2011 Career Horoscopes

Paths to success

by Jeff Jawer

There are two major and very different paths to professional success this year. One is effective for the first half of 2011, and the other kicks in mid-year.

The key player here is Jupiter, the largest true planet and the age-old astrological symbol of good fortune. It starts off 2011 in super-sensitive Pisces, where imagination is stirred and dreams are inspired, but then Jupiter shifts into pioneering Aries on January 22. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac and rewards those who take initiative. Getting a little bit ahead of the pack can feel risky, but it's recommended to cash in on the promise of Jupiter's presence. Playing it safe and sticking to what you know may seem like the reasonable thing to do, but those who stand still professionally may be in greater danger than those who are creating new opportunities. If this involves seeking another line of work or bringing a totally fresh approach to a current job, there is a chance of failure.

However, the lesson of Jupiter in springy Aries is to continue trying new things, and eventually one of them will lead to a breakthrough. The Solar Eclipse in responsible Capricorn on January 4 is a reminder that simply doing one's best in a static situation may not be enough. This is a sign of professionalism and climbing to the top of the ladder. Yet this eclipse suggests that even successful people may take a fall if they aren't able to adapt to changing conditions.

Although Jupiter in independent Aries places high value on individual initiative, responsible Saturn in the partnership sign Libra shows that cooperation and building alliances is still critical to career advancement. On June 4, Jupiter enters the fixed Earth sign Taurus, making it a time to slow down and put fresh ideas on a more solid foundation. Taurus is a sign where steadiness and practicality are highly valued. It's not a time for radical moves or complicated schemes. Simple, realistic, energy and money-saving concepts will be most appreciated. Finding a steady pace at work or in seeking new employment may be challenging when pressure is building, but creates an environment in which rewards are more easily attracted.