Horoscopes: Monday, October 16, 2017

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You may find the best thing you can do is back off and give plenty of room for another to solve a problem independent of you. It will probably be harder than stepping in and fixing things, though.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Hope is essential in any good plan. If you find you can't get behind the deal, figure out what you have to do to add hope.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You're determined to finish the job, but it's more than that. This ultra-focused state of mind borders on obsession. Remember to take breaks.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You're just trying to solve a problem. It's not your fault that fixing it causes other problems. It's because the issue is at a deeper level than you thought.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Though you can be social, a favorite friend, consummate host and excellent all-around entertainer, you can also be the world's most content hermit. In fact, you'll be that today for a time.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). When you know what's appropriate and can fit into a situation easily by being that version of yourself, life feels comfortable. When that stops being the case, you'll have a choice to make.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You got to this place by answering a calling, following an inkling or obeying an intuition. But this is a crossroads in the journey in which research, logic and thoughtful argument will serve you very well. Take it to the committee.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You worry about loved ones just as, in the past, people have worried for you. You didn't like being on the receiving end of it, and neither will they. Knowing when and what to keep to yourself will be key.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You're in charge of your own story. Cast yourself as the hero, and find a way to play out the action that highlights your many capabilities and your determination to overcome adversity.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The more responsibility you assume the more power you have. However, at some point, you have to ask how much power you really want. More is not always better.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Talk to someone you don't know. The freshness of finding a communication rhythm with a stranger will bring its own kind of thrill. And it's not every day you get to make a first impression.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You may never jibe with some people as smoothly as you do your best friends. Yet don't let this stop you from trying to connect. There are still many pleasant interactions to be had if you give them a chance.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Oct. 16). The friends you make over the next three months will lead you to lifestyle upgrades. You'll learn a new side of your work in November. At the start of 2018, there's a chance to help family do something important for the next generation. A hobby turns into something more, bonding hearts in the process. Leo and Pisces adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 1, 19, 2, 22 and 44.