Today’s Birthday (03/01/16). Professional efforts pay this year. Consider your dream collaboration. Eclipses highlight new beginnings for you personally (3/8), and for a partnership (9/1). Reach a turning point in shared finances (3/23), and self-image (9/16). Begin a lucrative two-year phase on 9/9 … all for family and love.

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 an 8 — Launch a change, Track account balances. You’re especially persuasive now. Respect age and authority. Make a private arrangement. Accept help when offered. Build a strong foundation, one step at a time. Less interference is better.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

— Today is a 7 — The completion of a difficult project opens up time for something more fun. Slow down and play with talented people. Practice to learn new skills. Learn the rules before taking risks and add beautiful flourishes.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

— Today is a 7 — A new endeavor tempts. Collect data and sift through the fluff. Make an honest assessment of income and outgo. Adapt and compromise. Travel when traffic is better. Responsibilities fall into place. Wait to share results.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

— Today is a 7 — True love is not after your loot. Nurture home and family without spending on extravagances. Create peace with simple luxuries like tea and candles. It could be a difficult time to be on the road. Settle down.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

— Today is a 7 — Studies and travels reveal hidden beauty today. Stick to practical expenses and keep written records; As communication glitches may arise. Stay focused to avoid accidents or pitfalls. Rely on experience, and stick to trusted methods.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

— Today is a 6 — Consider upcoming family expenses. Balance self-discipline with your generous heart. Invest in home, family and real estate. You can see what wasn’t working. To pass a formidable barrier, collaborate with someone who sees your blind spot.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

— Today is a 7 — Listen to advice from a female with your best interests at heart. Slow down to avoid obstacles. Prepare your message, but post it later. Resist the temptation to  over-share or spend. Set a new course.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

— Today is an 8 — A conflict between love and money could arise. Invest in home and family. Limit excessive spending. Sidestep a costly mistake. Don’t get talked out of what you want. Music, soft lighting and delicious fragrances soothe.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

— Today is a 9 — Develop plans for new projects. Try a new style to suit your new role. Dress for the part you want. Practice mental and physical discipline. Study the rules thoroughly. Friends help you advance.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

— Today is a 6 — Love helps you stay on the right path. Postpone a shopping trip. Don’t spend money you don’t have. Wait to see what develops. Practice your skills and arts. Do what worked before. Follow your plans.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

— Today is a 7 — Keep your objective in mind. Fact and fantasy clash. Navigate the most solid road. Don’t get distracted buying stuff you don’t need. Clear clutter and earn space. Achieve harmony in solitude. Play by the rules.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

— Today is an 8 — Self-discipline enables creativity. Release an old fantasy to get something real. New information dispels old fears. Don’t participate in gossip or provoke jealousies. Keep your word, and keep it respectful. Opportunity is knocking … answer the door.

(Astrologer Nancy Black continues her mother Linda Black’s legacy horoscopes column. She welcomes comments and questions on Twitter, @lindablack. For more astrological interpretations visit Linda Black Horoscopes and www.nancyblack.com)

(c)2016 bY NANCY BLACK. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.