sun plays tug of war with Pluto on the 17th, though, putting your public and private lives at odds. Maybe you’re determined to shine on a big stage but need to take care of a problem at home or shrug off a bad mood first. On July 22nd, thanks to friction between Venus and Jupiter, you may have tons to do — but you’d also love to indulge your urge to unwind off the grid. Be realistic about what you can accomplish today. Once Jupiter reenters your joy sector on the 28th, having a good time becomes a bigger priority. Look for opportunities in the next several months to show off your personality and your creative streak. You could pick up where you left off with a paramour or some other source of fulfillment such as a hobby. Romance and fun start to feel easier to come by, and going out on a limb for something that could make you very happy seems worth it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained! Mars challenges Jupiter on the 29th, however, which might compel you to compromise between personal pleasure and group interests. Luckily, Libras know how to keep everyone happy!

SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

Your co-ruler, Mars, is trekking across the top of your chart, revving up your ambition throughout the month. But when he throws darts at Saturn on July 1st, your home life or family obligations might slow you down. If you’re aiming to achieve big goals and feel thwarted, something about where you come from will likely be the holdup. Whether it’s as straightforward as a promised lunch with your mom or as complex as insecurity stemming from childhood, don’t let it stop you in your tracks; just modify your game plan. Mars and Uranus irritate each other on the 3rd, again hinting that you need to adapt your actions — this time to accommodate a relationship or another person (not Mom!) Remember that people have their own agendas, and don’t allow anyone to detract from your success. You might need to each do your own thing. A Venus-Saturn showdown on the 6th could be a repeat of the one between Mars and Saturn on the 1st. If you’re schmoozing higher-ups or showing off your creative abilities, taking a break to deal with something closer to home might be a nuisance, but try not to let it kill your momentum. Venus gets into trouble with Uranus two days later, making it harder to project the image that you’d like to. If you’re not too attached to getting a specific response and are willing to switch up your strategy with someone, you’ll be just fine. When Venus and Mars tango on the 13th, positive PR and concrete actions go hand in hand. Zero in on a project you’re passionate about and charm a mentor into helping you. On the love front, you could be attracted to someone senior to you (in years or status) or set mutual goals with your significant other. The sun syncs with Neptune on July 15, daring you to stay far out of your comfort zone. Doing so will put the happiness, creative fulfillment, spiritual connection and romance you yearn for within your grasp. But when the sun faces off with Pluto on July 17th, a difference of opinion could blow up into something much bigger if you’re not careful. Choose your battles wisely and don’t divulge too much. A Venus-Jupiter encounter on the 22nd can turn a friend into a friend with benefits or lead to epic fun with your squad. Either way, you win! Jupiter heads back down to your foundation angle on July 28th and will hover there for the remainder of the year. Family support will feel more abundant and forthcoming — and your relationship with your mother can benefit from this influence. You might spruce up your space, move to a bigger place or relocate far away. Visiting your relatives also becomes more doable. When Mars and Jupiter butt heads on the 29th, your desire to indulge in the comforts of home could compete with your urge to accomplish big things. You’re pushing yourself hard and may need to take turns crushing goals and crashing on the couch.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

You’re dying to break free and try new things but might have reservations on July 1st, due to a Mars-Saturn impasse. Awareness of the rules and a realistic mindset can keep you from venturing too far out of bounds, despite your intrepid spirit. Is there a way to meet in the middle between pie-in-the-sky and down-in-the-dumps? You still want to push those boundaries on the 3rd when Mars and Uranus rub each other the wrong way. This time, health, work or other inevitable circumstances can throw a wrench into things. Try improvising to get some progress going. Find a clever workaround, zipping off in an unexpected direction. Venus and Saturn scuffle on the 6th, so you’ll think twice (more like thrice!) about exploring greener pastures. Go ahead and weigh risks, but don’t become uncharacteristically pessimistic. Just be smart about how you enjoy life now. With Venus and Mars aligned on the 13th, you’re finally inspired to go for broke. Make the first move on someone who’s not totally your type. Or try your hand at something that’s not for the faint of heart. You might even take (or book) a big trip — finally! The sun and Neptune are in cahoots on July 15th, paving the way for bonding, healing and forgiveness. Carve out alone time or private time with someone special. You’ll be glad you did. The sun goes up against Pluto on the 17th, complicating closeness if you’re feeling unsure of yourself or you’re preoccupied with getting what you need from someone. Venus and Jupiter have a similar encounter on July 22nd — only this time, you’ll feel more confident. And that in turn can help you to dazzle power players. Just be careful not to overplay your hand. With this planetary pairing, you run the risk of appearing arrogant. Don’t swing too far in the other direction and hide what you have to offer the world, though. Show off your gifts, especially creative ones. Jupiter’s return to your cognition-and-communication sector on July 28th can speed up your thought process and the pace of daily interactions. You could revisit things you learned awhile back, start writing (perhaps rewriting) a lot, and connect with people far and wide. The rest of 2021 is a fertile period for meeting fresh faces, extending your reach through communication, getting involved in your community and improving sibling relationships. It will be worth your while to read as much as possible, seek out new ideas, talk to people who are very different from you and take short trips — especially if your natural wanderlust has been frustrated by the inability to take a big one. Honest conversations are a plus, as long as you’re mindful of staying off the soapbox. When Mars and Jupiter oppose each other on the 29th, it might be hard to stop yourself from preaching, so rein it in a little if you get carried away defending your own POV. A healthy dose of curiosity will allow you to listen attentively. Jupiter’s aim is to continue broadening your perception. Make that your aim too! A learning opportunity is worth more to you in the long run than a debate win.

CAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

When Mars opposes your ruling planet on the 1st of July, you might feel stymied by insecurity if you’re pushing to get something from another person. The fear of what you’re lacking (or fear of losing what you do have) can get in the way of closeness and sharing. Trying to change something within yourself? Avoid clinging to what you think you need. Mars provokes Uranus on the 3rd, speeding up intimacy. One party is likely to want more personal space if things heat up too fast. If you’re the pursuer, bear in mind you might not get the exact response you’re after. That’s not the end of the world! The real conflict might be playing out inside you, with part of you desiring closeness and part of you preferring more independence. Or a fun distraction can foil an intention to concentrate on a specific thing. Venus-Saturn tension on July 6th again prevents sharing openly if fear takes over. Don’t let insecurity win, but do protect your own interests if you know for certain it’s the smartest strategy in this situation. A Venus-Uranus clash two days later can shake up your love life if sex or flirtation takes you by surprise. Expecting the unexpected may leave you with a smile on your face, as long as you don’t assume too much too soon. Venus’s tryst with Mars on July 13th blends magnetic attraction and bold moves. No partner in sight? No worries! Seek out the support you want — financial or otherwise. Or tune into your deepest emotions, with the goal of recovering from a loss, crisis or wound that’s been festering. Bonding with a good friend is another positive possibility. The sun-Neptune confab of July 17th can help you pick up the subtlest signals, put yourself in other people’s shoes and convey your compassion. When the sun opposes Pluto in Capricorn on the 17th, loosen your grip so you can sidestep a blowup. Of course you’d like to be in control, but there’s a better-than-average chance you’ll come on like gangbusters, even if you don’t mean to. A Venus-Jupiter face-to-face on the 22nd can cause your enthusiasm to soar. Someone from an unfamiliar corner of the world might open your mind. And the best part is, opening your mind is the very thing that will help you connect with people from all walks of life. Win-win! If you’re lucky enough to be traveling, you’re bound to meet up with interesting characters. Sticking close to home? Explore a neighborhood or check out a cultural event. The idea is to widen your lens. Then Jupiter reverses into your worth zone on the 28th, settling down there for the rest of 2021. Start asking yourself how you can make the most of your assets, become more self-sufficient, increase your income and boost your self-esteem. You might reshuffle your priorities after contemplating whether you’re being guided by your highest values. You’d be wise to learn more about finances this year. Mars and Jupiter face off the next day, which could pose problems in the financial arena. Is there a better way of integrating mine and ours? Relationship harmony depends on a firm grasp of priorities.

AQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

Focusing on your personal agenda can make equal partnership a little difficult when Mars confronts Saturn in Aquarius on the 1st. Maybe you’re too tired to hash things out with somebody, and they could get frustrated, thinking you’re uncooperative. If you want peace, compromise, compromise, compromise! Next, Mars crosses swords with Uranus on the 3rd, increasing the odds that a person’s behavior will annoy you. Pay attention to your own mood. What’s going on inside you is a major factor here. The better you understand yourself, the better you’ll handle whatever arises. If your family or home life disrupts a relationship, be ready to improvise. You may be perfectly willing to play ball, but you can’t predict everything that might happen. Fortunately, you’re great at fielding curveballs. On July 6th, a Venus-Saturn opposition can pit your desire for companionship against the aloof image you might be projecting inadvertently. If you’re lonely, consider whether you’re isolating yourself — possibly because you’re feeling serious or shy. Balance discipline and pleasure. Try to build a bridge between yourself and others, no matter how preoccupied you are. When Uranus sends out shockwaves on the 8th, your living situation, emotions or relatives can impact how well you’re getting along with other people. Again, a willingness to think on your feet and adapt will help. Your own urge for change could be at the root of all this. Venus and Mars unite on the 13th, restoring harmony in your relationships — but not to the point of boredom! This planetary pair hints at desire and attraction. If you’re not into anybody, this energy is also perfect for shared fun and creative collabs. The sun’s chemistry with Neptune on July 15th encourages you to draw on your own creative talents. Let your spiritual values steer you toward the best path. Pluto’s standoff with the sun two days later pushes you to deal with what’s in your subconscious in order to promote wellness and productivity. When Venus and Jupiter go toe to toe on the 22nd, a feeling of intimacy can trigger a confidence surge. Or conversely, feeling good about yourself can lead to closeness. Even if you’re feeling needy and vulnerable, you have a good shot at getting what you ask for. The next night, a full moon in Aquarius calls for you to put your feelings first and do what you need to do to take care of yourself. Letting go of something (or even someone) now can take a weight off your shoulders and help you move on with your life. On the 28th, Jupiter’s return to your sign doubles down on the theme of personal growth. You’ll feel more optimistic and able to envision where you’re headed. Learn what you’re capable of by exploring new possibilities. Stay open to fresh opportunities and have the courage to experiment. You could feel like you’re too much for some people when Mars duels with Jupiter on July 29th, but as long as you’re representing yourself honestly and not acting like you have all the answers, this friction will blow over quickly. Constructive feedback and enthusiastic collaborations could come out of it.

PISCES

February 19–March 20

If you have unfinished business to attend to on the 1st, you may find it hard to accomplish what you’ve set out to do, thanks to a Mars-Saturn standoff. Self-doubt, guilt or an old way of doing things could also hamper your productivity. Working off the grid at a slower pace will help. A Mars-Uranus run-in on the 3rd could compel you to take a needed break. After you recharge your battery, switch your M.O. to get something done. Inventive thinking can show you a better way to achieve a goal. Anxious about your health or job? A change of scene or impromptu convo can clear your head. Venus’s spat with Saturn on July 6th can cause you to question your ability to do the work you want to do or make you hesitate to help someone. It’s always good to listen to your intuition, as long as you’re not letting fear rule you. When Venus and Uranus feud on the 8th, keep thinking on your feet to concoct creative solutions to problems. Indecisiveness could make it more challenging to enjoy what you’re doing. Again, building breaks into your routine might be the best antidote. Since Venus and Mars gel on the 13th, amiability and assertiveness will complement each other perfectly. Mars helps you get tons done, while Venus convinces you not to do it all yourself. Be more proactive about improving your wellbeing, and snag support to make that mission easier. Recruit an exercise partner or ask a friend for tips on going gluten-free. You’ll have a fantastic opportunity to be seen for who you really are when the sun meshes with Neptune on July 15. The sun can burn off Neptune’s fog, which has a tendency to put up a smokescreen between you and others. Now’s the time to let your personality and passion shine! You’ll feel more genuinely connected to people you love. A sun-Pluto spat on the 17th could leave you torn between doing your own thing and caving to peer pressure. Ignore the haters — and block trolls! When Jupiter in Pisces comes face to face with Venus on July 22, you might fall for someone new or meet a person who will have a positive impact on your life. Other individuals can inspire you now — and vice versa. On the 28th, Jupiter exits Pisces and will hide out in the last house of your chart for the remainder of 2021. You’re bound to become more circumspect and feel a bit aimless, compared to how you felt with Jupiter in your sign these last couple of months. Tune in to your subconscious — something Pisces does best! Reflect on your dreams, the past, intuitive inklings and imaginative wanderings. Prioritize your spiritual practice. Heed your inner wisdom. Let go of anything (and anyone) that isn’t good for you. Forgive and forget. The next day’s Mars-Jupiter opposition challenges you to balance all that with the need to get stuff done in the outer world. Do your best to answer both the call of your soul and the call of reality.

ARIES

March 21–April 19

When Mars throws down the gauntlet with Saturn on July 1st, going after what you want won’t align neatly with group interests. You seem to have a choice between doing as you please and conforming to others’ expectations. If you can have it both ways, count yourself lucky. Just don’t try to wrestle anyone onto your wavelength. Next, Mars skirmishes with Uranus on the 3rd, hinting that erratic finances, priorities or confidence will affect your love life or fun. If you really want something, find a different way to get it. Where there’s a will, there’s a way! A Venus-Saturn standoff on the 6th echoes the one between Mars and Saturn on the 1st. It’s possible a romance won’t get your squad’s stamp of approval, or a creative project won’t receive a round of applause. Listen to feedback if it’s well-intended and useful, but don’t simply let other people rob you of joy. When Venus quibbles with Uranus on July 8th, stay flexible and try not to attach your emotions to specific needs. Just use what you have going for you, and you’ll be able to have a good time. It may not be as straightforward as you’d like, but you can get past this bump in the road and gain a better understanding of what’s important. Venus and Mars form an alliance on the 13th, and you can maximize this fortuitous pairing through a creative activity, love affair or pretty much any pleasure that suits you. Relish the feeling of being you and following your heart. Now you possess both a bold edge and a soft touch! When the sun and Neptune join forces on the 15th, you have full permission from the universe to unplug and unwind. Being is favored over doing when Neptune is in the mix. Sneak off by yourself or enjoy peace and quiet with a loved one. The sun and Pluto go head to head on July 17th, spelling tension with higher-ups or parents. Or you might feel conflicted between resting on your laurels and attempting to make major progress. Venus and Jupiter have their own faceoff on July 22nd, which could produce a big burst of creative output. Or you might be tempted to ditch the daily grind and escape for a while. You’ll love the feeling of being needed if you’re moved to make a generous sacrifice now. Once Jupiter reverses into your humanity house on the 28th, your faith in achieving new goals and assembling a network of people on similar paths will increase. You’re shifting gears and should reach out to others who share your interests, ideals and aspirations. You can teach and inspire each other. You could also revisit a philanthropic effort in the coming months. Team collaborations should do well, so remember even independent Rams shouldn’t go it alone all the time. A Mars-Jupiter dustup on the 29th could put you in the mood for a large gathering and over-the-top pleasure. Take what life offers! But be smart about pandemic protections.

TAURUS

April 20–May 20

Try not to slip into an old behavior pattern when Mars and Saturn disagree on July 1st. A household project or family strife could also cause problems for you. You’re doing your best to achieve something in the world but shouldn’t ignore matters closer to home that day. Mars has a showdown with Uranus in Taurus on the 3rd, activating your inner rebel. What needs to change now? How can you change it? Brainstorming various ways to make things happen will prevent you from getting irritable. You’re chomping at the bit and need to try a nontraditional approach. Doable action steps and a realistic schedule will increase your odds of success. Your ruling planet, Venus, throws down with Saturn on the 6th, presenting you with a dilemma. Relish downtime or tackle responsibilities? Ideally, both! When Uranus fends off a challenge from Venus on July 8th, your patience with a relative or roomie could wear thin. Free yourself from stuck emotions before you overreact to people in your space. Maybe someone who’s known you forever hasn’t adjusted to the person you’re evolving into. Or you could be super restless and finding it hard to relax. Get out and do your own thing if you’re about to combust. Venus and Mars hook up on the 13th, which could lead to satisfying emotional bonding. If you’re crushing on someone new, they’ll probably be familiar to you or feel like family. Sun-Neptune chemistry on the 15th signals more effortless connection — this time with friends or friends of friends. Speaking your truth will help you get in sync with others. You might also stick up for someone under this influence. When the sun and Pluto go head to head on the 17th, a heated debate might ensue. Resist the impulse to score points. Venus and Jupiter follow suit on July 22nd, pitting your fulfillment against group expectations. Your creative expression, love life and personal happiness are on one side of the seesaw, with friendship, team camaraderie and ideals on the other. Do what you can to balance — possibly by enjoying life to the fullest with a big group of people or by contributing to a collaborative effort. Hoping your squad will support your passion? There’s a good chance they will. After Jupiter returns to the peak of your chart on the 28th, your ambition is bound to surge. Recognition should be more forthcoming in the next several months. Don’t shy away from responsibility; you’re supposed to aim high. A promotion or work trip could be in the cards. A high level of confidence will help you climb the ladder, but it can also make you resist deferring to superiors. A career mentor can nudge you onto the right path if you’re searching for your vocation or you’re not sure how to get where you want to go. When Mars and Jupiter argue on the 29th, don’t push yourself too hard. Get some stuff done around the house and attend to any troubling feelings that are coming up.

GEMINI

May 21–June 20

Your thoughts and opinions seem to fall on deaf ears when Mars and Saturn duke it out on July 1st. If your audience is more buttoned-up or more established than you are, it could be especially trying for you. Or maybe you’re trying to go somewhere, and progress is frustratingly slow. You can’t fight City Hall, as the saying goes. Mars squabbles with Uranus two days later, calling for you to think before you speak. Put an alternate spin on your pitch if you’re trying to sell your ideas. An unconscious urge to rock the boat is coloring your communication and your thought process. Let another side of you show up in your interactions instead of suppressing it. Pushing it down can backfire on you. Venus and Saturn have a face-to-face scheduled for the 6th, suggesting that concerns about the future might detract from the pleasures of the moment. If you’re too worried about interpreting words and intent, your outlook won’t be very rosy — so ease up. On the 8th, a Venus-Uranus entanglement encourages you to tune in to whatever is going on in the back of your head. Unplanned words can throw a conversation off-kilter. You could surprise yourself by flirting with someone unexpected. Harmless entertainment will keep you from getting bored. When Venus and Mars pair up on the 13th, you could drop the L-bomb for the first time if you’re in a fairly new relationship. This is an ideal chance to assert yourself charmingly, so you might pitch a creative concept as well. Community activism and beautification are also favored, and they can lift your spirits — not to mention connect you with cool people. The sun and Neptune enjoy amazing chemistry on July 15th, implying that you can do spiritually meaningful, imaginative work when you concentrate on your core values. Don’t hesitate to share your gifts with the world now. The sun and Pluto spar on July 17th, increasing the odds that you’re identifying very strongly with your own needs. Sharing is complicated that day, so tread lightly and be willing to meet others halfway. Work-life balance is even more elusive than usual when Venus and Jupiter oppose each other on July 22nd. But you might enjoy a rewarding encounter with an authority figure or throw a successful party. Find a way to blend aspiration and relaxation if you possibly can. After Jupiter returns to your exploration corner on the 28th, your wanderlust could kick in. If a big trip isn’t in the cards later this year, at least shoot for growth experiences that will allow you to spread your wings and learn more about life. Your search for meaning is spurring you to ask big life questions. Stay open to a wide range of beliefs, philosophies and viewpoints so you can grow into a more conscious human being. A Mars-Jupiter altercation on the 29th can lead to a difference of opinion, though. Go ahead and fight if your cause is just, but don’t get drawn into a pointless argument.