Horoscopes: Monday, 13 July

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
You resolve problems your way. Not everyone follows your reasoning but people are prepared to place their trust in you. Protocol and practicality do not have top priority for Aries natives today.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
An idea has merit and is worthy of debate. Kick start events by planting a seed then follow up once others have taken your suggestions on board. You have a very good eye for detail.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
You elbow your way into situations and show plenty of nerve. Mars, the planet of dynamic action, moves into your sign bringing with it a sense of urgency and renewed motivation. Strike while the iron is hot.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Rather than flying blind you scope situations out first. Vigorous Mars inf1uences your thinking and reason replaces hunches in the decision-making process. You leave no stone unturned and opt for a hands-on approach.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
Your outward composure belies inner concerns. Play to personal strengths and
avoid situations that make you feel vulnerable or exploited. Most of your worries will ultimately prove unfounded but in the meantime, learn to relax.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
A healthy dose of competition keeps you mentally pumped. Even the love-hate relationship you share with someone provides stimulation and solid debate. Your
verbal skills are given a good workout.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
You are in the thick of action. Electrifying Mars strikes the sector ruling culture and travel, inspiring you to step beyond your usual boundaries and follow through with bold ideas. Try balancing idealism with realism.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
The shackles come off and your individuality surfaces. Newfound freedom sees you snapping up opportunities, revitalising relationships or updating your image and appearance. You can create your own destiny.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
Be careful you don't blow issues out of proportion. Dramatic energy causes you to exaggerate and play the emotional card when it suits a particular purpose. Others may be thrown by your atypical behaviour.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
You put a positive spin on events. Moon in the zone of interaction helps you compose convincing arguments and justify actions others are sceptical about. You eventually win some cynics over but not all.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
To create a good first impression show off your uniqueness. Being different is an asset, so take extra care with your appearance and don't be afraid to suggest left-field ideas to others.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
Your ability to unite people stems from inner understanding. Moon in Pisces heightens perception and you gain maximum advantage by bringing together like-minded souls for worthy causes. Mediation is another speciality.

YOUR DAY
Generosity of spirit overrides practical considerations. People are inclined to give the benefit of the doubt and rob themselves of opportunities in order to help others. Burdens and secrets are shared today.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
You are master of your own fate. By visualising goals for the year ahead and earnestly working towards them, dreams become self-fulfilling prophecies. Others benefit from the trickle-down effect.