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Behind every "effortless" performance lies countless hours of practice, dedication and fine-tuning. Mercury backing into Leo reminds us that work is elevated by those who understand that the true skill is not just in the doing but in mastering the craft to the point of fulfilling other agendas while executing it -- for instance, the aim of spreading joy, entertainment and good vibes.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Run your day through your mental projector before you launch into it. See yourself with your hands on the steering wheel. This is no time to compromise the vision. Collaboration is ill-advised. Your project needs your unique touch.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You know what you want, but you don't know the cost or if it's even possible or reasonable to have it. Are others asking for the same thing? What would it take to make it happen? Test the waters and trust your instincts.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Consider your loved ones and role models. Do you believe their worth is diminished by flaws or mistakes? Of course not, and neither is yours. Allow yourself the same grace you afford others.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). No choice is entirely personal. Today, your life events will reflect broader societal themes, and you'll be increasingly aware of how your actions tie into the larger picture. You have influence, and you'll use it.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You'll learn by doing, which is a thrill. You'll experience excitement in the wrong moves and right ones alike. This is the quickest way to become proficient, but it also takes the most energy. You'll rest well when it's over.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You hit the right tone at the right times, and it's the secret to creating harmony in your world. It works in relationships, at work, and especially in your relationship with yourself and the environments you most enjoy.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). People may be initially attracted by a surface quality in you, or so they think, but there's actually something deeper and mysterious drawing them in. Trust in this magnetization. You don't have to chase anyone or oversell your assets.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Some people will advise you even when they know less than you do about the situation. You'll save time and effort by doing your own research and using your own judgment.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Often, the right move feels a little scary. Take notice and keep moving. Let feelings inform your experience, but don't let them be the only factor in your decision-making.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Whether or not you take things very seriously, you'll still get a lot done. Just don't take any of the events too personally, which can only slow you down. With the mindset of a team player, you'll give your peak performance.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Before you have to speak your mind, you might not realize fully what it has to say. In the process of articulating yourself, there's much to discover. There will be magic in your refinements.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The order you do things will affect the outcome even more than usual today, mainly because coming at a task with the right energy makes all the difference in the world. The actions that get you in the right headspace must come first.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Aug. 14). You'll get your wish! It's not because someone grants it but because you figure out the right action to repeat and do so with dedication until what you want is in hand. This is a better way because it means you can have more whenever you need it. More highlights: Wonderful invitations, seeing the world with friends and reaching new levels with your special talent. Scorpio and Aquarius adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 10, 3, 5, 32 and 17.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: The recent Apple TV release of "STEVE! (Martin) A Documentary in 2 Pieces" tells the surprising personal history of the beloved, multitalented entertainer. Steve Martin's instincts as a comedian, actor, playwright, novelist, songwriter, banjo master, art collector, tweet master and family man are quintessentially Leo -- big entertainment meets bigger heart, all the way.

Holiday Mathis' debut novel, "How To Fail Epically in Hollywood," is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.

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