STAR GAZING

Aries March 20 April 18

The planet of ideas and communication, Mercury, goes retrograde two or, usually, three times a year. And during this particular cycle, which begins on the 23rd and continues until 15 March, Mercury will be in Aries. This means, often those errors will involve personal matters and, as often, they’ll be amazingly illuminating.

Taurus April 19 May 19

At the moment, you’re probably struggling with a range of tricky issues yet are being prevented from discussing those concerns openly. Be patient. When your ruler Venus actually moves into Taurus, at the end of the month, both your position and your ability to speak up will improve, and radically.

Gemini May 20 June 20

It’s the rare Gemini who avoids discussions, of any variety. You may know little or even have no interest in the topic in question, but still think you might learn something. And that’s not only true, what comes to light as the result of these unexpected encounters or experiences could be amazingly revealing.

Cancer June 21 July 21

The last thing you’re in the mood for are surprises. Yet with Mercury, planet of ideas, retrograde until mid-April, twists and turns are inevitable. Knowing that, when they arise, recognise them as offering a new idea if not an opportunity. This will motivate you to explore their potential, and with enthusiasm.

Leo July 22 August 21

If ever there was a time to take things slowly, it’s now. As a fire sign, this isn’t your usual style. But if you’ve tried to hurry things up, you’ll have realised it’s both unwise and unnecessary. The trick is to subdue your impatience. Achieve that, and you’ll enjoy the resulting leisurely pace.

Virgo August 22 September 21

Facts may be facts. But this is one of those times during which twists and turns in circumstances will raise questions about both existing arrangements and the plans you’re making that need to be discussed. Bear in mind that the changes you’re facing are ongoing, which means any decisions must be flexible.

Libra September 22 October 22

Having carefully analysed certain matters and organised plans accordingly, things seem settled. Still, be prepared for the powerful yet unsettling links between your ruler Venus and, currently, Pluto, then on the 29th, with unpredictable Uranus. While this indicates things are unlikely to proceed as expected, ultimately the resulting changes will prove amazingly timely.

Scorpio October 23 November 21

The last thing you’re inclined to do is explain why you’re so cautious about certain matters and protective of certain individuals. You tend to think that if others are unable to see what’s obvious to you, they’ll never understand. Actually, you’ve been so discreet about those facts, that you’ve left everybody completely mystified.

Sagittarius November 22 December 20

Although every sign is influenced by the confusion triggered by Mercury’s retrograde cycle, the fact it accents close relationships with both family and loved ones suggests you’ll be facing numerous misunderstandings. Don’t brush these off. In each is a single issue that, once dealt with, will explain other persistent, if not troubling, issues.

Capricorn December 21 January 18

While you’re extremely careful about checking facts, if you get something wrong, you’ll admit it, put things right, then move on. At the moment, however, you’re dealing with somebody who does all they can to avoid admitting to even minor errors. They won’t change, which means accepting this or saying farewell.

Aquarius January 19 February 17

While others will be worrying about the influence of the retrograde Mercury, and the accompanying confusion, you usually find the errors and unexpected events it triggers interesting if not highly informative. This will be the case again. In fact, you’ll be amazed and delighted how much you learn and who you meet.

Pisces February 18 March 19

The New Moon in your sign may have taken place nearly a week ago but you’re still learning from events then and, importantly, encountering new ideas. Some are not unexpected but a few are such a surprise you don’t know what to think of them. Explore each, knowing that, at minimum, you’ll learn something.