marie claire 2011 Year Ahead

Uranus, the planet of the sudden and the unexpected settles into your own sign for an extended stay. Should this planetary guest be welcomed? With open arms. Extraordinary changes in lifestyle, self-awareness and values await. And you’ll love all the fuss.

Right from the start of 2011, you’re encouraged to recover last year’s lost ground. But it’s in March that the real fireworks start. Uranus moves into your own sign for the first time in nearly 80 years. What does this mean? Change. Lightning fast, thunderbolts of change - mostly in how you see and interact with this world. Outmoded disguises and values start to disintegrate. In time, a new you emerges. Morally, mentally and spiritually. You may also feel a sudden urge to travel. Venture as far as you dare.

2011 challenges you to release resentments. Chances are, last year’s experiences have already stepped up the need for frankness. If you’re not fully committed, or feeling confined, emotional battles could follow. Thankfully, a truce could be called as early as February, when warring factions extend the peace pipe. However, it’s probably not until mid March that you really feel your much-missed mojo truly returning. Only then can couples work through heavier issues, and singles re-seize their sexuality. Love comes in all forms, as the year may prove.

Career developments look strong - perhaps even prompting a standing ovation. So forget about the whys and wherefores and get on with what you do best. After March, cultivate new contacts and launch yourself into the work you’ve always wanted to do. While you’re at it, reconsider previously shelved plans and ambitions. And when everything finally starts falling into place, don’t just put this down to simple luck or good timing. It’s about time you took some credit here. It is you who’s becoming more assertive and more discerning. Perhaps a bit wiser, too.

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In June, generous Jupiter moves into your own sign - a transit which occurs only every 13 years. So think back 13 years ago. Perhaps then, too, may have been a time of fabulous fortune and new beginnings?

Here’s a year loaded with promise. For some time now, you’ve suffered disruption and emotional upheaval. A close friend, in particular, has been ridiculously touchy. Still, the experience hasn’t been all bad - you’re left with the gifts of wisdom, tenacity and tolerance. Jupiter announces major changes after June, with escalating confidence thrown in for good measure. Socially, you’re fabulous. And, as career goals unfold, you get to showcase your unique talents. Many manage to perform a slick juggling act with more than one job, maybe reaching out as far as overseas.

This year urges you to follow your heart. Some might go for more fleeting pleasures, but most favour the option of a rock-solid life mate. Even on a platonic note, you can expect to meet fascinating new friends. You can also take a calm look at how you handle partnerships. Many are pleased with the way they’ve put past lessons into practice, guaranteeing stability. Dust away emotional cobwebs, and talk problems through. Others will sense that change may be necessary. It’s your choice. After August, Venus exposes your sense of mischief. Enjoy, and be enjoyed.

Jupiter’s had a word with Saturn, and they’ve given you the go-ahead for anything you want to do. Not to be outdone, as early as February, the Sun expands your professional options. You’re in "can do" mode. If left wondering where to direct your efforts, opportunities await in administration, health, beauty and fashion, as well as the media. Travel is equally on the cards. Mars adds to the makings of a fabulous year by conveniently sneaking you into the right place at the right time. The rest is up to you.

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Being ruled by Mercury - you and Virgo feel the craziness of this planet’s apparent backward movement - also called Retrograde. During these Retrograde periods, it’s advisable to back up computers; double check times, dates, and read all small print carefully. Dates to watch: 1st to 24th April; 4th to 28th August; 25th Nov to 15th December.

2011 fires up your free spirit, with little in your immediate vicinity to quell this. Active Mars rules between June and August and when this warring planet lifts his sword to Saturn, you can expect an impassioned time. This could mean the odd power struggle at work or at home, where financial and legal matters might also make their presence felt. By September Venus and Mercury emerge holding hands, declaring a stint of romantic and social triumph. Soon after, the Sun lends some clarity to the greater professional dream.

Last year felt unsettled. Misunderstandings and the occasional mistake turned many a Gemini bedroom into a battlefield. For others, it’s simply become a no-go zone. What you want is less tension and more fun. Happily, January starts on a striking note, with Venus promising more romantic excitement than you’ve enjoyed for some time. There’s only one hitch: you may need to ride out a sexual lull towards May/June. On the brighter side, this is a time when intimacies result in fewer demands and stronger commitment.

Very little daunts you, but if you have one fear - it’s not being able to do whatever, whenever. Perhaps that’s why you haven’t been running at full speed in recent months. Shake off self-doubt and rediscover your strengths. You’re entering a new career phase - one that encourages cooperation. A word of warning: expect 2011 to be very busy. Fortunately, you have the qualities to meet any challenges. You’re custom-built to juggle several jobs at a time and cut through merciless schedules. True leadership qualities surface after March.

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Because you’re ruled by the Moon, it’s worth keeping in touch with the its different phases. The New Moon is a period of new beginnings. The Full Moon is a time of completion and celebration. For you, both times can be taught with tension and emotion. Stay aware.

Everyone’s entitled to happiness, and that includes you. You’ve kept your chin up, but these past few years have drained body and soul. So have you finally received the cosmic message? Live life on your own terms. In 2011, you’re able to do this, but there are some conditions. Mostly, you have to forget everyone else’s expectations. And unload some of those more burdensome memories - many aren’t worth their weight. Know, too, that love and money don’t make great bed mates, so you’d be advised to maintain an independent cash flow.

There’s a lot simmering under that gentle Cancer surface, but they do say it’s the quiet ones you have to watch. Right away, January heightens your sexuality, with Mars setting the mood for romance. Cast an eye outside your usual social circle. An old-fashioned courtship makes a refreshing change in February, though talk of commitment might come too soon. May enhances your free spirit. In August, clever communication becomes your best asset, but September’s a different story. With emotions running high, this looks like being a challenging month.

This summer’s not a great time for work, as your mind is more on pleasure. It’s not until April that the Sun empowers your career sector, leading to a surge in professional progress. You should also be more willing to delegate and share responsibilities. Whatever happens, there’ll be much to do. Despite Saturn trying to throw a spanner in the works, you have determined Mars on side. With Jupiter also offering generous support, there’s no telling what good fortune could come your way. And keep your passport handy.

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Your ruler, the Sun, sporadically hurls out fiery tsunamis called solar flares. When these magnetic storms hit Earth, it can be a tumultuous time for GPS systems, electronics and emotions. Leos are most affected. Dates to watch: 27th October 2010, 23rd January, 17th April, 11th July, 3rd October, 26th December.

Every now and then, we all come to question our lot, and sometimes we find ourselves giving life an overwhelming vote of no confidence. If recent events have left you feeling disheartened, remember that everything shifts and changes. Early 2011 grabs the baton and sets a fast and fun pace. You may consider travel - or perhaps a change of address. Later in the year, what you thought of as a casual fling could turn out to be a "soul mate" thing - which is good news, if you’re hoping to play for keeps.

In recent times, you’ve probably made more daring moves than you have in a while. This has been both exhilarating and disruptive. But until late February, you’re encouraged to sit back and take stock of all that’s happened. For the happily settled, early winter is full of changes. Expect life to be busy, though not necessarily in a bad way. July brings much-appreciated quieter moments. October may signal a time of deeper emotional and sexual exploration. But let such joys develop at their natural pace. Don’t push - entice instead.

Although sometimes it seems that fate gives with one hand and takes with the other, without the occasional challenge, life would stagnate. Thankfully, a long cycle of struggle is nearing an end. Now you’re able to envisage the overall picture, you can leave the drawing board and plan a positive future. You’re also encouraged to take more of a gamble, which could mean a new job or a complete change of occupation. The best news: a small bonus isn’t out of the question - nor is promotion.

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Being ruled by Mercury - you and Virgo feel the craziness of this planet’s apparent backward movement - also called Retrograde. During these Retrograde periods, it’s advisable to back up computers; double check times, dates, and read all small print carefully. Dates to watch: 1st to 24th April; 4th to 28th August; 25th Nov to 15th December.

Over the past year, you’ve been thrown from pillar to post by the cosmic madness assailing our planet. Mind, body and soul have all felt the force of radical change. Some have been forced to change career; others have witness their home life split wide apart. Perhaps you’re to blame, perhaps not. What does it matter? What’s becoming more apparent, however, is how interdependent we all really are. The days of uncompromising individualism are on the wane. 2011 encourages team effort. With the help of others, you become a quiet, but mighty, achiever.

For a sign that prefers composure to chaos, you’ve been unnerved by the intensity of your emotions lately. You’ve struggled with suspicion, uncertainty and anger - difficult times for someone who’s used to being in control. Of course, you’ve grown as a person, but that’s little consolation when you’re feeling lonely. The good news is that you will love again - this time with more passion and fewer inhibitions. More importantly, you won’t settle for anything less than the best. For singles, the cosmos notes your preference for adventure and will try not to disappoint.

2011 continues to be fast and furious. Initially, the idea of more pressure may not appeal, but the final gains will more than make up for it. Saturn demands that you spend your energies and money wisely in order to avoid burn-out - trouble is, Jupiter puts powers of resilience through an even more rigorous test. Still, no one copes with a challenge better than you. If tempted by wanderlust, dust off those old walking shoes. Anyone who doubts your return should know better. The world’s a circle, for pity’s sake. You’ll be back.

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Saturn stays put in your own sign until October 2012. Saturn is a disciplinarian - the taskmaster; and this planet now requires a more serious look at your one-to-one relationships. You demand true equality. In return, you must give the same.

This year is all about forgiving, and forgetting. It’s a period for you to move on. Send your personal demons back to their dungeons, and all that fermenting anger should start to ease. Free up your mind, body and soul for the happier times ahead. Your commitments won’t disappear, but they can be handled in a more joyful way. The answer lies in knowing that you are whole within yourself. You’re absolutely perfect the way you are, and you have an inherent right to happiness and abundance. Love, too.

Although you’re the free spirit of the zodiac, your wilder fantasies have more recently stayed under lock and key. This will change in February. Don’t count on March to slow down romantic rewards, especially when Venus ups the tempo. Soon after, a relationship issue going back five years finds its natural solution. Whether single or settled, this brings less stress, and more fun. Singles should follow through with their boldest fantasies. Couples have the luxury of overriding the stricter checkpoints of their erogenous zones. Something for everyone, it seems.

We all stub our toes sometimes - especially when we’re forced to tread unfamiliar paths. You may be steered towards a bit of rough terrain professionally, but at least you’re finally on the right track. But be careful not to overcommit. That’s a trap you often fall into - simply because you find it difficult to say "no" - and others take advantage of this. Be certain that you’re working at something you really want to do. Keep goals foremost in your mind, and this next year should be remembered as a time of tremendous reward.

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Expect a prolonged period of acute self questioning as thought processes undergo a steady but deep psychological change. A change of attitude, too, towards siblings and friends. Some find that they start to experience telepathic or psychic communications.

Occasionally, we all need a helping hand. Sure, you’d rather rely on just you - that’s your style. But this year promises to introduce a very special someone who can bring fresh wisdom and wonder into your life. This could be via romance, or work. Whatever and whoever, by May many Scorpios are swept up by another’s charisma. Jupiter pushes professional interests along. Business and money matters suggest a pleasant change in lifestyle. Personal goals also seem clearer. And it’s not by accident that they soon come within reach.

You enjoy love. Lust, too. Just as well, as 2011 seems particularly keen to play the sexual broker. It’s a year when your mystery and natural charisma are at their most appealing. In June, the past may get back in touch. An intimate theme continues through the winter. But if you’re given a chance to begin a promising new chapter, guard your secrets. Not everyone will be as forgiving as you. September promises passion, with the odd clash of egos thrown into the mix. Rapture or wreckage, you’re in for a raunchy time.

We each come into this world with our own unique talents and our own special tasks to perform. And this year, it’s definitely your turn to shine. 2011 highlights career and travel, accompanied by progress and prestige. October, however, has "detour" written all over it, so don’t try to fight it. Even when immersed in the toughest work schedule, we occasionally come to a halt and realise something has been forgotten. Very often it will be the things we’ve taken for granted, such as friends or family.

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Your life ruler, Jupiter, throws a curve ball at its traditional one-year per sign visitation. What does this mean? Two major shifts of focus mid year. Until May, you get to enjoy all the romance, pleasure and creativity that you can handle. After June, it’s back down to some serious work.

The planets are feeling fidgety, and keen to kick you along. Through February, travel’s a strong possibility, while early 2011 is fuelled by sexual fervour. For established duos, this is a magical stretch, where past troubles are put to bed. Some may consider renewing their vows. Singles also grab their fair share of romantic fun. When it comes to finances, though, Pluto is behaving like a total creep. Spendthrift Sagittarians can expect a depleted cash flow, with extravagant must-have items becoming the first victims of budgetary culling.

Last year’s emotional and professional pressures doused many a flame of passion, but early 2011 brings a dramatic change in mood. Established relationships will be injected with spontaneity, while singles find love in unexpected places. Love at first sight? A strong possibility. As is planning a romantic getaway. Singles meet a powerful individual who opens your mind and sexuality to previously untapped desires. Couples can expect more tenderness and understanding towards each other’s moods and needs. Whether we’re talking emotions, possessions or opinions, sharing becomes less complicated.

Sagittarians step into a year packed with ambition, particularly so after June. Thanks go to Jupiter, who ups both your professional responsibilities and your popularity rating. Don’t worry about any extra duties - you have all the right qualities to meet most challenges. After all, you’re used to switching from low to high gear, and then back again. Just don’t forget to stop for the occasional breather. Which is why March should be mentioned, a month created for the sole purpose of mixing business with pleasure. Enjoy.

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Pluto has set up home in your sector of self - a time of great opportunity and learning. In upcoming years, you realise just how incredibly strong you are. Courage and power take deep root in your character. For every ending, you’ll be rewarded with amazing new beginnings. Wisdom, too.

What an amazing few years it’s been - a period of dramatic change. You, more than anyone, have been vulnerable to the cosmic madness that’s plagued our planet. Major changes affecting work and home have either merged these two interests or split them wide apart. Either way, it’s been disruptive. But here’s a year worthy of celebration. Love and professional matters appear back on course, with a delighted Jupiter cheering on both passion and financial flamboyance. The biggest surprise this year will be just how well you cope with the unexpected.

In matters of the heart, 2011 is gentle on your soul and generous with introductions. You need this. Last year was make-or-break time. Yes, you reclaimed much personal power, but it was gruelling nonetheless. Over the next twelve months, the planets expose a much lighter sense of fun and mischief. Being sexy is all about liking yourself, about knowing who you are and liking yourself. Straddle this psychological fence with confidence, and in 2011 you’ll be spoilt for choice. With any extra cash, indulge in an image update.

There were some harsh moments in 2010, but you stayed calm and did your best. No one could possibly have asked for more. This year, persuasive cosmic forces will help you to make up for lost ground. Just one hint: work on your presentation. It’s all in the way you tell it and sell it. September offers the unexpected, so make sure you’re on the ball. Travel is likely, although most trips look like being short dashes. But no matter how brief, there’s much to be said for exploring unmapped territory.

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Uranus, your life ruler, dominates finances over the next few years. Expect major ups and downs in income patterns - something you don’t easily adapt to. Still, there are lessons to be learned, and sometimes it pays to speculate. At the end of this period, you may also be earning in a completely different way.

For you, 2011 starts and ends on a dramatic note. While many planets are cast in a supportive role, it’s Jupiter that wins the lead. This planet’s sensational performance begins in late January, when the spotlight shines on communications and travel. In May, the scene shifts to a fun and fulfilling family life. But it’s not until October that Mars unashamedly steals the show, reeling in reciprocated love, a sudden windfall or professional gain. Mixing business with pleasure becomes a hot possibility. Seems that there’s plenty to cheer about.

Early 2011 is a time for typing up pesky loose emotional ends, and breaking bad habits. For example, saying "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. By October, confidence again runs high - as does your licentious libido. New relationships ignite, with cooling embers just as easily rekindled.

Hats off for giving it your best shot. You’ve made a valiant effort to fall in line, and you almost had others fooled. But the free spirit within is about to spit vengeance. And if certain opportunists thought they’d gained the upper hand, they’re in for a nasty shock. Jupiter expands communication opportunities, and even Saturn waves you through its usually demanding checklist. Consider making lasting investments this year, such as property. But should health issues emerge through the winter months, do your metabolism a favour - settle on a sensible eating plan.

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Neptune, your life ruler, was last in Pisces between 1847 and 1861. This time bought the end of slavery, new forms of art and high philosophical and spiritual ideas. For you - intuition, compassion, creativity, magic now become your keywords. As does Truth.

For too long, Pisceans have weathered tough times and you’ve worn all the nonsense that the heavens can muster. So, at what stage do you say "enough is enough"? Well, as long as you’re still breathing - you have precious little choice but to go where life leads you. Don’t worry. You’ve clocked up plenty of propitious karmic pay-back. Finally, here’s a year which allows you to cash in on many well deserved rewards. This year, you somehow manage to show up in the right place at the right time. And it’s nothing to do with co-incidence.

2011 brings mixed success in love. Relationships have their tempestuous moments, matching powerful plays of passion with periods of cool detachment. Not exactly a smooth run, but friction can become your friend if you examine what the resistance is all about. Two eclipses, in January and July, add to the mayhem. Although your usual impulse is to run from conflict, sometimes it’s best to stand your ground. Should this lead to new circumstances, so be it. The cosmos always has a contingency plan in motion.

Powerful planetary forces put forward strong arguments for change. My guess is that you become more assertive, as well as more outgoing. The latter half of 2011 is also an ideal time for new studies, professional growth, and for embarking on promising new business ventures. Whatever happens, keep faith with the spirit that drives you - despite the pressure. Instinct, too, will help you negate any obstacles as you develop a reliable feel for the right direction. If extra work hours are required, don’t grumble - the gains promise to be exceptional.

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