Horoscopes: Wednesday, August 12

ARIES: (March 21 to April 20)
There is more than one way around a sticky situation. The secret is to combine common sense and creativity while putting aside emotional bias. Answers are reached only after deliberation of the various options.

TAURUS: (April 21 to May 21)
You value different points of view. Moon moving into your sign deepens understanding, prompting you to pay more respect than usual to diverse opinions, methods or values. Doubts about others slowly dissipate.

GEMINI: (May 22 to June 21)
Your words may be provocative but they grab peoples' attention. What you need is immediate assistance, including the input of ideas or resources from close associates. Confidence is the key to selling yourself.

CANCER: (June 22 to July 23)
Your uncanny instincts alert you to potential problems. To the outside world you may seem distracted but in truth very little escapes your eagle eye. Take control in situations that require a sharp mind.

LEO: (July 24 to August 23)
The time is ripe to make a play for power. Moon moving towards the ambitious sector unleashes your competitive streak and gives you distinct advantage over those who are complacent or lacking guile.

VIRGO: (August 24 to September 23)
Success is easier the second time around. Dualistic Mercury in Virgo shows you alternative ways to make your mark on the world and improve personal relationships. Your intellect is now in top gear.

LIBRA: (September 24 to October 23)
If someone twists the truth you quickly unravel it. The rose-coloured glasses are off and you are now the master of playing people at their own game. Empty promises mean nothing to perceptive Librans.

SCORPIO: (October 24 to November 22)
By putting positive spin on events you escape criticism. Just remember to keep a track of your own truth to avoid inadvertently tripping yourself up in the future. Composure at all costs is the secret.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 to December 22)
Rivalry acts as impetus for you to do better. Whenever your sincerity or intelligence is questioned, you become more precious about your place in the pecking order and move swiftly. Attack is the best defence.

CAPRICORN: (December 23 to January 20)
A new opportunity carries risks but still has plenty of potential. Weigh up the pros and cons before making a commitment, especially when financial investment is required. If you have the means, act alone.

AQUARIUS: (January 21 to February 19)
You opt for openness in both personal and professional relationships. You social conscience keeps you honest and satisfaction is found in letting people know exactly how you feel. Diplomacy is an optional extra.

PISCES: (February 20 to March 20)
Lively interaction with others meets your needs. Slick energy from Mercury sharpens your tongue and wit, while social Venus brings a variety of people into your life. Useful information can be collected today.

YOUR DAY
Self-sufficiency is encouraged today. Reliance on others may lead to disappointment or imperfect outcomes, while a proactive approach makes people responsible for their own failures and successes.

YOUR BIRTHDAY
Your feisty determination comes to the fore. Rather than indulging personal whims, you work steadily towards a goal and make sacrifices for the sake of success. That hard work brings ample reward.