by Astrology Expert, Sonya Starr Angel

Happy Birthday, Taurus! 2016 may have already delivered you an abundance of personal gifts. The first half of this year shows the planets aligned in a way to promote you achieving your personal goals and overcoming any challenges along the way. This year puts you in the spotlight as a leader with an ability to impress those you meet along life’s path. Your personal power is of a high magnitude, which positively impacts the sectors of love, family, creativity, hobbies, and health.

Expansion and growth are common themes for you in 2016. Expect to be learning, even in areas where you may feel you are already well-versed. It is never too late to learn more about the world. Jupiter is currently ruling your intimacy and love life, so you can expect greater depth and passion in your romantic affairs. You may be so busy having fun that you find it hard to settle and focus on the day-to-day tasks that still need your attention.

The hard work and perseverance of last year will finally be paying off this year. Wishes can come true, as you are finding out firsthand. It is time to enjoy the bountiful rewards that are coming your way!

Love matters are on your mind this year, as you see opportunities for romance in unexpected places. Things reach a peak from April 20th through May 24th. Singles and couples will feel a surge of energy, and a wiliness to take risks. Don’t be surprised if you are drawn to someone who isn’t a conservative match; for example, someone significantly younger or older than you, or from a very different background.

You may notice you are acting out as a “bad boy” or “bad girl” type at times. If you are determined to be faithful to a partner, be sure to reel yourself in and know your limits. Venus, your planetary ruler, is leaving quite an impression on houses related to intimacy and commitment later this year. Your focus is not just on physical intimacy, but on true love and matters of the heart.

On September 1st, a solar eclipse in Virgo occurs. An entirely new chapter may be added to your love life over the course of one evening. Later in the month, a lunar eclipse will entice you to nurture new relationship developments. If you are wanting to settle down or take a relationship a step further, this is the best time of the year to make your move. Be sure to reassure your love interest that you are serious and give them the security they are hoping for.

With all of the excitement going on in your love life this year, it will be important not to neglect your career path. You may drift into auto-pilot mode too often, if you are not careful. Overall, your charisma is high right now, allowing you to get away with more than you normally would.

Opportunities are waiting for you, if you seek them out. Mars will be stirring up your ambition to seek out hidden prospects to advance. You are more likely to splurge this year on financial risks, such as a lottery ticket or even a high-risk investment. Keep yourself in-check or speak with a financial advisor to ensure you don’t go overboard.

If you are looking for a new job or promotion, you will find the second half of 2016 to provide you with the breaks you need. You have had your eyes on a dream job and what it takes to get there for months, or even years, now. Your goals can be achieved this year. Never give up, and keep plugging away at the daily routine. Inch by inch, you will get to where you want to be!

From early April through June 12th, Mercury is in your sign. This will give a boost to any creative projects or business ventures that you are working on. Expect to be reaping rewards for seeds you planted long ago. Stability in business and finance is expected throughout the first half of 2016. A surge of energy hits you from July 30th through October 7th. You will have the edge on others around you, and your leadership skills will be highlighted.

You will be driven to experiment in business and in love during August. This will lead to some good news and pleasant surprises. Around this time, financial gains may lead you to make a major purchase. This is a good time to buy a new car or a new home.

Mid-November through early December shows Venus in Capricorn, which leads you towards a stable ending in 2016. You may find that your high energy and passion from most of 2016 is waning. You will be starting 2017 with an aura of peace and calmness. Expect clarity to envision new goals for yourself in early 2017. It will be time to set up the stage for your next big adventure!