Today’s Birthday (08/15/12).

Today is auspicious for setting long-term intentions. This year, the gold comes through friends, groups and organizations. Nurture partnerships and networks, and have fun together. Summer ease and romance shifts to projects around home and family after autumn.

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 — Hold your temper, or you could get hurt. Use your impulses for creativity, and make something you’d be proud of. Even romance is possible with patience.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) —

Today is a 6 — Postpone travel and spending for later. You can develop skills you need, so practice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’ve got the concentration.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) —

Today is a 5 — Don’t let a loved one talk you into spending too much. Stick to the basics on the home front. Delegate to a perfectionist. Keep digging and find the clue.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) —

Today is a 7 — Today and tomorrow are good for making money (but not for gambling). Check the assignment again to clarify instructions before proceeding farther. Expect construction nearby.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) —

Today is a 5 — Another job requires attention. You’re a genius at planning now. It’s partly due to your willingness to keep your word. State your needs. Stand firm. Keep it simple.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) —

Today is a 6 — Work interferes with pleasure as you begin a new business push. Don’t launch before you’re ready. Consider all options. Clarify your direction with friends. An old flame revives.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) —

Today is a 6 — Group projects go especially well for a couple of days. More study may be required. Read the instructions to avoid mistakes. Be sure you get a receipt.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) —

Today is a 6 — Advance in your career for the next three days or so. Close to home is best. Keep a low profile, with a tight grasp on the money. Costs are higher than expected.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) —

Today is a 5 — Lay groundwork for the future. Increase flexibility and peace of mind with daily exercise. Plan an adventure to somewhere deliciously exotic, even the local spa. Care for thyself.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) —

Today is a 6 — Your wild side wants to go off track, while your inner disciplinarian wants you to stay focused. Listen to the one that serves you best.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) —

Today is a 5 — You’re growing more interested in another. Use your magic touch to create harmony from a confrontation. Consider all possibilities. Love helps you resolve the conflict.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) —

Today is a 7 — If the maze of figuring yourself out has left you lost, focus on what you can do for others instead. Make a promise that you’ll love keeping. It’ll keep you busy for the next few days.