Horoscopes: Pauses and preludes By Imhotep Non-verbal cues work wonders, my dear Crabs, as people born under the Cardinal Water sign of Cancer (22 Jun-22 Jul) are sometimes called. Sometimes, with all the excitement, flirtation can move quicker than you expect. If you're not comfortable with this rapid pace, slow things down. Be subtle about it, though. Yes, it is time once again for another serious conversation, but don't run off just yet -- no matter what happened last time. This talk is just about guaranteed to turn out not just well, but extremely well. You may even reach a whole new level of understanding you would have never imagined possible before. Being open and honest is a great thing, but there is also that little syndrome known as "too much information". It's all about careful self-editing, especially if you and you-know-who are just starting to click. Force yourself to do the healthy and mature thing when it comes to dealing with your love life. That might just mean cutting an old flame from your life entirely. Do what's best for you -- and do it soon. Indeed, anything that plays up your ability to relay information should move to the top of your priority list. Work on honing your communication skills and you'll see immediate results both on the job and at home. It is time to recharge yourself, my dear Lions, as people born under the Fixed Fire sign of Leo (23 Jul-22 Aug) are sometimes called, and that includes your wallets. Spend some quite evenings alone or with the kids at home. Your spirits will benefit in a major way if you withdraw a little from your social calendar. Sometimes, you want nothing more than to stay at home curled up with a good book. Why not do just that? Don't force yourself to do anything that you don't genuinely want to do. Despite all that fuss you made about your independence, at heart you need to be with someone. The first step is being honest about it. Now it is time to decide what you want in a mate. Lions are notorious for their proverbial bravery, but sometimes it pays to be cautious. It is a wise idea to step out of the way of trouble, especially when you see it coming a mile away. While you could usually diffuse this situation, right now discretion is definitely the better part of valour. Indeed, taking a supportive role might be the most beneficial thing for the group dynamic. While this might not feel entirely natural to you, you may actually like being more of a behind- the-scene type. Helping other people should always be a priority in your life, but make sure that they don't become too dependent on you. Helping someone is most effective when you teach them how to do for themselves what they want you to do for them. When it comes to the battlefield of love, my dear Virgoans, as people born under the Mutable Earth sign of Virgo (23 Aug-22 Sep) are sometimes called, you may be looking for an honourable discharge -- for now. The stars say it is a good idea to rest, rejuvenate and relax. The next encounter will be much more promising. Take it easy and unwind. It is about time you recognise the direct relationship between clear and effective communication and tangibly improved results both on the job and in your personal life. What can you do to remove static? In the run up to Saint Valentine, you should consider speaking more frankly with anyone you are romantically attached to. But the onus of this love talk must be on the future, and not the past. If one or both of you start rehashing the past, though, don't let it continue for long -- unless it is along happy lines. Other than that, guide the conversation towards the future. In any case, make an effort to broaden your horizons both socially and professionally. Maybe this means taking a class or thinking about getting a higher degree. Maybe it is time to join a work- related association. Look out next week for Imhotep's reading of Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius
