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CAREER: You begin the year in a strong position, but be sure to shore up your disadvantages against hungry competitors. Your best strategy is avoiding hard sells and office politics through the end of February. That's easier said than done near the end of January. Rabble-rousers and whistle-blowers insert themselves into your daily routine. Sensitive information floods inconvenient nooks and crannies. You breathe easier after February 22nd. Coworkers and customers that can't comprehend your actions clearly don't get why just doing your job makes you so happy.

By late March, you're caught in a loop when colleagues lose sight of the mission. Only you notice the slow exodus of clients to other companies. Group solidarity returns around April 21st. Repurpose overlooked ideas and materials. Management parties and receptions get out of hand in the beginning of May. Everyone feels entitled, although the real credit goes to the visionaries. Marketing types make a progressively stronger case over the next two months. Reluctant administrators throw up their hands around June 6th.

Your fortunes change dramatically for the better on June 22nd. You benefit from the personality cult inspired by your skills or job description. Expect a Summer of career advancement and pet projects. By the end of August you're willing to let new members join your inner circle, each bringing talents that enhance your team. Labor Day comes early this year, which is fine with you. Sensing that your grip on these repeated triumphs won't last forever, you're eager to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Make your pitch on September 20th. The window that opens is small but profitable.

By the end of September, progress slows. Human resources become expensive liabilities. Good help is harder to find. Around October 24th and 25th, restructuring and career changes seem inevitable. You're strong enough to take it, although these actions may seem harsh to others. Some professional relationships are permanently altered this month. After November 23rd, circumstances force you to slow down. You find out that sharing can be a richer activity when it's not restricted to material goods.