Horoscopes: Monday, Dec. 18, 2023

ARIES (March 21-April 19). The instinct to protect yourself is a survival mechanism that generally serves you well. However, you may do your best today in an unguarded moment, as that’s when someone will connect with you on a deeper level.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). While it’s not necessary for you to be under pressure to do your best work, the pinch of a deadline will concentrate you and boost you with the energy surge you need to make things extra special.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You enjoy yourself more when you feel free. If you don’t feel you can enter, stay or leave a situation whenever you wish, it will change the way you operate inside of it.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You care about what you desire, and you desire what you care about. You’ll be willing to put time into elevating your special interest into something more beautiful, functional and accessible than it was.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’ll do exactly what you would like someone to do for you, were the situation reversed. You’ll get to note the reaction and compare it to what you imagined it would be. This is prime social education.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). There are many reasons to give second chances. Some have to do with spiritual generosity, and some are about logistics. You’ve invested time already, and it’s simply wise to aim for a return on that investment.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You were once overwhelmed by choices that seemed endless and complicated. Now you see that there are only a few options that make sense for you, and this will make it easier to move forward.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Being a little nervous gives you an edge and lifts the energy of your performance. Being very nervous puts stoppers on the energy and inhibits your ability to engage the world. What can you do to create a sense of comfort and keep the stakes reasonable?

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It’s uncomfortable to be complimented with words that go far beyond your usual internal dialogue. It’s the compliments that are a few steps over your usual internal talk and/or attitude that will really resonate with you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). New situations give you the chance to experiment with your role. Who do you want to be in the situation and who are you being already? You can play this any way you want, and whatever you choose, you’ll be believable.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Aligning to the belief systems of those around you is a survival mechanism. Sometimes the right answer is hard to see because everyone around is agreeing to the wrong answer. But don’t worry, things are shifting.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). External factors, such as reminders of the person or situation you’re trying to move on from, can trigger strong emotional responses. Just remember, emotions are not static. They will change and evolve over time. The future brings a new set of feelings.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (Dec. 18). Your artistic talents will add beauty to the world. Your secret is in finding the art in even the most mundane activities and interactions, thus elevating the experience of all. More highlights: You will know the thrill of deciphering puzzles. With a desire for a larger context, and a receptive heart, you will unlock astonishing secrets hiding in plain view. Virgo and Gemini adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 6, 10, 13, 4 and 21.