Astro Love: Ready to Move On?

Ending a relationship, even if you've only dated a few times, can be tough. How do you get the job done without hurting the other person's feelings? What if you're being too low-key and the message isn't registering? Here is a sign-by-sign guide to the graceful way to say goodbye.

Aries
Aries take on any challenge and don't quit until they win. The only problem: Some won't take "no" for an answer. What can you do? If you have to cut an Aries loose, don't mince words. Look him or her in the eye and be direct. Start kind ("I think we've gone as far as we can go") and, if you get an argument back, get tougher. Last stop: "I'm just not into you."

Taurus
These gentle souls are loving and loyal. They tend to stick to relationships (even bad ones) like gum on the bottom of your shoe. That means you have to be prepared to work at letting them go. Taureans don't respond well to direct communication but they do take actions to heart. Opt for a workout rather than a date, decline having dinner together - show that it's over, then say it - gently, by explaining that you're moving on.

Gemini
Beware of sending mixed messages to these quick-witted minglers. It's all too easy to say it's not working but demonstrate (however accidentally) that you might stick around. Clarity is essential, as is real separation. Say it's not working for you, then disappear for 30 days. Think of it as Love Rehab.

Cancer
The big Cancer claw doesn't like to let go of anyone, and the crab is particularly good at sidling away from issues. You almost have to sneak up on Cancers if you want to end things. Start with a few questions, like, "You know how you love to study physics and I hate math?" or "Don't you think it's a sign that I read astrological columns and you think it's nonsense?" Guide Cancers to your incompatibility, and they'll think it's their idea to say, "So long."

Leo
A Leo will split a gut laughing if you try to say you're not into 'em. It's impossible for the lion to conceive of any situation in which he or she isn't irresistible. They cannot be denied. The phrase, "It's not you, it's me," was invented for Leos. That is the only way to make it okay for you to walk away and keep your pride - and theirs - intact.

Virgo
Virgos are the most reasonable sign of the zodiac, but also the most self-critical, and you might do unnecessary damage if you end things too abruptly. Offer something about how you're worried that you're not healthy for each other (they are sticklers for doing the Right Thing). Take care to spare feelings. A Virgo ex can be a friend for life.

Libra
Libras love to love and hate to argue. They also crave harmony and partnership and get very distressed when they feel off balance. So if you have to bow out, do so by introducing your Libra ex to a new (next) love interest. You will have a hard time getting out if you can't supply a substitute. "Hey, I keep thinking that you and my friend were meant to meet. Can I introduce you?" That's the way to say it's over.

Scorpio
These deep and passionate people have thin skin. When you want to end things, tread carefully and be kind. A hurt Scorpion has a wicked sting. Tone down any physical contact first, then gently confess that you're just not feeling up for any close connections right now. Make it impersonal and keep your sensual side under wraps. Dress the part-look as unappealing as possible. They'll let you go if the sparks are gone.

Sagittarius
These truth-loving, resilient adventurers can take almost anything. No need to be brutal, but you can tell a Sagittarian that you're not into the relationship and you won't find an argument. Even if they are hurt, they won't remember it tomorrow because they'll already be dating someone new. Seriously, no worries here.

Capricorn
The dedicated and earnest Capricorn is very practical when it comes to love. Be honest and compassionate. The only hitch here is you shouldn't talk down or insult them. Letting 'em retain their dignity is key. Find a way to present a factual case of incompatibility, like carnivore versus vegan. If you're clear that it's just not going to work, it will end easily and without problems.

Aquarius
Aquarians are cerebral and a little spacey, so it can be hard to have a really personal conversation about feelings. Instead, use an indirect approach. Try a philosophical discussion of how differently you perceive love or how your idea of a good mate is very different from theirs. Conceptual incompatibility is a perfectly acceptable (and Aquarian) reason for going separate ways.

Pisces
The romantic and wishful Pisces does not like to be exposed to rejection in any way, shape or form. Here's the one sign where a tiny bit of fibbing might be OK. But if you can't get away with saying that you have to take a sudden and open-ended trip to see a sick aunt in Outer Mongolia, go with a nice and easy white lie-i.e., you're not able to give any time to a relationship, you're not being the person you want to be right now, you have to get your act together before you can be with someone else. Then stay away from them for a good long time so they can move on.

Astro-coach Barrie Dolnick helps people find love and happiness by understanding their stars and their karmic energy. She is the author of twelve books, including Simple Spells for Success, now in paperback. Her website is barriedolnick.com.