HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Wednesday, January 9, 2019: This year you express an unusual zest for living and can even turn a difficult situation into an exciting opportunity. If you are single, you might have to walk away from someone who feels the need to overcompensate in some way. Take your time before committing. If you are attached, you and your sweetie learn to relate on an even deeper level. Boredom is unlikely to be an issue for the two of you. PISCES seeks you out as a friend.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): If you can lie low, you might get a kick out of watching a group of friends as they decide to reverse course. The reactions they give might be unbelievable. Be smart and observe. Try to minimise any comments, and watch an issue work itself out. Tonight: Not to be found.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You have taken on an inordinate amount of responsibilities. Sometime around midday you can relax and not be so concerned with each detail or issue that pops up. You might get feedback that allows you to feel good about a sequence of sudden changes. Tonight: Hang with the crowd.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Make long-distance calls in the morning, before your schedule becomes too hectic. You will want to mull over a recent insight. You could be stunned by how a friend sees his or her universe. In the afternoon, decide to take the lead. Tonight: Invite friends to join you for a break.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Listen to what is being shared by a boss. You might witness the reversal of what was just suggested. Try to unearth the fundamental issue that this person must deal with. Happiness surrounds those who are more open and authentic. Tonight: Love the one you’re with.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Your popularity soars, and you might have more choices than you’d like to have. Maintain a sense of humour when trying to make plans with someone at a distance or when listening to a friend’s change of mind. Feelings come out between you and a loved one. Tonight: Out late.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sept 22): Tackle what you must immediately in the morning. Distractions seem to appear from out of nowhere in the evening. If you have been efficient and organised, you can be a little indulgent with your schedule. You might meet someone of interest. Tonight: Accept an invitation to go out.

LIBRA (Sept 23-Oct 22): Take off to spend time with a loved one. This person will appreciate you and your efforts. You will be in a more chipper mood when you get to work. You could be surprised by a partner’s reaction in the afternoon. Immerse yourself in your work. Tonight: Don’t push.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): Getting going could be quite challenging. Instead of fighting city hall, why not enjoy a leisurely morning? The afternoon demands your creativity. Are you aware that you have an admirer? If you look around, you might realise who this person is. Tonight: Paint the town red.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Make calls in the morning. You will receive a positive response. Now might be the time to bring up a difficult topic. On the other hand, you could decide to enjoy an easy conversation. In the afternoon, you’ll recognise that a problem must be handled alone. Tonight: Hang close to home.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): Use care with your finances, as you or someone else is likely to make a mistake. Your caution could prevent a problem from happening. You might be in meetings or brainstorming with one person most of the afternoon. Tonight: Hang out at a favourite spot with loved ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): No matter what happens, you seem to be all smiles in the morning. Deal with difficult people at that time, as you are more likely to gain their favour then. Financial matters come forward in the afternoon. You cannot avoid dealing with them. Tonight: Pay bills first.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): Whatever ails you in the morning will dissolve later in the day. Give yourself permission to be sluggish in the morning or to sleep in. You will want all of your energy in the afternoon. Someone clearly wants to spend more time with you. Tonight: Choose a favourite stress-buster.

(c) 2019 by King Features Syndicate Inc.