Heavy is the head that wears the crown — and a little confused, too! All week long, the sun blazes through Capricorn, the sign of ultimate success. But signal-scrambler Mercury retrograde is also in the frame, and on Thursday the two heavenly bodies will make an exact connection. As a result, our #goals could either feel overarching or underwhelming, and we’ll need to make some tweaks. During Capricorn season we’ll all care a little more than we should about status. Assess: Are we in the game for the right reasons, or has a desire to impress and “keep up” led us astray? If a mission is not fulfilling on a soul level, it should probably just get crossed off the 2016 resolution list.
Love also arrives with an air of gravitas. For the first half of the week, amorous Venus is bedded down with schoolmarm Saturn making it hard to generate excitement about amour. (Or even get it up for much of anything.) In fact, we could all be a little too freaked out about the future to enjoy the now! Should talks veer into the, “Where is this relationship heading?” or “Do you like me…like THAT?” territory (and trust us, they will), engage a sense of humour. If you can’t, then stop the convo short and save it for a moment when you’re both in a proactive, confident mood. And that could be Saturday! The quarter moon in energetic, innovative Aries will restore our joie de vivre this weekend. Aries is the “all about me” sign, meaning the attention should shift back on ourselves — exactly what’s needed to bring our closest connections back into balance.
Capricorn
Fantasy or reality? Usually, you’re the one reminding everyone that the emperor has no clothes. But this week, you could find it hard to discern between the two categories. For one thing, the sun and befuddling Mercury retrograde are mingling in Capricorn, which is throwing off your intuition. Don’t rely on hunches alone! If something feels off-kilter, shift into Sherlock Holmes mode and investigate. Also, your ruling planet stalwart Saturn is getting a rose-coloured infusion from dreamy Venus for the first half of the week. You want to see everything in a romanticised light, but you could also sweep some bona fide red flags under the rug.
The upside of this astrological transit is that it can lower some of your defences. Let’s be honest, Capricorn, you can be a little (cough) “socially selective” at times. As a result, you often pass over people who don’t look the part of success, as you define it. Allow people to pleasantly surprise you this week. There’s at least one person in your everyday environment who deserves a second chance! That could even be a family member this weekend — or a former member of your girl gang. With Saturday’s quarter moon nesting in your intimate fourth house, give priority to one of your favourite confidantes, like your mom, sister, or BFF from back in the day.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aquarius
Friends, foes, or frenemies? There could be some reshuffling going on this week, as social Venus makes an appointment with serious Saturn. Although they broke the mould when they made you, Aquarius, you rarely have trouble attracting amigos. If anything, you can be quick to bless people with the homegirl/boy label — and that can lead to some disappointment this week. With Mercury retrograde meeting the sun in your shady 12th house, there’s a good chance Thursday will be a dicey day. Don’t make excuses if someone’s actions feel like a betrayal. Not even if the infraction is minor. Instead, meet for coffee and have a heart-to-heart. Hey, maybe you did come across as more chill about boundaries than you actually are. Correct people’s misconceptions and see how they respond. Then, you’ll know whether to give them a pass or a block.
On the flip side, someone you cast off too quickly could show their true nature — and you’ll quite like it. With Saturday’s quarter moon in your communication house, invite this mislabelled acquaintance to hang out with you. The conversation will be stimulating, even if your differing styles draw stares. Revel in those gawking glances, Aquarius: You love a little shock value anyway. And with your endorsement, your other friends will be more likely to embrace this newcomer as part of your motley crew.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Pisces
Got friends in high places, Pisces? Early this week, social Venus and accomplished Saturn sail together through your 10th house, grooming you for success. A little politicking and power lunching can massage your most important connections now. Lightly touch on business topics, of course, alluding to some of the exciting projects you’ve got on deck. The goal is to leave people intrigued and wanting to hear more — not to make an entire presentation. If you’re still the little fish in the big pond, find ways to break the ice with the bigwigs. Volunteering a few hours to help out on a special project might be the fastest way to get your foot in the door. Remember: This temporary sacrifice should pay off when you have those VIPs in your back pocket.
Team Pisces gets a shakedown on Thursday, when the sun syncs up with Mercury retrograde. Much as you’d like to believe in people’s innate goodness, there are certain people who are just too troubled to find their light. Not even with your compassion and commitment to their success. Besides, one rotten apple really can spoil the barrel. Even if you remain friends with this misguided soul, don’t force your friends and teammates to suffer through their antics — they might go mutinous if you do! Spend time this weekend working on your Q1 budget. If your bills are draining your entire paycheque some adjustments may be necessary, like getting a roommate or another part-time job.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aries
There’s no way around it, Aries: You’re going to have to make time for The Talk this week. With social Venus and structure-obsessed Saturn sharing a flight path, you want to know how people truly feel about you. The truth may be stranger than fiction, but also quite scintillating. At work, don’t brush off the shade someone’s been throwing you, nor their radio silence. Your intuition is sharp. When something feels “off,” it usually is. The good news is, this doesn’t have to be a huge ordeal. Don’t come out swinging and hurling accusations — something your hotheaded sign can default to. Instead, lean in to Venus’ diplomacy and Saturn’s penchant for finding practical solutions. What’s your ideal outcome? Paint a picture of the bright future you want to co-create, and you’ll have an easier time getting people on board.
Saturday is all about you, as the quarter moon in Aries lends you its balancing beams. Now, you can get down to some real resolution-setting. But first, what about those “sooo 2015” anchors that are still weighing you down? Cut out the unfulfilling extras from your budget, schedule, and even your friend lists. Then, start filling those blank spaces in your schedule with activities and people that bring you bliss.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Taurus
Did someone crank up the thermostat, or is it getting kind of hot in here? An attraction could get serious this week, as sultry Venus and structured Saturn lock down in your erotic eighth house. But forget fly-by-night hookups and ephemeral right swipes. Unless there’s potential for a real-deal relationship, you can’t (and shouldn’t) be bothered. Wondering if your deeper feelings are reciprocated? Create an opportunity for some strategic (and private!) one-on-one time to broach the “I’m into you” conversation. Planning a shared future could even be the subject of some spicy pillow talk.
And are you sitting down, Taurus? Secrets may be revealed this week, especially on Thursday when the illuminating sun makes a direct connection with Mercury retrograde. While your jaw may land on the ground, check the judgments that arise. Everyone has some sort of a past — even you, if you’re honest about it. A couple questions to fire off: How is the “offending party” dealing with the issue? Have they truly overcome these demons? Research all the facts before you make a final decision. Saturday’s quarter moon lends some compassion to the equation, but also reminds you of the importance of keeping firm boundaries in place if involvement will complicate your life.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Gemini
Exes and ohs! That’s the theme of this week for you, Gemini. Brace yourself for the WTF hotline bling, but also for a text from a past figure from whom you’re actually happy to hear. Why is this happening? The sun and Mercury retrograde are co-piloting through your intense and erotic eighth house, making an exact connection on Thursday. This calls forth the ghosts of lovers past — yikes. It might be you who is dwelling, wondering whatever happened to so-and-so. And while you can convince yourself that a friends-with-benefits arrangement could be suitable this time around, be honest: If you obsessed before, you’ll obsess again. Honestly, Gem, this could be the best sex you never had.
A good reason for staying open: Amorous Venus and solid Saturn spend the first half of the week entwined in your committed-partnership zone. Together, they’ll call in people who can go the distance — both for pleasure AND business. Keep your radar on for creative collaborators all week. Already paired off? You could finally get (or give) a spare key, a dedicated dresser drawer, or some other significant token of commitment. Don’t be afraid to broach heavier topics about the future. For a change it’s you who wants some certainty.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Cancer
Be still, thy beating — or is that bleeding — heart. While it’s great that you care so much (you really, really do), your nurturing nature needs to be checked for a minute. Early in the week amorous Venus aligns with cautious Saturn, firing the warning shot. Giving until you’re depleted is NOT the way to prove your allegiance. Not in the boardroom and not in the bedroom, Cancer. What happens is the opposite of your intended effect: Instead of being appreciated, you go from maven to martyr, or in other words: “hot mama” to “mother hen.” Holding back strategically could work in your favour. While you don’t want to make anyone panic, it might be good for certain people to worry a little more about hanging on to a gem like you. The hardest part will be watching them struggle — and not rushing in for the save!
A past partner could pop up midweek, when the sun and Mercury retrograde align in your relationship house. Prep yourself: Hindsight will be anything but 20/20, and you could gloss over the complications that broke you up last go 'round. This isn’t hopeless, though! If you’re both willing to work through those knots, a sexy sequel could be in store!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Leo
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to see your name in lights, Leo — or to be known for accomplishing something important. Devote yourself to that mission early this week as masterful Saturn connects to Venus, the cosmic creatrix in your fifth house of fame and leadership. Work behind the scenes to bring your magnum opus to fruition. Enlist a teacher or coach if you need guidance. Investing in yourself always pays off. If you have a finished product or project to show off, assemble a group of trusted friends as your first audience. Let them give feedback and make the final tweaks, so you can go public when Mercury ends its retrograde on the 25th of January.
Are you getting the respect you deserve at work? A midweek merger of the sun and Mercury retrograde helps you assess honestly. Projecting the right image does matter if you want to be taken seriously. Make sure to sound confident, too: If you’re ending every sentence with a question mark, you won’t reveal your true confidence and competence. On the other hand, being humble is not the same as being a doormat. It’s all about finding the right balance. Practice makes perfect, but a few minor tweaks could help you break on through to the other (better-paying) side.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Virgo
Summon your GFs, Virgo. Supportive sisters will help you stay grounded this week — which could prove challenging in moments. The radiant sun and Mercury retrograde unite in your fifth house of romance and drama, making an exact connection on Thursday. Translation? Any hidden issues in your love life will get hit with the high beams, forcing you to deal. Deep breaths: This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Better you should smooth out those wrinkles before they turn into bulging barricades. But since expressive Mercury’s in reverse, your important message could get lost in translation if you don’t practice a little. This is where your girls come in. Call a cocktail-hour summit and ask them to help you hash it out. The right time to talk to your other half: when there’s no more smoke coming out of your ears.
Single Virgos could even hear from an ex — or get caught dwelling on “the one that got away.” Let this be a signal that you need to get out more often. Post some new pictures on your dating profile or reroute your extracurricular plans to locations where Cupid could strike. With Saturday’s quarter moon in Aries stoking embers in your erotic eighth house, you could meet someone who meets your particular standards. This is also a day when some Virgos will have to deliver an ultimatum. The question to ask is simple: Are you in or are you out?
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Libra
Work the buddy system, Libra. A promising partnership could turn into a dynamic duo before the week is half through. That’s because stabilising Saturn links arms with your celestial ruler Venus, with both planets orbiting through your cooperative, communicative third house. If you’ve never teamed up before, test the waters with a short-term project. That way, you can see if your working styles truly mesh without the stakes being insanely high. Venus governs love: Someone who’s been “just a friend” could suddenly appear in a more romantic light. If you’re in a relationship, you might even team up with your partner on a creative mission or a co-hosted event. Don the social director’s hat and get some entertainment on the books. No need for anyone in the Libra entourage to suffer from the winter blues!
All is not quiet on the home front, however. On Thursday, the sun syncs up with Mercury retrograde, shining a light on some domestic issues. No more sweeping these problems under the living-room rug, Libra. Call a house meeting to hash out conflicts with relatives or roomies — or that noisier-than-necessary neighbour upstairs. Maybe THEY are the ones who have the issue. But if you’ve been getting the cold shoulder, eye rolls, or deep sighs every time you walk into the room, take command and give them a chance to air their grievances. Try not to get defensive — a compromise can be reached, especially with Saturday’s harmonising quarter moon.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Scorpio
Your lust for life’s finer things will be damn near insatiable this week, Scorpio. Looking like money can attract money, yes, it’s true. But before you add expensive numbers to your cart, shop in your own closet. Pull out all the pieces you’re still somewhat excited to wear in 2016. Remove the rest from the hangers and divide them into two categories: Donate and Store for Future. As for the keepers? Try assembling them — and actually hanging them — as outfits. Once you’ve taken inventory, you’ll know what missing essentials to add. These should be classics, Scorpio. Invest in quality upgrades, even if you have to start a special savings account for that. Of course, knowing you, a great eBay score could be in the cards. Saturday would be a good day for shopping, since the quarter moon in your selective sixth house will keep your mission focused and pragmatic.
Be careful what you type, text, tweet, or Snapchat this week! On Thursday, Mercury retrograde gets put on blast by the sun when they meet up in your communication house. Your musings could be mistaken for a subtle dig — and don’t go bashing anyone overtly, either! Burning bridges is never a smart idea, especially when it comes to people you see on a near-daily basis. When answering emails, check whose name is in the reply box. This is one of those weeks when you could send out a snarky response companywide by hitting reply all.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Sagittarius
Feeling under-appreciated? No more laying your pearls before swine, Sagittarius. This week romantic Venus and grounded Saturn unite in your sign, making it clear that you need to start investing in yourself a little more — and spoiling others less. Don’t get mad, though. We teach people how to treat us, after all. In your zeal to be a good partner, friend, coworker, bandmate, etc., you’ve taken on too much. Get clear on the support you’d like to receive from your cohorts, and then call a meeting. You can spell out a more equitable game plan on Thursday, when the sun and Mercury retrograde combine forces to help you tweak and refine. An old source of income may flow in then, too, or you could hear from a former colleague about a new opportunity.
Make pleasure a priority this weekend, as the quarter moon in Aries shines its balancing beams into your luxuriating fifth house. Have you been keeping yourself so busy that you’ve barely had time to relax? Reshuffle your schedule, STAT. It’s far too early in the year to even discuss burnout. Romantically, the weekend brings some much-needed balance. Have a talk about “expectations” to make sure you and the object of your affections are on the same page. Infuse more fun time into relationships that have been a little “lather, rinse, repeat.” Dressing up and going out with the girls could snag you an early Valentine!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
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