Today’s Birthday (06/29/12).

The balancing act between work and play can tip toward work this year. Consider a long view for perspective. Where would you like to be in 10 years? Risks you take now have impact, and having a map (or at least an idea) helps. Loved ones offer advice and support. Take health and happiness into account.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) —

Today is a 7 — Keep your eyes and ears open. Wait to make a final decision after today. Handle basic tasks, chores and deadlines in privacy. Avoid travel and expense, too.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) —

Today is an 8 — Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to ask for help. It works and you come out of it stronger and feeling better. Put off shopping for a while.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) —

Today is a 9 — The days are getting busier. Just do one thing at a time, and don’t get distracted or work could pile up. Friends will understand if you turn down an invitation.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) —

Today is a 7 — Check and double-check the information. Emotions run deep. Love is comforting when other things don’t quite fall into place. Be open to new technologies.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) —

Today is a 6 — Be patient with an impatient friend. Discover something new about your partner and fall in love all over again. Miscommunications could arise with a group. Clarify.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) —

Today is a 7 — Your career is doing fine. Increase income through communication. Remembering your commitments helps you achieve your goals. Revise the schedule.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) —

Today is a 9 — Water the money tree so that you have enough for tomorrow. The changes you make are for the better. Meditate for emotional balance. Stay practical.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) —

Today is a 9 — Don’t get so focused on yourself that you forget some important detail. You see the future clearly, and dreams begin to come true. Stick to your principles.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) —

Today is a 6 — Optimism is a good thing now. Ideas are flowing and so is the money. Your actions ripple further than you can ever imagine. Be nice to yourself.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) —

Today is a 7 — Begin writing or recording. Get in touch with an old friend. Keep going for what you want. An innovation makes your work lighter. Romance is possible.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) —

Today is a 7 — You’re attracting attention. Step up to leadership. There could be conflict or change. Keep your promises or be in communication the minute you know you won’t be able to.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) —

Today is an 8 — Everything is done for love. Heal your old wounds. The more organized you are, the farther you’ll get, but don’t stifle creativity for order. A little chaos is fine.