Today’s Birthday (01/18/16). Align your career and heart this year. Complete jobs you don’t enjoy. Grow your skills, infrastructure and network for support. Practice and meditate on desired results. Your communications magic this spring sparks a two-year professional growth phase. Travel and learn this autumn, sharing discoveries. Study your passion.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries

(March 21-April 19) — Today is a 7 — Wait on a final decision. The facts you need can be found. Get help from your crew. Don’t overdo where food is involved. It could get awkward. Let your partner take the lead. Take it all philosophically.

Taurus

(April 20-May 20) — Today is a 9 — Foreign contacts love your ideas. It’s a good time to ask for money. Don’t brag … your work speaks for itself. Your influence is spreading. Focus on each activity. Good news comes from far away.

Gemini

(May 21-June 20) — Today is a 6 — Friends help you make an important connection. There’s more work coming in. Keep your sense of humor. Acknowledge those who give you support. Keep your objective in mind. The more supportive you are, the more you gain.

Cancer

(June 21-July 22) — Today is a 7 — Work doesn’t go according to plan. Finish up old business so you can invest in your dream. Calm another’s fears. Explore your passions. You can make it happen. Consult a significant other. Love gives you strength.

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 7 — Listening is more powerful than speaking, especially today. Sudden outbursts could have regretful consequences. Slow and steady wins the race. Don’t overspend on stuff you don’t need. Work out the budget before committing to details.

Virgo

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Today is an 8 — Accept a creative challenge. Who can you get to help? It could get profitable. Design your costume. Seek solid data and expert assistance. Ask friends and family for their views. Find an answer in a dream.

Libra

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — Today is a 7 — Your peace of mind is increasing. Give praise where praise is due. Nurture compassion, for yourself and others. Help someone understand. Count your blessings. Accept assistance. Provide support. Gratitude grows your heart stronger.

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is an 8 — You have what you need, if you can just find it. Financial help arrives, but not as hoped. Breakdown! Call for reinforcements. Express your love and gratitude. The best things in life are still free.

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8 — Your compassion for another is growing. You’re attractive, and attracted. Remain open to shifting circumstances. Do you let romance sneak into the picture? Move carefully as you dance. Don’t step on anyone. Follow a friend’s recommendation.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 7 — There’s more work coming in. You’re looking good. And you have an ace up your sleeve. Keep confidences and secrets, but it’s OK to let your feelings show. It’s an excellent time to get outside.

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 6 — Fun today could include getting out, around the corner or across the world. Or exploration could occur through a book or documentary film. Get a boost from far away. Enjoy simple pleasures with family and friends.

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 7 — Be charming with someone who outranks you. Act quickly to resolve a domestic issue. Avoid excess and waste. Learn from and with another. Concur with an expert on the most sensible option for a household upgrade.