Weekly horoscope by Russell Grant: 8 December horoscopes for each of the 12 zodiac signs

ARIES (March 21st – April 20th)

There’s a distinct festive atmosphere around you now. Your social world sparkles as invitations to parties and other festive celebrations come pouring in. Text messages are flying from one friend to another as you make arrangements for the month ahead. You might notice strong bonds building between you and your neighbours or colleagues. Facing challenges together help bring you closer together. Joining forces with a talented artist will help you produce some amazing work.

TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st)

Clinging stubbornly to outdated routines can cause stagnation and frustration. It is time to let go and go with the flow. Stop trying to force square pegs into round holes then you will realise how much fun it can be to experiment with new methods and techniques. Ignoring problems will cause tension. Discuss issues that are causing strain in a close relationship as soon as they arise. Your honesty will encourage others to be truthful about their feelings too.

GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st)

Your family and closest friends are your first priority now and you will be putting their needs and wishes before your own. Your most special quality these days, is compassion. You’re finding it easier to connect with people on an emotional level. Getting involved in a festive community event will be worth your while. Invite some youngsters along to help put up decorations. Don’t be surprised if you raise a lot of money for a great cause.

CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd)

Putting your imagination to good use will help you zoom ahead with a new assignment. You feel inspired and ambitious and if you do a good job, you could be offered a raise, promotion or both. Wherever you go, friends and even people you hardly know will enjoy your company. Your hopes and plans are starting to change and this has something to do with the new people you are meeting and new friendships you are making.

LEO (July 24th – August 23rd)

When it comes to making festive plans with the family, you should leave your options open. Someone could come along and make you a more exciting offer and you will wish you hadn’t made previous commitments. Unexpected circumstances force you to take a long hard look at your life path. There are some things you must decide for yourself and you will need some time alone to consider your future. You have more options than you realise.

VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd)

A friend’s behaviour leaves you feeling as if they have let you down. You trusted this person to carry out their promises and now you know they aren’t as reliable as you had thought. It is important that you continue to look on the bright side. There may be a need to dip into your savings to pay a few unexpected debts relating to the home. Unfortunately, a friend who owes you money is refusing to pay up.

LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd)

Falling behind on your work could have unpleasant consequences so do your best to stay on top of things. This may mean getting up an hour earlier each morning or putting in extra time over the weekend. You’re searching in the wrong places if you are looking outside yourself for happiness. True joy comes from enjoying the blessings that currently grace your life and many of these are within your home and family.

SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd)

Helping out a relative with their home or garden keeps you grounded. This is a good time to catch up on laundry, go grocery shopping and do household chores. People appreciate your sensible advice. They know you offer guidance from a practical standpoint. Are you looking for love? Steer clear of aloof characters who might take a long time to get to know. You will be far better off with someone who can express their emotions.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st)

If you have a touchy topic to discuss, approach the subject over coffee in a relaxed setting. You can understand how it feels to be in someone else’s shoes and you may have to use this ability to the full to bring harmony and accord into a working relationship or close friendship. A turnaround in your finances along with some exciting developments at home will give you a new sense of achievement. Give yourself a pat on the back.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th)

Any problems you have this week will be linked with people who have too much to do and too little time for you. Friends are unable to fulfil promises they made you, and although they have some good excuses, you still feel disappointed. Eventually you will just get on with most things yourself. Some aspects of your life are changing but as one door closes, another will open. Benefits are coming your way in the future so be on the lookout for new opportunities.

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th)

Involvement in projects with a festive flavour will keep your spirits merry and bright. Your positive outlook makes you a popular figure and people know they can achieve anything when you are around. You have a natural ability to bring out the best in every member of your team. Special news received towards the end of the week will have something to do with your partner, a child or a family member. Arranging a family celebration will take up a lot of your time and energy.

PISCES (February 20th – March 20th)

You are thinking about trying to track down a friend you lost touch with many years ago. Once you start your detective work, this could lead you to planning a big reunion. Keep it casual and it will be fun. Although progress might seem a little slow, you can expect a change in career direction fairly soon. Keep a low profile and do your groundwork. For now, you don’t want to draw any attention to yourself.