As we enter the Earth sign of Capricorn, we come into our tangible reality, the dedicated building of our dreams. It is ruled by Saturn, the planet of responsibility, discipline, boundaries and ambition. This celestial body holds within it the essence of destiny, mastery, resilience, strength, and wisdom. Both Saturn and Capricorn are here to guide us into our own unique mastery.

Capricorn under the influence of Saturn shows each of us our unique mountain and beckons us to begin our climb and to continue until we reach the very top. But it’s not only about reaching the peak, it’s about each moment of the ascent. It’s about who we become as we continue to meet and move through moments that we may not have thought we were strong enough to withstand. It’s who we show ourselves to be, step by step, as we find the inner resources we require, the trust in our strength, in the determination and capacity to build our visions into reality and make magic happen.

For an idea of how Capricorn functions in astrology and influences the tone of mid-December to mid-January, consider the sign’s ruler: Saturn, the planet of commitment, limitations, boundaries, rules, organization, and responsibility. It’s the tough professor of the solar system, pushing you to step up, grow up, and put your nose to the grindstone to graduate to the next level of whatever challenge it presents you with. In turn, Capricorn is one of the most goal-oriented, coolheaded, and driven signs, intent on developing step-by-step game plans for turning lofty aspirations into their daily reality.

Although the sun moves through Capricorn annually, the moon and other planets each have their own unique paths through the sky, making for a unique astrological picture of Capricorn season that differs from one year to the next.

As Capricorn season kicks off, Mercury, the planet of communication, transportation, and technology, will be retrograde in Capricorn, about to move backward into Sagittarius, which occurs on Dec. 23. Once it moves forward on Jan. 1 — which is kind of brilliant timing, if you think about it — you’ll be able to apply whatever you were reflecting on, revisiting, and revising during the retrograde.

A particularly electrifying moment occurs on Jan. 9 when the confident sun trines shocking Uranus, offering up lots of eye-opening inspiration and a rebellious vibe that could fuel any efforts to march to the beat of your own drum as the new year begins.

Mars, the planet of action, energy, and sex, will move through Capricorn from Jan. 4 to Feb. 12, setting a down-to-earth, practical, goal-oriented tone that makes it possible to build slow, steady momentum toward rational goals — at work and in your personal life, perhaps especially in the bedroom. On Jan. 12, Mars forms a harmonious trine to expansive Jupiter in Taurus, which could translate to a surge of go-getter, ambitious, competitive energy — and the ability to lock in results.

Here’s what every sign can expect this Capricorn season. Feel free to read the below based on your zodiac sign and/or rising sign, too.

Aries (March 20-April 19)

Throughout Sagittarius season, your focus might’ve been on your wanderlust and desire to meet people outside of your usual social circle, maybe even hone an intriguing new skill set. And as the sun moves through your tenth house of career and public image during Capricorn season, you can apply whatever you’ve learned over the past month to advance your professional standing. Step right up and claim that leadership position or talk to higher-ups during your annual review about taking on even more responsibility. You’re sure to make an applause-worthy impression now.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Although you’re a creature of habit, it’s possible you’ve been feeling a bit frustrated by your mundane routine, itching to see new sights, meet new people, and just generally broaden your horizons. That feeling is owed to the sun moving through your ninth house of higher learning and adventure now. Check in with your intuition in order to get clear on what you really want to achieve and what will bring you the greatest sense of fulfillment — whether that’s working with a mentor, signing up for a class, or planning an eye-opening globetrotting experience.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Capricorn season is your chance to connect in an even more meaningful way with loved ones or a significant other, Pisces, thanks to the confident sun’s trip through your eighth house of emotional bonds and intimacy. You could feel extra confident when expressing your sexual needs now. You’ll also become more conscious of what bolsters your sense of comfort and security — physically and emotionally. Opening up about these epiphanies and more can be truly empowering.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

With the confident sun moving through your seventh house of partnership now, Cancer, Capricorn season encourages you to zero in on your nearest and dearest friendship, relationship, maybe professional partnership. Meditate on how you’ve been showing up for these people and also consider how they’re meeting you halfway — or not. Reciprocity is a must, and if someone’s not giving as much as you, it could be time to reassess the connection.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

During Capricorn season, your ruler, the sun, takes a trip through your sixth house of routine and wellness, turning your focus to day-to-day ongoings and the ways in which you care for your inner balance. You might be eager to explore a new mind-body class, overhaul an organizational system in your home office, or say “no” more often so that you can zero in on projects that align with goals you’re particularly fired up about.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Sag season can actually inspire you to slow down a bit more than you typically would, because as the sun moves through your fourth house of home life, you’re in the mood for more quality time with family and cozy homebody activities, like journaling, zhushing your home office, or snuggling up with your S.O. to watch your favorite movies. But once it slips into Capricorn, it’s a whole new chapter, because the sun in your fifth house of romance and self-expression fuels your desire to flirt, express yourself creatively, make spontaneous plans with loved ones, and be more playful than usual. In other words, this is one of the most fun times of year for you, Virgo — and you deserve to enjoy it!

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct 22)

Over the past month, as the sun has moved through Sagittarius, it’s been in your third house of communication, which tends to amplify social commitments and your desire to connect with others. (Yes, even more than usual!) But now that it’s in your fourth house of home life, you’ll find the pace of life gets a bit slower and cozier. You can focus even more on one of your favorite pastimes: bonding with your VIPs.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Although you tend to prefer to be especially discriminating about who you make time for on your busy calendar, Capricorn season is all about saying “yes” to social plans more often for you, Scorpio, thanks to the sun’s trip through your third house of communication. Your curiosity also soars, pumping up your appetite to learn something new, ideally alongside friends. And if you’ve been aching to hit the road and see new sights, you may also have the chance to do so now. A short-distance trip could prove just as satisfying as an overseas adventure.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

The sun’s trip through your sign is always lovely, because it’s your birthday season, which can have you lighting up the room even more than usual. But now that it has slipped into your second house of income, you can take any big picture ideas or passion projects you’ve been batting around and actually turn them into something concrete. You’ll be eager to start putting one foot in front of the other and seeing your vision come to life. Just be sure that whatever you’re working on is also in line with your values, as that’s the secret to succeeding now.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Welcome to your season, Capricorn! Sagittarius season tends to boost your desire to carve out extra solo time, given that the sun moves through your twelfth house of spirituality. However, now that it’s in your first house of self, you can step into the spotlight with a surge of confidence. You’ll be extra conscious of how you’re presenting yourself, perhaps even inspired to makeover your website, business cards, or social media presence. This can also be a productive time to get extra clear on exactly what you want to achieve — and begin to say it out loud, as that’s the first step toward manifestation.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

With the sun in your twelfth house of spirituality now, it’s almost like you’re backstage, chilling out and daydreaming and perhaps also waiting with anticipation to step out under the hot lights. You might be apt to prioritize self-reflection and learn from your dreams. You’ll also benefit from nurturing your psychological well-being with a mind-body practice (like journaling or meditating).

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

While the confident sun moves through your eleventh house of networking, Pisces, your appetite for teamwork soars. You want to feel connected to others and as though you’re a part of a group effort. And if there’s a long-term aspiration you’ve been wanting to work toward, trading notes with others can help you gain even more clarity around the best game plan for making it a reality. You’ll also feel reassured that you’re part of a community that makes you feel seen and appreciated for what you bring to the table.