October Horoscopes

STAR OF THE MONTH

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

You want, and deserve, only the best - which is precisely what your next year brings. One off opportunities open new doors at work. The planets also boost intellectual vigour, and even if it does manifest in the form of an occasional challenge - it's no drama. You enjoy giving the old neurones a bit of a run. At home, a sense of belonging becomes important. Your birthday season offers some strong romantic contenders, but in case you're unimpressed, a little later in the year, Saturn brings a karmic relationship in the form of romance or friendship.

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SCORPIO

23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

There's much to be said for expediency - so what if it puts the odd nose out of joint? You're tired of endless debates and exploring options - choose a direction and follow it. Once initial obstacles are overcome, there should be surprisingly little resistance to your plans. The next step may be a change in your work environment. You could also find fruition in something you started around three years ago.

SAGITTARIUS

22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER

Sagittarians are smitten with the unusual, and they delight in being unique. Therein lies the rub - for if you value your distinctive character, you should respect everyone else's. The question of responsibility versus freedom may crop up. But mistake commitment for chains, and you could find yourself permanently footloose and fancy-free. If that's what you want, fine. Otherwise, try a more conciliatory approach.

CAPRICORN

22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

The Sun and Mercury put pressure on career matters. So if you're occasionally overwhelmed by the enormity of your workload, don't be. Once you've stepped into the breach, fate has little choice but to move forward with you. One warning: until the 20th, curb your spending - a difficult ask, perhaps. Still, not everything in October gives cause for concern. Love and friendship look delightful, particularly after the 21st.

AQUARIUS

20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

October puts forward a strong argument for change. My guess is that you become more assertive, as well as more ambitious. The latter half of the month is also an ideal time for new studies, professional growth or for embarking on promising new business ventures. Whatever happens, keep faith in the spirit that drives you. If extra work hours are required, don't grumble - the gains will be well worth it.

PISCES

19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

It's my guess you need a rest. Take advantage of October, which offers a spot of relaxation: maybe some contemplation. Find somewhere warm - kick through the sand; curl up under the doona. Some of you, though, may find it hard to slam on the brakes. Try, or you'll end up exhausted when work spurs into overdrive after the 21st. In the meanwhile, open up to the possibility of love - it's closer than you think.

ARIES

21 MARCH – 20 APRIL

Mars looks set to spark some fiery debates in October. Little can be left to chance, with cash flow being the most contentious issue. You'll have to think on your feet as each new financial twist unfolds. Love isn't about to lay its cards on the table, either. Look out for suspicious behaviour. Someone's got a secret, which could be held against you. Get to the bottom of it, any way you can.

TAURUS

21 APRIL – 20 MAY

You have a few issues in limbo, which doesn't make for a good night's sleep - especially if money's involved. There has to be a way of finalising matters, even if it means getting professional advice. But when you're this strapped for cash, options can look limited. You don't like turning to family for help, but in pooling resources with others, late October promises some financial respite. A happier way to end the month.

GEMINI

21 MAY – 21 JUNE

This month, Geminis develop a knack for transforming the seemingly insignificant into potential success. Every event, every job and every setback become an opportunity for growth. Not only on a material level but emotionally and spiritually as well. And in choosing to love life, no matter what crosses your path - you create an infectious aura of joy and prosperity that can't help but captivate and inspire others.

CANCER

22 JUNE – 22 JULY

October is a time for tying up pesky loose ends and breaking bad habits. For example, often you say "yes" - when you really mean "no". There's no getting around it: changes need to be made, with some difficult situations coming to a close altogether. But it's not a case of being punished for past lapses of judgment - the universe doesn't work that way. It's just that for every ending, there's usually a new beginning.

LEO

23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

It's a whirlwind month ahead, Leo. Stay focused; confirm dates and appointments ahead of time. Your mind is firing as you cope with droves of details. Downside: communications with others could become gridlocked. Keep your mind objective and positive. This is no time for acting halfheartedly. Inspiration's out; perspiration

is in. Without patience, you'll be banging your head against a wall.

VIRGO

23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

Early October may not be your best time. If putting on an act gets you by, fine - but if your dilemma is desperate, tell it like it is. Besides, not everyone is playing fair. Call it manipulation or coercion - a certain someone knows which strings to pull. The upside? It's your birthday soon, so when Venus offers extra time for play later in the month, slip into party mode. At the same time, the Sun generously boosts finances.