Theresa Cheung - The Element Encyclopedia of Birthdays

Even though they are often highly valued and admired, those born on this day can become over-anxious about where their lives are heading or prone to the belief that they can never live up to their own or other people’s expectations. They need to understand that the satisfaction they crave comes not only from their achievements but also from within and from having fulfilling relationships. They prefer to show their love for others by doing things or helping out rather than articulating their feelings. Typically, around the age of 35, though often sooner, they reach a breakthrough point that emphasizes the importance of being more in touch with their emotions and the present moment, which serves them well for the rest of their lives. Once they are able to view mistakes not as failures but as opportunities to learn and grow, they have the potential for an extraordinary life. Their destiny is to communicate to others the importance of doing things the right way and seeing things through, leaving the world not just better organized but a happier place.

Tarot card, lucky numbers, days, colors:The Tower, 7, 8, Saturday, Monday, brown, blue

Born today:Kate Moss (model); Thaddaeus Ropac (gallerist); FKA Twigs (musician)

Potential:Responsible, insightful

Dark side:Anxious, demanding

“I lead and I inspire”

The life lesson:is knowing the difference between what can be changed and what cannot.

The way forward:is understanding that although some things can’t be changed, what can be changed is how you react – with a positive attitude and willingness to learn from every experience, you need never feel helpless again.

Luck maker:Success attracts success. Mix with upbeat and positive people and release toxic people from your life.

January 17-born love to take the lead, not necessarily because they are egotistical but because, having assessed the situation, it is clear to them that they really are the best person for the job. Despite being respectful of tradition, they can also hold progressive ideas about social reform. They like to help others. A defining characteristic is their tough-minded, self-controlled (sometimes irritable) approach and their belief that the only person upon whom they can really rely is themselves. They know the meaning of the word “struggle,” and are a model of inspirational self-made success.

Born disciplinarians, these people are drawn to careers where self-control matters, such as in sport or the military, the law, the police or the clergy. They are superb at managing and inspiring teams, so careers in the civil service, government, banking, teaching and business may appeal. They also have an interest in fashion, hospitality and catering, as well as teaching, writing and humanitarian work. People with this birthday have a tendency to repress their emotions, so they need to find activities such as competitive sport or other forms of vigorous exercise, which can act as an emotional release. For self-care, make a point in conversation to ask other people as many questions as you can. You don’t have to agree. Simply learn a new perspective and add it to your store of knowledge.

These direct and driven people take the lead in both their working life and relationships. They are loving and generous, but can become controlling of those closest to them and need to give their loved ones freedom as well as intimacy. Fortunately, in their early thirties, there is a shift toward allowing both themselves and others greater freedom, with another powerful shift happening in their early sixties. Once they have learned to get others on their side through cooperation rather than control, and to truly believe there is always a better way, their destiny is to lead by their powerful example and help others to work harmoniously toward the greater good.

Tarot card, lucky numbers, day, colors:The Star, 8, 9, Saturday, brown, green

Born today:Michelle Obama (US First Lady); Benjamin Franklin (US President); Muhammad Ali (boxer); Jim Carrey (comedian)

Potential:Purposeful, committed

Dark side:Intolerant, domineering

“I can show you the world”

The life lesson:is learning to concentrate.

The way forward:is not to stop daydreaming—this is the secret to your creativity—but when your mind wanders to gently bring your thoughts back to the present moment.

Luck maker:Finish what you start, even if that means doing things you find boring.

The creative powers of people born on January 18 can lead them to pure visionary heights. They have a quick wit and boundless energy that often delights others and are often surrounded by admirers. Optimistic, the only things that can bring down these endearing child-like souls are rules. They place a high value on independence and need to find an environment in which their need for freedom and play (fun) is respected because, if they don’t, this will lead them to bitterness. They can become bored quickly, losing their concentration and retreating into a world of fantasy or fits of temper if their needs aren’t being met, or becoming restless and impatient if they feel too confined.

Born creators, if a career interests them enough, they are likely to excel. Once they learn to combine their creativity with practical application, the fields of advertising, fashion, business, banking, property development and online influencing may appeal. Their idealism draws them to teaching, medicine, science, technology and charity work, and their sense of playful expression to art, film, literature, the media and entertainment. Because they live so much in their heads, they need to make sure they pay attention to their physical wellbeing and avoid mood-altering substances. For self-care, when you eat your evening meal, switch off your phone and any distractions. Focus your attention only on the food. Put your life and fork down between bites. Savor the moment.