Many of us will be assessing the value of an item, deal, relationship or focus — especially one that takes more than it gives. A conjunction of Mercury and Venus urges us to lean into subjectivity and personalize the transaction. The most pertinent question to pose is not "what's it worth?" but "what's it worth to me?"

ARIES (March 21-April 19). True: There are things you can't unsee. Truer: Nothing you see can be unseen. Each vision that goes into your beautiful brain is stored on some level, conscious or unconscious. So put yourself where the sights will fortify and inspire you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Pleasure with purpose is the theme. It's as though the universe knows you are meant for beauty, deserving of loyalty and the perfect candidate for enjoying the comforts bestowed upon you — so savor the day.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). In matters of fun, comedy and entertainment, playing it safe can be boring. Take some chances. Up the ante. It's ironic. Once you start creating more excitement, you'll see that it's not even a risky thing to do. It's something they welcome.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You experience your feelings as information, not instructions, and you'll find them to be especially articulate today, telling you what is and is not working for you lately. Listen closely, then respond with care instead of reflex.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You're not chasing the spotlight, but it finds and follows you anyway. Lead with playfulness and you'll get the attention that makes the game fun. Fortune favors bold joy over polished performance. Let laughter be your authority.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Some plans seem to come together by magic, but of course "magic" is often a trick a long time in the making and one which takes an even longer time to practice and perfect. You're doing the work and your "ta-da" moment is coming.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). There's part of you working overtime to get it right. It's admirable. Useful! Until it starts crowding the moment with second-guessing. Bypass the trouble by staying with what you're doing instead of judging it. That's when productivity gets fun.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Relationships may be hard work, but they are also delicate work best done with precision instruments. A light touch is most effective. As you already know, it's best to work from the heart instead of building intellectual arguments and strategies.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Home is a starting place. It's where the story begins. As Dorothy learned from her shoes, even when you're far from your origins, they are with you in every single step. Three clicks and you're back.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The emphasis is on reciprocal and uplifting relationships where energy flows both ways. They'll leave you feeling happier. When your world includes variety and mutuality, your thoughts even out, your emotions regulate and life feels lighter.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your fears and doubts are seductive. But so are your dreams. Keep coming back to your fantasies and plans. The more you add to them, change, tweak and refine them, the more they will excite and empower you.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You've gathered the information you needed, and you're making right moves. Repeat this enough and it will become second nature. Remember, mistakes don't mean you owe yourself admonishment. This is all a learning process.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Feb. 28). Step into your Year of Charm and Serendipity when your magnetism draws opportunity and everything you need to thrive falls right into your hands. Conversations, meetings and fleeting moments have potential — and you have follow-through. More highlights: Family makes you proud. You'll hit financial markers set long ago. A special person has you saying "yes" to adventure and fun. Scorpio and Taurus adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 24, 2, 15, 33 and 7.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: As inimitable as Bernadette Peters may be, last year's Tony winner Cole Escola paid tribute to the Broadway legend by donning a copy of one of her iconic gowns. This year the Pisces power vocalist is working on a musical comedy with Jesse Eisenberg, appearing on concert stages around the world, and helping NYC shelter animals find a permanent home through Broadway Barks. Pisces are known for their kind hearts and an empathy to span barriers of species.

For more Holiday magic, visit HolidayMathis.com. To find out more about Holiday Mathis and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Farzad Mohsenvand at Unsplash