Overview

You charge into the New Year under the influence of energy planet Mars in your career zone. January 16 to February 24 is ideal for starting new professional projects or taking a step up in your career. You’ll crave autonomy at work and will seek roles that challenge and inspire you. February 21, when Mars and Neptune align in your career sector, brings professional inspiration, helping you take action regarding career plans.

Your ruler Venus is fleet-footed this year, whipping through one-and-a-quarter turns of the heavens. You’ll follow suit, moving at a faster pace than usual in 2011. With no ruler retrograde to slow you down, you have full cosmic blessing to move forward at a steady, constant pace.

In particular focus are your professional goals and aspirations (March 3 to 28 and December 21 to January 14, 2012), your dreams about travel and adventure (February 5 to March 3 and November 27 to December 21) and your experiences around shared resources and self reflection (January 18 to February 4 and November 3 to 26).

On June 5 you enter one of your luckiest streaks yet, as expansive Jupiter returns to your sign after a 12-year hiatus. Jupiter helps doors open and brings an abundance of opportunities. Boldly choose to go where you’ve not gone before and you’ll channel this inspiring, adventurous energy wisely. The second half of 2011 is particularly full of growth for Taurus born between April 21 and 30; the first half of 2012 is when all other Taureans get stuck into making the most of their lucky streak.

Staying on top of wellness remains a priority as Saturn continues through your health and daily routines sector. The balancing act between the work that needs to be done and the needs of your physical self seesaws throughout the year, especially around March 28 to 31 and April 18. You’ll need to be firm about boundaries with others and work then to ensure you get the rest, exercise and healthy food you need.

Your ruler Venus makes a number of significant connections with planetary heavyweights in 2011. Note these dates for your diary as exceptional energy flashpoints:

• February 10 and December 2, Venus/Pluto. Your desire to be in control overrides almost everything else. You want honesty and are prepared to reveal more of yourself than usual. Pluto blesses you with power, so use it wisely.
• March 27, Venus/Neptune. Your ability to trust in the goodness of those around you reaches a peak. Compassion fills your spirit and you realise there is joy in giving selflessly to others. Romantic and creative inspiration peaks.
• April 23, Venus/Uranus. The call of freedom spurs you to make unconventional but entirely authentic choices. Freedom is more important than anything else now, so avoid restrictive or limiting situations. Not conforming makes you happier than compromising to fit in.
• May 11, Venus/Jupiter. Lady Luck is on your side, especially if you’re happy to work behind the scenes. You’re restless for change, so break with routine where you can. Spiritual energy and intuition are high, so don’t overdo it physically or with work.
• September 13, Venus/Saturn. Saturn helps you grow up. Maturity and practicality take precedence as you contemplate and make lasting commitments. You channel your wisest self and others see you as a voice of wisdom.