Everyone knows relationships take work, but how much should they really take? Strong attractions and the promise of rewards can make the work seem lighter. In some cases, the work is in resisting a magnetic pull instead of creating a bond. In any case, it's a week of enlightening contrasts as Mercury and Venus end retrogrades, bringing greater awareness to how much we're putting into relationships, what we hope to get out of them and how we're being met in the process.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Like hot oil to a popcorn kernel, this week brings loads of genuine attention and exciting instances of acknowledgement. The recognition will have you bursting open, insides on the outside, surfacing your personality, creativity and confidence. Being truly seen and heard "pops" you into a fuller, more expressive version of yourself.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Chasing the jackpot could blind you to the gold dust already underfoot — the kind that actually adds up. Assume there's something valuable that you haven't spotted yet in a moment, person or process. Stop and ask yourself what it might be. Follow that line of reason to crack open this week's treasure.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You've been through intense cycles before, so you know that when a person is drowning, the last thing they need is someone handing them a pamphlet on swimming techniques. You'll be the real help that makes change happen so someone can stop struggling, catch their breath and move on to more productive paths.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Longing for what's just out of reach? The ache of absence will seem to prove the impossibility of having it, but of course, this is the lie that wanting tells you. The answer is not to dwell in wanting but to let it guide you to a desire worthy of pursuing — you'll know what it is because it will pursue you back.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You'll enjoy fun scenarios this week, but the best parts of the week aren't those. It's the uncomfortable moments or rougher parts that refine you. Some edges smooth out; others sharpen. Not everything worn away is a loss. What remains is truer, honed by time, shaped by friction. You are not diminished but distilled.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). In some aspect, you are self-taught, which makes you an excellent teacher to others who want to pick up the skill. By sharing what you know, you'll gain deeper understanding, fresh perspectives and the satisfaction of seeing your knowledge take root and grow in the life of another. The impact you make becomes part of your legacy.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You read energy so well and have an instinct for managing dynamics. You know when to engage, when to deflect and how to set the right rhythm so you remain accessible without feeling overwhelmed. A well-placed pause, a subtle shift or a light touch of humor will keep interactions in balance. Your reputation as a charming diplomat lives on!

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Your intuitive sense is a gift you don't have to explain — and probably shouldn't try to. Those who understand already get it, and those who don't likely never will. The illogical things you're moved to do will often unfold with uncanny precision, as if guided by an unseen hand. Trust the pull is leading you somewhere important this week.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Is status irrelevant in the perfect equilibrium of love? You'd like to think so, but the premise will be challenged this week when unspoken hierarchies or social dynamics come into play. You'll make yourself proud. The kindest choices just feel right to you, which is why you opt for connection over competition and bring good fortune upon yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). New circumstances put you in a position to decide things you've never had to figure out before. No one is pressuring you to respond in any particular way, but your heart tells you it's the right thing to do, and therefore, it feels like the only choice. Once you get that intuitive hit, think no more — take courage and follow through.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). There's something that would help you, if only it were invented. You'll spend time in your imagination, examining the different aspects of your need, dreaming about the ideal fixes and inventing our own solutions. Build, tinker and experiment — this creation will help more than just you.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You need attention. You may not crave it as much as some of the people around you, but that doesn't mean you should always take the service role or lead the applause from the audience. Step into the light when it's your turn. Recognition isn't just for the loudest voices — it's for those who contribute in ways that matter, and that's you.

THIS WEEK'S BIRTHDAYS: You'll thrive and fly in this year of themes that are something substantial to take on. You'll have renewed belief in the power of your own endurance, the magic of transformation and the fortifications of hope. What changes and strengthens will be both in your physicality and your circumstances. More highlights: You'll be naturally drawn to the people who need you and who have much to give back, and give they will. You'll be showered in gifts, love and opportunity. You'll step up to a leadership position with confidence.

Holiday Mathis' debut novel, "How To Fail Epically in Hollywood," is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.

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