SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

The United States is the planet's major player in terms of political, economic, and military clout. China is rising fast as a competitor in those three arenas, but lags far behind in a fourth: "soft power," or cultural influence. The rest of the world finds America's style, entertainment, art, and ideas far more attractive than China's. As you enter a phase that will be favorable for enhancing your own leverage and authority, Scorpio, I suggest you put the emphasis on wielding "soft power." You'll accomplish more by charming people with your intelligence than by trying to push them or manipulate them.