The sun, moon, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Pluto are all in the highly responsible, traditional and exceptionally goal-oriented realm of Capricorn. As the heavenly bodies celebrate the Sea Goat, the concept of work and play are reversed. The most compelling and irresistible thing to do is to be of service to others and make a pretty penny in the process. And if the job is difficult, all the better, as Capricorn loves a challenge.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). An opportunity to mentor another presents itself in the first days of the year. Though you worry that past misgivings could hinder this endeavor, you will find it is, conversely, an invaluable asset. You are a survivor. You know the roads to avoid, and this is your chance to share the map. You’ll be brilliant.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Your people skills are in rare form. You bring a smoothness of form and movement to all of your conversations — people easily fall into your graceful dance of connection. It’s a secret power you’ll use often to expand your network and deepen your relationships in the early part of this shining new year.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). An association seems delightful, but do not be blinded by the polite appearance of cooperation. This may actually be an effort to ride your coattails or steal your spotlight. Do not fret, though. You have a bag of nobler tricks. The weekend provides the opportunity to throw on a metaphoric cape and take it to the stage!

CANCER (June 22-July 22). There’s a long list of things you want to do in the new year, and when you let your intellect bounce from one subject to the other, a lovely rhythm emerges. However, by Thursday you’ll see the value in streamlining. Trim the resolutions down to a single aim. One important goal will serve to focus you powerfully.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your self-esteem cannot be compromised by anyone other than you. Rather than pleading for attention while licking your wounds, you take a different approach. You ask your higher mind for a new and more empowering way to think about your situation. Focusing anew will yield great dividends in the coming weeks.

THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAYS: You’re one of the limit pushers this year, and you will bravely forge new territory. As a result, you go down in your family history, or perhaps even world history, as the first to do something. You start by recognizing where the current boundaries lie and poking around to see where there might be some give. By February you’ve crossed the lines and will have your own cheering section, too. Finances improve to support you through an expansion that happens in March.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). It won’t quite pull together the way it did in your head. People’s limitations come into play, and the only thing you can do about that is accept them. However, you’re precisely the person to make things happen anyhow — and you’ll shine, too. When the ship doesn’t come in, you get wet and start kicking.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You go into the new year on a strong note as you take a stance against an injustice that has been perpetrated. The reactionary stink-eye you receive from the opposition is only a signal that you’re doing the right thing. The self-respect you garner from this event attracts some much overdue respect from others.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). There’s so much going on now that some of your plans may get lost in the hubbub. But don’t let your dreams stray too far from your heart. Monday and Tuesday offer some spare time to honor your gifts and see where they lead. Use the thousand watts of clarity you attain on Wednesday to set even loftier goals.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It’s an understatement to say that a creative project inspires. Some would call your state a “mild degree of mania.” And perhaps you are going into the new year with an idealized view of what you will accomplish. But with your energy, you could actually do it all. Virgo, Taurus and Capricorn keep you grounded.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Another’s touch will incarnate you, leaving you feeling present, visible and completely alive. However brief and platonic the event, you will spend time pondering the powerful synthesis between your physical and emotional well-being. An exercise regimen will result; a flood of self-worth will follow.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You may feel like it’s not your place to bring up too many questions, but that’s where you’re wrong. Existentialists could argue that nothing exists until you inquire about it. Many vital details fall between the cracks if you don’t press for answers. Besides, you have a right to go into the year informed. Ask!

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). There are things you want to happen that will only occur if you are able to influence the people involved. Your social savvy is strong now, so you should be able to pull this off. Of course, you have to know what someone is interested in if you are going to persuade them. Do your research and then go for the win.

Holiday Mathis is the author of “Rock Your Stars.” If you would like to write to her, please go to www.creators.com and click on “Write the Author” on the Holiday Mathis page, or you may send her a postcard in the mail. To find out more about Holiday Mathis and read her past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at  www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2008 CREATORS SYNDICATE, INC.