The large tectonic shifts taking place this year rumble back into focus this month, bringing money decisions to the forefront of your mind. As much as you may be yearning to hit go on a big purchase or investment, it could feel like things are two steps forward and three steps back. Manage the frustration by throwing yourself into something creative or making time to play.

Tip: Prioritise the things that truly bring you pleasure—gallery dates, karaoke, bouldering—whatever lights your fire

How are your interiors looking? Random as it sounds, finding joy in familiar surrounds will be the salve your soul needs this month. There’s a lot of hectic planetary weather coming our way—especially the first week of August—testing even the most patient Taureans. Follow the lead of your ruling planet and go wild with some truly indulgent decorating fantasies.

Tip: Let off steam and escape the grind with a long, lingering visit to Hay 

A little mental health maintenance could be in order this month as the intensity of news headlines leave you feeling tapped out. With Mars and Uranus shaking up your subconscious, fight the uncertainty with stillness and make mindfulness your secret weapon. If meditation isn’t your jam, escape into a good book or a Selling Sunset binge.

Tip: Turn off the news and commit to a diet of trash TV

This month, if a situation looks like drama and smells like drama, you can guarantee it is…with a capital D. As kind and forgiving as you can be, you might find you’re coming to the end of your tether with friends who just can’t help but stir the pot. If you’re not in the mood, graciously bow out and focus on you. There’s some sweet moments around 18 August to make some extra money or work on a pay rise. 

Tip: Keep yourself busy (and out of other people’s mess) by focusing on your finances

Being selective with your energy could save you a whole lot of heartache this month. With Saturn acting as a cosmic handbrake, knowing when to charge ahead, and when to wait for a more opportune moment will be crucial. Despite your loftiest ambitions, progress will be slow, so save yourself the stress. Quit pushing and go get your hair, nails, face done instead—whatever makes you feel good. 

Tip: Indulge in big beauty treats in honour of your birthday season

How’s your commando crawl? Assuming a somewhat stealth position could serve you well this month as the mood intensifies on a macro level. Staying pragmatic under pressure is one of your super powers. When the plane is delayed, the road is closed or the trip is postponed altogether, remember the setback is temporary and may afford you a little extra time to perfect your plans.

Tip: Accept the things you can’t control, and focus on the things you can, especially when it comes to travel

Those Big Money Questions that have been swirling since November last year come back into focus this month as Leo season shakes things up. The tension – especially the first week of August – could feel overwhelming, but preparing for temporary speed bumps and surrounding yourself with friends who just “get” you will keep you ticking along. Plan something fun around the 18th when a break in the weather promises good vibes only.

Tip: Make time for uncomplicated friends who feel like sunshine

While your nearest and dearest may be restless this month, the sun is giving you a new lease on life at work. But before you race off and ask for a pay rise, take a minute. No one ever got a raise by just putting their hand out and saying, “Gimme!”. Be strategic. Show your manager just how amazing you are… then ask. This is energy best spent focusing on standing out for all the right reasons before you knock on your boss’s door.

Tip: Look for ways to shine a light on your achievements at work

When was the last time you got away? A little bit of escapism could be just what you need to get through August. Sure there could be a little turbulence early on in the month (figuratively, not literally), but prioritising the things that bring you joy—like travel—will distract you from uncertainty. Whether it’s booking a big trip or enrolling in that yoga teacher training you’ve been thinking about for months, do one magnificent thing that you know will bring sunshine to your life.

Tip: Make an epic holiday (even if it’s just booking it in) the light on your horizon

The long game is your preferred mode of engagement and this month you’ll get a chance to test just how patient you can be. Despite having fire in your belly, circumstances beyond your control will keep things moving slowly. Bide your time. Use the delays to your advantage. See setbacks as opportunities to finesse your plan and you might just surprise yourself with an even better vision by the end of August.

Tip: Distract yourself from silly setbacks by focusing on longer-term plans

Finding joy and solace in your deepest relationship—romantic or otherwise—will be a guiding light this month. While major developments unfold on the home front, particularly the first week of August, connecting with your other half and making space to laugh, play and be silly will make any hiccups totally bearable. 

Tip: Don’t sweat the small stuff and prioritise fun with your favourite person

What makes you happy? Like, really, truly happy? This month reflecting on the practices, people, places or even products (Beaute Pacifique Defy Damage Skin Repair Serum, we’re looking at you), and priortising them is all you need to do. It doesn’t have to make sense, it only has to feel good to you. When things feel tense, return to that instant source of joy—no matter how small or silly.

Tip: Schedule at least five minute every day to do something that makes you feel pure joy

Hot tip: try reading these horoscopes for your rising sign as well as your sun sign. You can check the Co-Star app or have your charts read by an astrologist to see what your rising sign is.

Emma Vidgen is an astrologer and meditation teacher. Follow her or book a reading @emma_vee and @thewayward.co.