Happy birthday for Aug. 21: Participate, get educated and consider the possibilities. Slow down and refuse to feel pressured by what others choose to do. Your numbers are 4, 12, 24, 28, 31, 42, 47.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Make undercover changes to avoid interference. Keeping your life simple and free from those who tend to overreact or try to take control will help you get what you want without penalties or loss. HHH

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Listen to your intuition and verify your feelings. Be polite, but ask direct questions. You cannot afford to let anyone take advantage of you or mislead you into thinking everything is OK when it’s not. HHH

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Change may be in the stars, but you’ll have more than one choice, and not all will be equal. Ask for expert advice when in doubt, but only move if it’s worthwhile. With increasing opportunities heading your way, you have more time than you realize. HHHH

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Someone authoritative will take note if you let your imagination take over. The more creative you are, the easier it will be to access people, information and prospects to help you achieve your dreams, hopes and wishes. HHHHH

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t buy into something you know little about. Rather than following the crowd or taking on unnecessary burdens, rely on intelligence and common sense. Look at the big picture and avoid risky ventures or events. HHH

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Focus on your mental, physical and emotional well-being. Take action to release energy by engaging in activities, meditation or projects that bring you peace and help you be grateful for what you have instead of laboring over what you don’t have. HHH

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Enjoy your surroundings, whether walking in your neighborhood or taking a trip to an unfamiliar place. Expose yourself to something new that prompts you to learn or to change your life path. HHH

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You may not relish change, but you must indulge. The effects of trying something new will boost your curiosity and encourage you to take your skills, experience and desires to a new level. Unleash your talents. HHHHH

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take the time to listen before you reveal your thoughts and feelings. Knowing what others want or need will help you phrase your words to accommodate the situation and encourage the best results. Arguing is a waste of time; incentives will help you get your way. HH

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A lifestyle change geared toward health and fitness will be challenging but uplifting if you follow through. Nothing worth doing is easy, but the hard work you put in and the benefits you receive will lead to unusual and exciting connections, pastimes and rewards. HHHH

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): An opportunity to make your space functional will result in an enthusiastic approach to chores and responsibilities. Combine something you love to do with someone you enjoy being around, and it will give you a better idea of what you want to achieve. HHH

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Stick to the facts, or someone will question your validity. Gaining support will require sincerity, proof and trust. Being disciplined and having a good work ethic will set an example and ensure you attract helpers who want to be a part of your plan. HHH

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.