Today's Birthday (01/18/17). Opportunities flourish for career growth this year. Discipline with planning lets you soar to new heights. Change financial strategies with a partner this February, before thriving creativity and communications spark. A different income direction next September leads to shared profits. Collaboration wins.

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 -- Work together to manage a new assignment (on top of everything else). Suppress the desire to argue or procrastinate. Transform obstacles into opportunities. Partnership wins.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- The pace quickens. Handle responsibilities before going out to play. A work controversy requires your attention. Get the facts. Stick with the real thing.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Relax and let your thoughts turn to romance. Avoid awkward moments by scheduling carefully. You're developing a new perspective. Share what you love.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 6 -- Find what you need close to home. Family has your attention. Finish a big job together, to upgrade your domestic scene. Many hands make light work.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Listen to what's going on, and summarize the plot for others. Observe the running game. You're especially keen-witted and clever. Put your thoughts into words.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- That money could show up any time now. Present your argument tactfully. Prioritize obligations and adjust the budget to suit. Don't spend what you don't have.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- You're on a roll. Personal matters come together, if you can avoid procrastination. Disruptions and distractions pull at your attention. Double-check your work for potential errors.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 6 -- You're especially sensitive. Clean up old messes, and clear new space for creating what's next. Hide out and consider what you want to generate. Discover options.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Your friends are your inspiration. Have fun on committees, at parties and at social gatherings. Sidestep a controversy with diplomatic humor. Smile with grace and tact.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 7 -- A professional challenge has your attention. Adapt to a change in plans. Clear communications channels are vital. Investigate options and opportunities. Compete for higher status.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is an 8 -- New opportunities open up. Take charge, and go for the big prize. Inspire others without getting pushy. When sufficiently motivated, your team can move mountains.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Take care of financial obligations without losing your cool. Do as much as you can without discussion. Think fast under pressure. Talk about money later.