Happy birthday for Aug. 14: When in doubt, delve into research, educational pursuits and questioning experts. Focus on personal growth and what makes you happy. Explore the possibilities, and refuse to let anyone stand in your way. Your numbers are 3, 16, 22, 24, 32, 37, 49.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Advocate personally, professionally and medically on your behalf. Do your research, ask direct questions and decide what’s best for you. Don’t let the outside influences dictate your fate. Trust your instincts, follow your heart and use forward thinking to reach your goal. HHHHH

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Pay attention to your spending habits. Indulgent behavior, trying to buy favors or failing to resist temptation will lead to emotional backlash. Talk to someone you trust or go to someone in an authoritative position to ensure you make the most cost-efficient decision. HHH

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Oversee every change personally. If you allow someone to take control, the outcome will disappoint you. Set standards and put your wish list in place, and you’ll figure out what’s feasible and how to make it happen. Refuse to let emotional issues escalate or lead to poor decisions. HHH

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Discipline, continuity, and going beyond the call of duty will pay off. An open dialogue will help solve pending problems and point you in a direction that brings about positive change and eases stress that can lead to illness and regret. Choose peace over chaos. HHH

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Step into the spotlight and do what you do best; use your skills. Don’t let anyone talk you into spending on things you don’t need or make you feel inadequate. Recognize your attributes, present what you can offer and make things happen. HHHHH

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Pick and choose wisely. If you take on too much, you’ll fall short. Focus on what’s significant to you; it will take you on a memorable journey. The choice is yours, so don’t let anyone tell you what to pursue. Trust your instincts and follow your heart. HH

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Looking the other way will put you in an awkward position. Weigh the pros and cons, don’t jeopardize a meaningful connection or put yourself in harm’s way, but make sure you can live with your decision. HHHH

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Look at contracts, investments and medical matters carefully. Test and research to ensure you know all obscure options that can spare you from facing the consequences. Scour the internet for documentaries that shed light on your situation, but be cautious of scams. HHH

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Emotional matters will escalate quickly. Be aware of your surroundings, be respectful of others, and avoid participating in discussions that challenge your beliefs or vulnerability. Look for the positive in every situation and steer clear of trouble. HHH

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Keep your thoughts to yourself and your eye on your objective. Limit your spending and avoid joint ventures. Look inward, question your prerogative and adjust your plans to suit your needs. A healthy attitude will encourage better decisions and discourage those trying to take advantage of you. HHH

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Keep your eyes wide open and refuse to let anyone get the better of you. Be on guard, question information and verify facts. Stick close to home and make your space into a convenient and functional setting that attracts positive attention and promotes success. HHHH

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Note what others are doing and do your best to keep up or surpass anyone competing with you. Someone will notice a change you make, so thoroughly review your plans before you put them into play. Pay attention to detail. HH

H: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. HH: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. HHH: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. HHHH: Aim high; start new projects. HHHHH: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.