Today’s Birthday (07/31/12).

Slow the tempo and listen. Health and time with friends are your central focus. You’ll witness some incredible music and have rich experiences this year. It’s not about the money. Share your passion.

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 an 8 — There’s a lesson to be learned with every step. Prepare well for the test, and hold yourself to high standards. Be very careful now by avoiding major risks. Take it easy.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) —

Today is a 6 — The hard part is getting over the resistance to make the first move. Don’t be afraid to take the first step. You can get whatever you need in spite of the circumstances.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) —

Today is a 7 — Not everything goes according to plan today, but look at the big picture. Avoid stressful situations and try to relax. Don’t make expensive promises.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) —

Today is a 6 — True love plays by the rules, but you can bend them a little. Get as much done as you can, but be careful not to break anything. Tailor your plan to fit the budget.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) —

Today is a 7 — Clear confusion before proceeding. Get as much work done as possible. Your partner provides much needed resources. Be practical. Don’t complain either.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) —

Today is a 7 — Creativity can get you further than sheer force. Stick to the basics. Trust your instincts, and wait for a better time. Don’t follow blindly, especially with money.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) —

Today is a 5 — Get work done before entertaining. Emotions interfere with logic. Stimulate feelings of harmony, but stand up to criticism. Add an artistic touch to your home.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) —

Today is a 6 — Find support from others, and develop an exercise plan. You provide support, too, and everybody wins. Do again what you did before that worked. Postpone long-distance travel for a while.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) —

Today is a 7 — Ask a favor from someone who owes you. Your finances are on the upbeat, but it’s not a good time to spend on impulse. Reaffirm a commitment and find satisfaction.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) —

Today is a 7 — You’ve got what it takes in the face of resistance, especially now. Tempers can be short. No need to spend what you don’t have. Replenish your reserves.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) —

Today is a 6 — New information challenges old preconceptions. Invest your energy in something that makes the job easier. Let others know what or whom you need.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) —

Today is a 6 — Work and play collide, and work takes precedence. Be cautious making commitments to friends. Be sure to have what you need. Don’t buy expensive gifts. Controversy arises.