Horoscopes: April 8, 2013

ARIES (March 21-April 19) The feeling that you have no control can be so overwhelming that it leads you to counterintuitive behaviors. Discuss it with a close friend who can help you see the areas you can control.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) This is a lucky day for pitching ideas, submitting proposals and the like. You have a way of single-handedly lifting the Monday morning fog.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21) Someone has to start the good vibes rolling, and that someone is probably you. Make a mental list of the things you appreciate in your environment right now.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Be on guard against your tendency toward self-criticism. You need to be confident now in order to face the world.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) When you hear about something that is not for you, you know immediately that it's not a good match.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) When the donkey is no longer hungry, he will not follow that carrot on the stick, no matter how juicy it may be. You'll be in a position to think of new incentives.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) You sometimes feel like you're a playing piece in a game you don't completely understand. Give it time.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21) The thing about putting yourself out there is that it doesn't always work out. Still, there's something that keeps you on this track of making the more daring and interesting choices.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You will do your best work when you're left alone. Unfortunately, it will be a bit tricky to make that happen given today's nonstop business, but you'll manage.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Someone will give you the benefit of the doubt, and you'll appreciate the kindness of this gesture. It's indicative not only of the good nature of the person , but also of how far we've come as human beings.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) You don't have an unlimited amount of time to learn every discipline or accomplish every task. Sometimes the coolest thing to do is to back off.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) If you're criticized, don't jump up to defend yourself. It will be far better to blow it off in the moment and let the dust settle where it may.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (April 8) You have a soft place in your heart for those who do not relate to the rest of the group, and you reach out to offer a sense of belonging. That contribution colors your year. You will in turn be included in the secret world of others and invited into remarkable experiences. Financial and creative highs come in May, June and October. Cancer and Leo people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 40, 12, 13, 22 and 15.