WELCOME TO MERCURY RETROGRADE

We are beginning this week with a slightly rough start. On Monday, Mercury will go retrograde. As usual, this transit lasts three weeks, and during this time, plans may go awry and not as expected. Avoid signing contacts or starting new projects, and make sure you stay flexible and don’t get too worked up when things don’t go how you hoped they would. The good news: There’s only one more Mercury retrograde left to endure in 2024. The bad news: It just started. From late November through mid December, Mercury, the planet in communication, will be retrograde in the sign of Sagittarius.

What to Expect: During this time, as always, there is more room for misunderstandings, things not going as planned, and suddenly changing your mind about things; you could also expect travel delays

What to Do: Stay flexible and make sure that you have all the information necessary before making decisions

What Not to Do: Avoid signing contracts if you can and don’t make major commitments during this time period. It is more a time for reflecting and reviewing things

Within this particular retrograde, Dec. 5 is the luckiest date because Mercury will be aligning with the sun, giving it power and strength. If there is anything important that you wish to take care of or say that is the moment to do it. Before and after Dec. 5, beware of travel and communication mishaps, as well as technological issues — so remember to back your work up. During retrogrades — and they happen to all planets, not just Mercury — it appears that a planet is moving backward. In actuality, Earth overtakes a slower-moving planet in its orbit around the sun or is overtaken by a faster-moving planet.

Within astrology, retrogrades are said to slow the area that a planet governs. Mercury governs travel and communication, so expect potential mishaps in those realms. But Mercury retrograde offers a window to slow down and reconsider our choices. We’re able to reassess and re-commit to projects, relationships and endeavors that have fallen to the sidelines. This Mercury retrograde might make you nostalgic, but remember — it’s OK to leave some things in the past. The point isn’t the open old wounds but to heal from them. Use the retrograde as a time of catharsis, not a moment to fester regrets.

Here’s what to know about this current Mercury retrograde, including horoscopes for how it may affect your sign

Aries: Give yourself extra time in case there are travel delays on your way to holiday events. You might get stuck in traffic that hasn’t been reported on the GPS or have to change flights. Do yourself a favor and leave early so you don’t get caught up in the mess.

Taurus: Your patience might be lower than usual because you are exhausted. Try not to push yourself to the limit and know when you need to take a break. Listen to what your body and mind are telling you to avoid burnout. 

Gemini: You’ll be quick to jump to conclusions and get irritated about what you presume others think of you. But does their opinion really matter? Work on raising self-esteem this month so you worry less about others’ perception of you.

Cancer: This Mercury retrograde might deplete your energy. You might find yourself running late constantly. Instead of getting mad, take a deep breath and relax. You won’t be able to figure out how to resolve problems unless you’re calm.

Leo: A former love may re-enter the picture — maybe it’s a person, or maybe it’s a beloved hobby or phase of your life. Try to remain practical about your feelings, rather than get swept away.

Virgo: Old family matters from many years ago could come to light, forcing you to reconcile the situation. You’re older now. You are allowed to say how you feel. Doing so will help you heal, grow, and maybe forge a better connection.

Libra: Before sending a text or email, check your tone. You may be unintentionally coming off as rash and impulsive in your wording. This retrograde’s keywords: Demure and mindful!

Scorpio: Your finances might be erratic in the upcoming weeks. Maintain a budget to monitor your spending. Consider shopping the sales and sticking to your gift list. Don’t detour from the original plan to save your bank account from taking a big hit.

Sagittarius: Your mind might be on overdrive thanks to from Mercury’s moonwalk on your sun sign. If you’re feeling reflective, start journaling. Allow your emotions to come out instead of holding them in.

Capricorn: It may turn out that someone you trusted has betrayed your confidence. If secrets come out, take charge by saying the point of view from your perspective. Be honest and concise to ensure the rumors don’t take flight and your side of the story is heard.

Aquarius: ‘Tis the season for reconnecting with friends and family to share in the seasonal joy. Plan a get-together with familiar faces and those you’ve lost touch with to rejuvenate the relationships. Reminisce, laugh and create new memories together.

Pisces: If you’re up for a promotion at work, double-check the position’s requirements to ensure you aren’t in over your head. More broadly speaking, now’s the time to let in a trusted advisor to talk through options. You’re not in it alone.