VIRGO HOROSCOPE

You might want to consider using a softer approach when communicating with those in power. One department head in particular is in a position to do a lot for you as long as you don't come across as aggressive and demanding. It's true that you have a stellar track record and it's high time for you to be recognized for it; however, superiors like to come to that conclusion on their own and can resent being guilt-tripped into doing something that they were planning to do anyway. Continue to exercise your considerable charm and powers of persuasion and you will surely get what's yours.

We often talk about making our dreams come true, but there are times when it's our dreams that make us come true. As an earth sign you're not a big believer in visualization. It sounds too much like daydreaming, which is what escapists do when they should be hard at work; however, focusing on work instead of your vision for the future is like putting the cart before the horse. They say if you want to know God, then build an altar and the Deity will come. Putting your dream before drudge work is not only inspirational, it also shows you where to go.

You know what you're good at. You fill a certain niche at work, follow a set routine, and are always on call when someone needs you. It's gotten you far and you like it; however, your job performance has come to the attention of certain superiors who'd like you to take on more. They see you as someone who could run things more smoothly or produce better results. The question is: do you? It's flattering to be held in such high regard, but think about the lifestyle changes and whether they're worth it. Nobody's ready to make the offer yet, but they will be soon.

Mercury opposite Neptune is never a good time to make a financial decision (September 12th). Worse than a square and more treacherous than a retrograde, you could find yourself on the verge of getting fleeced by a wolf in sheep's clothing. What makes this situation even more difficult is that the only way out is to cut your losses. Go ahead and cut them. Yes, it's quite a sum to part with, but the Mercury/Pluto trine taking place on the same day shows you'll be amply rewarded for your sacrifice. Pluto always blesses those who brave its ordeals, but you have to brave them first.

You may find yourself slowing down now that the finish line is in sight. It’s funny how ambivalent people get when they’re in reach of accomplishing a long-sought goal. You'd think that they'd rush ahead to seize their prize and not procrastinate or fritter away their time. Perhaps it’s based on the fear that if you achieve this one great thing, then that’s it. You've peaked and it's all over. If that's the case, then don't worry. You’re not some one-hit wonder. There are more successes to come and they will surely be yours once you step into the winner’s circle on September 10th.

The Lunar Eclipse on August 28th could bring an end to a long-term relationship or association. If it does, then it's because it lost all vitality long ago. Chances are you both knew you would part company one day and that day is now. If, however, you and a certain someone are still standing shoulder to shoulder, then you know your bond is lasting. The only thing left to do is to tear up that scorecard you've been keeping and start afresh. You've survived the worst the Stars had to throw at you and that's something more validating than any vow renewal ceremony could be.

You're used to jumping through hoops but the current obstacle course is ridiculous. In fact it's beginning to feel like the game is rigged against you. The culprit is Saturn retrograde in that part of your solar chart that pertains to other people's money. Retrograde Saturn is a withholding energy which might explain why a lending agency or financial institution has been dragging its feet when it comes to approving your loan or releasing funds. Thankfully a Mercury/Saturn trine on August 17th shows a third party intervening on your behalf. You may never discover who this is but you'll surely enjoy the results on August 27th.

We all want to be the best that we can be, but Virgos want to be better. People often talk about Virgo's perfectionism, but not so much about their competitive side. Now you might not think of yourself that way because you're genuinely modest and self-effacing; however, you were born under Mercury and Mercury always enjoys outwitting and outperforming. Over the next 6½ weeks you'll be introduced to someone who's clearly better at what you do than you are. Instead of treating this person like a rival, why not study what makes them so good? That in and of itself will improve your performance.

You can tell you weren't someone's first choice, but being a Virgo you never let your pride get in the way of something that could prove beneficial. If anything, you see this as a challenge to get this person to see you as having been the best choice all along. But how do you change their thinking? Obviously your efficiency and attention to detail speak volumes, but you need something more showy to win them over. Thankfully Ruling Planet Mercury enters the zodiac sign of Leo on August 9th. This gives you the dazzle and audacity to make the kind of impression that won't be forgotten.

They say that a bird in hand is worth two in the bush and that's something you'll want to keep in mind on July 29th when Mars squares Venus. Mars can be reckless when it's in Gemini, a zodiac sign famous for gaming, and you could find yourself being pressured by friends or associates to take a gamble. Well, they may have nothing to lose, but you do, which is why you'll want to take Venus's side in the square. Venus in Virgo isn't showy, but she's crafty which means you'll wind up collecting the winnings as long as you commit to the long game.