What was commonplace in an era gone by is now considered offensive, and that has been the way for every trip around the sun since the dawn of society. To fully embrace this moment in history is to make constant updates. Mercury in the early degrees of Taurus refreshes the page of commerce and encourages the service of today’s market.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Instead of rushing to conclusions, you’ll take time to gather information and consider multiple perspectives. Instead of seeking validation, you’ll focus on self-assurance and inner confidence.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You are the free-spirit who ignites the untamed essence of others. You expand boundaries by just being you. You’ll effortlessly draw out aspects of people that might typically be restrained by convention.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). There’s no benefit to dwelling on past mistakes, but you’ll definitely get some insight from a quick visit with that data. A course correction may be in order before you can focus on present actions and future possibilities.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Some feel smarter because they notice what’s wrong in the situation. It’s a good start, though complaining is only the entry level. The real intelligence is honed by those who brainstorm solutions and take proactive steps.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). It is natural to compete with people who are on your team. It happens to a stronger degree when the outside competition is not prevalent enough. When a common enemy shows up to the court, the team bands together.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). It doesn’t take much to shake up the routine today. New shoes will do it. Being 15 minutes early will do it, as will being 15 minutes late. These small tweaks will alter your adventure significantly.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). In theory, you’re always up for a challenge, though the reality is that were you to take them all on, you would have no energy left for some of the best things in life. And besides, shouldn’t some things be sweet and easy?

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). When you like someone, you seek ways to keep the connection going, for instance a shared goal, ritual or cause. Even though such things can be purposefully arranged to good effect, it’s nice when they come up organically like they will today.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). There will be little room for anonymity today; you’re always under the spotlight, but your unique presence allows you to influence situations positively and leave a mark that resonates long after you’ve moved on.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). In your fantasy travel, the scenery is natural, gorgeous and accommodating to your physical being. On real vacations, it’s often too hot, too cold, too crowded and almost always too expensive. You’ll consider carefully what trip would be worth the trouble?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Delving into intellectual pursuits can be enriching, but it’s not for every day or every cycle. Some realms of knowledge lead to existential questioning, disillusionment or even a sense of nihilism. For today, stick to the creature comforts.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). There is no universally applicable or guaranteed method of providing lasting comfort or reassurance to everyone. Acknowledge individual differences, preferences and needs when exploring ways to cope with uncertainty.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (May 16). Down the winding path you go, seeking your heart’s desire and finding pearls of intellect, enlightenment and skill along the way. The prize will challenge you more than anticipated, and attaining it will compound your joy. More highlights: You’ll enjoy new social circles. Your team does a job better than ever and all prosper. Gemini and Cancer adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 7, 17, 5, 30 and 10.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: In the new sci-fi thriller “Subservience,” Megan Fox plays a domestic “SIM” who gains awareness and turns deadly. Since her recent breakup with Machine Gun Kelly, Fox has been dishing advice for summertime goals including “learn a skill or develop a hobby … and do not waste your energy on boys.” the Venus-ruled Taurus was born under a Leo moon with Mars and Neptune in Capricorn to lend grit, business sense and an ambitious, competitive nature.

Holiday Mathis’ debut novel, “How To Fail Epically in Hollywood,” is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.