Your horoscope for the week ahead: As Venus enters Leo, it's time to ask for what you want

Spending time practicing self-love will be a powerful way to protect yourself from any negative influences that show themselves near the top of this week. On Tuesday, emotional Venus in moody Cancer opposes power-hungry Pluto in pessimistic Capricorn, creating a perfect storm for combative interactions. People may be feeling paranoid during this time, so do your best to work against this energy by leading with kindness in all your conversations. 

You could feel a renewed desire for romance when love-and-beauty-ruling Venus enters warmhearted Leo on Thursday. While this transit can help us express our feelings more openly, it can also cause us to put on a bit of a performance for those around us. Focus on establishing honest communication with your loved ones and asking for what you want: to be pampered, admired and pursued.

Whether you're in a relationship or not, Thursday will also be a beautiful day for discussing your ideas about the universe — and your place within it — as ambitious Mars sextiles dreamy Neptune, compelling us to connect with people who share our spiritual outlook. Physical touch can act as an intuitive and healing way to strengthen bonds during this time.   

If you've been feeling ready to forge a new path, you could be invited to do so when the ego-ruling sun squares innovative Uranus, also on Thursday. Use this transit as an opportunity to work on yourself, integrating healthy new habits into your daily routine. Stay open to compromise as challenges come your way. If you don't bend, you'll break. 

Finally, a busy astrological day comes to a close with a call to celebrate our independence — and a challenge to meet new people. As the moon waxes full in forward-thinking Aquarius, we're reminded of how opening up our social circles can help us create positive new connections that allow us to truly grow.  

When fiery Mars trines transformative Pluto on Sunday, there will be nothing you can't accomplish. So summon your strength as these celestial bodies come together, and be aware that new relationships explored on this day full of passion have the potential to be world-changing — spend it with someone who shares your spark.  

Here is your horoscope for the week of Monday, August 8, 2022.

Aries

You've got a taste for the finer things, Aries. And this week, you'll be in the mood to shower yourself and your loved ones with gifts — just be careful not to go over budget as you enjoy this champagne lifestyle. It's also a beautiful week to let your walls come down, as people will be drawn in by your magnetic personality and eager to have meaningful conversations. Explore how looking inward could help you open up and create new friendships. Meanwhile, ignoring work calls and emails will be key to saving your sanity on the weekend. Next week, you'll be in the right headspace to deal with any colleagues who are feeling impatient or unforgiving. 

Taurus

Are you walking on eggshells, Taurus? If you're in a relationship, your partner may seem particularly prickly this week. Be sure to keep the lines of communication open, and avoid getting defensive as you hear them out. Single bulls can work through this hypersensitive energy with activities like journalling that allow us to explore our insecurities and work toward self-acceptance. If you have the impulse to splurge or upgrade every element of your daily routine, remember that there's no harm in a bit of indulgence — but keeping your spending in check is essential. So consider quality over quantity, and make sure you're ultimately investing in yourself. 

Gemini

Be wary of gossip this week, Gemini. Navigating conversations could feel a bit like traversing an obstacle course, so try to keep a low profile as you go about your business. Remember: the end goal is to avoid hurting the feelings of your friends, coworkers and loved ones. Meanwhile, connecting with your creative side at work could help you to find fresh inspiration. Listen to your intuition when considering what you want to prioritize next. If you happen to come into some cash during this time, think about how you could use it to invest in your dreams, and set it aside for your next project or adventure.

Cancer

Don't forget about your responsibilities this week, Cancer. If you neglect your loved ones to run off on an adventure or recharge with a long nap, they could feel upset. So listen closely to their concerns to understand where they're coming from. Meanwhile, teamwork can make the dream work if you offer a helping hand to your colleagues. You have the potential to strengthen your bonds with coworkers quickly, winning their hearts and minds. This weekend, try not to sweat the small stuff as money matters come to your attention. If you're feeling ready to upgrade something in your space, you can start small by gathering inspiration that will help you elevate your home. 

Leo

People rely on your leadership skills to keep everyone on the same page, Leo. Setting clear boundaries with your family and coworkers this week will help you to manage your own happiness while making sure that no one is left in the dark. Conflict in these relationships could actually fuel positive change — if you're willing to put in the effort. Meanwhile, when it comes to your work, you may feel the need to hunker down and put in extra hours, or take some quiet time to yourself. You'll be prepared to step back into the spotlight once you've revived your spirit in private. 

Virgo

Are you drawn in by luxury, Virgo? You may feel tempted to flaunt your wealth this week, but it's best to be conservative with your spending. Treat yourself to little pleasures that uplift your spirit instead of getting swept away and making purchases you might regret. A blip in your schedule could also inspire you to reorganize your daily routine or establish a new personal goal. Set reminders to help you stay on track until this way of doing things becomes second nature. On the relationship front, you'll be able to strengthen your connections with others by embracing vulnerability and finding the perfect intimate setting to open your heart. 

Libra

It's time to investigate your emotions, Libra. If you notice feelings of paranoia pop up at the start of this week, take a moment to look inward so you can try to understand where these insecurities may stem from. Doing so could even empower you to heal an old emotional wound. You may also find pleasure in helping out family during this time. Know that if you feel compelled to assist someone, it won't go unnoticed. Once you've set the stage for success, have a little fun playing the starring role in your life. Channel your inner superstar and let your confidence blossom. Wear extravagant outfits, charm your friends and put on a show. 

Scorpio

Be honest with yourself, Scorpio. When intense feelings pop up, it's essential that you reflect before you react. That way, you can focus on creating genuine connections, rather than performing for an audience. If you're in a relationship, you may notice your partner seems extra sensitive at the start of the week. Be ready to open up and think about how you can restore your bond. Toward the weekend, you could be looking at your love life through rose-coloured glasses. Meanwhile, an unexpected challenge at work could encourage you to explore different career opportunities. Just be sure to do your due diligence before you embark on a new professional path. 

Sagittarius

Protect your energy, Sagittarius. Inconveniences that mess with your schedule could sour your mood early this week, so do your best to keep yourself insulated from potential negative influences while commuting or running errands. Practicing mindfulness could help you shake any negative feelings that arise so that you can get back on track. Later, as you plow through your to-do list, you may start to think about treating yourself to a positive new experience. Learning that the trip or class costs more than you can afford could make you want to pull your hair out. Instead, try to focus on how you can start saving toward your goal.

Capricorn

Lead the way, Capricorn. You've got a talent for commanding the attention of your colleagues and superiors with your many charms. Your style and grace can only take you so far, however, so remember to stay on top of your progress at work. An unforeseen expense could also come to your attention this week, challenging you to think on your feet. Examining your finances and adjusting your budget accordingly could help you grow your wealth in innovative ways. Near the end of the week, your heart will grow full as you're encouraged to celebrate your unique nature. It's the perfect time to practice self-love and form new friendships.

Aquarius

Manage your expectations, Aquarius. It could be difficult to balance your personal and professional responsibilities early this week, but, ultimately, any problems that arise will help make you more aware of your limitations. Consider how you could take a more minimalist approach to your schedule in support of your mental health. And as the moon waxes full in your sign, enjoy a walk in nature or a trip to your favourite part of the city. Finally, if you've found yourself asking, "Does my space reflect my inner self?" you may feel inspired to elevate your decor this week. Embrace your creative side as you explore new possibilities. 

Pisces

Change can be a good thing, Pisces. This week, you're invited to switch up your schedule so that you can start embarking on a new path toward wellness. Incorporating just one new practice into your day could allow you to break out of your usual routine. Mid-week, your generous spirit may feel called to help a charity close to your heart or share financial wisdom with others. Just be sure to invest your time carefully. Meanwhile, your inner artist yearns to be seen, so get your hands dirty with something creative. Don't hesitate to share your work with friends, either — it could inspire them to create something great. 

Bryanna Collier is an astrology and fashion writer. Her work focuses on astrology, personal style, and how the two intersect. Follow her work at The Star Crossed.