You don’t have to prove yourself to anyone today, though you may be concerned about a critic at work. You are ready to demonstrate your competence anyhow as combative Mars picks a fight with domineering Pluto. Passions are blown out of proportion when you meet powerful resistance. Even if it seems like someone is purposefully blocking your way, it’s smarter to work with the energy instead of struggling to overpower it. Don’t succumb to fear; you can reach your destination by following the high road.

It’s challenging to manage your negativity today, but it should get easier as you gain awareness about what’s really happening. A minor run-in with someone whose opinions are different from yours can stir unconscious memories. If your feelings aren’t acknowledged, a minute molehill can turn into a volatile volcano. There’s no need to let the pressure build to a breaking point. Avoid losing your temper by gently sharing what’s on your mind without blaming anyone else.

You won’t be happy today if your friends simply assume that you will just go along with everything they want to do. You may feel that they are being pushy and you don’t appreciate it. Even if you don’t want to make a big deal about what’s happening, it may reach a point where you have no choice but to respond. Do your best to move through this uncomfortable situation by talking about your own fears, instead of attacking anyone else’s behavior.

After attempting to disappear into the shadows, you realize that something has to happen now and it’s up to you. Although you don’t necessarily want to take charge, no one else may be capable of stepping up to the plate. Being the leader isn’t the issue, but your passive-aggressive behavior could make matters worse. Remember, if you have a problem with someone’s performance, saying it out loud can prevent your anger from hardening into resentment.

You like playing the part of the good guy and are happy to focus your intentions on the best possible outcome. You may truly believe that this is the most intelligent strategy, but someone might think you are avoiding the facts. Ironically, you both could be right. However, if either of you attempts to prove your superiority, everyone will end up as a loser. Concentrate on creating common ground instead of tearing each other apart.

A playful conversation may turn into a rather serious argument today. What upsets you most is someone acting like a know-it-all, bending reality for an apparently selfish purpose. You don’t have much tolerance for anyone who spouts facts that are blatantly untrue. Unfortunately, a fight to the finish could do more harm than good. It may be wiser to wait until everyone’s emotions have settled down before continuing the discussion.

Everywhere you go today, people seem to be confrontational and you don’t like it. You might be tempted to place blame on everyone else, knowing full well that your intentions are good, no matter what. Unfortunately, circumstances may be more complicated than you realize, because your suppressed anger could be coming back at you in a projected form. Accept total responsibility for your own feelings, even the negative ones. This simple act of courage may be sufficient to begin calming the disruptive energy.

If you haven’t been following your exercise regimen, today’s a good day to reinitiate it as your planetary rulers, muscleman Mars and formidable Pluto, cross paths to provoke action. Although you could feel deeply rooted emotions bubbling upward into your awareness, the edge of intensity can be softened through intense physical exertion. Channeling your energy positively by working out at the gym or dancing all night long can help to moderate your extreme point of view.

This may be a back-to-work day, but you still want to have your share of fun. Unfortunately, previous obligations will force you to reconsider your plans. You may not be very happy when you realize that a social event must go on without your attendance. Although you may be tempted, blaming others is not a sensible strategy to get what you want. This situation is a test of your maturity, so accept the current circumstances and rise to the challenge.

If you lose your temper today it will become harder to get what you want. Unfortunately, you have been waiting for satisfaction and you have run out of patience now. Nevertheless, an explosive emotional outbreak will only turn your allies against you when you need them the most. Being honest and saying what you’re thinking may be the right thing to do, yet compassionate behavior conveys your message more kindly.

You may be too busy to stop and process your feelings today. Unfortunately, this can lead you down a difficult path as unexpressed emotions simmer beneath your awareness, turning a healthy reaction sour. Negative thoughts may be quietly lurking in the shadows, so take whatever time is needed to talk about your current frustrations. You might find yourself in the middle of a serious conflict if you don’t adopt a proactive approach first.

You are often quite comfortable when feeling your way through a difficult situation without a rational anchor. However, today you might stubbornly choose to resist all forms of emotional engagement. Intuitively, you realize that there are struggles ahead and that it will be easier to avoid them than to confront the underlying issues. Unfortunately, there’s no quick and easy way to sidestep the truth. Being honest now can be the key to receiving the support you want.