Step one, down the cup of courage. Step two, chase with a shot of truth serum. It's Speak Your Mind week in astroland, stargazers, so prepare your speech. With the moon in honest-to-a-fault Sagittarius from Tuesday to Thursday, we'll all feel pumped to express ourselves. But do apply a few filters! Sagittarius energy can be a little too rapid-fire (or downright tactless) for its own good. Before getting on the IRL or social media soapbox, do a few integrity checks. Throwing people under the bus or making unresearched claims could start an all out war — and we might not be up for that battle. But if it's time to call out that naked emperor — for the good of everyone — let it rip, then drop the mic.
Saint Valentine pops by for a prequel on Friday, as love planet Venus and passionate Pluto conjoin at the same degree of Capricorn. #RelationshipGoals could top the weekend agenda, as well as getting super serious about finding, keeping, and locking down the love we want. Oh yeah, and the Friday night sexcapades will be mind-blowing. But be warned: our loins could write a cheque that our souls can't cash. On Sunday, a clash between the sun and Mars can give us all a case of claustrophobia if we fence ourselves in too tight. Good rule of thumb: Join at the lips, not the hips.
Aquarius
Summon your squad and let the collaborations commence. With the moon in your teamwork zone from Tuesday to Thursday, you're a total people magnet. And with la luna at an auspicious angle to the Aquarius sun, you'll attract people who adore you for your quirks, idiosyncrasies, and offbeat solutions to navigating life. This is also the tech sector of your chart, so don't hang on for dear life to that iPhone 4 with the cracked screen. Investing in upgrades, and even learning a new piece of software could make life more efficient and profitable this week.
Friday could be emotional as shadowy Pluto and love planet Venus connect in your 12th house of healing. Your logical nature won't serve as a defence near the week's end. Drop your guard and give your feelings the airtime they deserve — never an easy process for your "keep it cool and casual" sign. Letting friends see the softer side of Aquarius won't actually be awkward; in fact, it can have the magical effect of really sealing your bonds. Check those authority issues on Sunday. With feisty Mars butting heads with the Aquarius sun, you're all, "no one is the boss of me!" But some rules are in place for a reason, like to keep you safe and sane. Before you go raging against the machine, find out why exactly certain people are saying no to you. It might not be as personal as you assumed.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Pisces
Keep that power suit pressed and ready. It's going to be a productive — and profitable — week at work, thanks to the moon trucking through your 10th house of success. Have you been wasting time on the middle men? Gracefully find a way around them, because you'll get faster results by going straight to the top. Speak up in staff meetings and pitch ideas to clients and colleagues. Your gambling instincts could really pay off, as long as you back up your daring propositions with facts and figures.
On Friday, get real about who you consider an actual friend. With loving Venus and take-no-prisoners Pluto aligned in your social networking zone, you'll have to do some filtering. Although your heart may melt for people's charm, does your intuition tell you that something's not quite right? One rotten apple CAN spoil the barrel (and even come between you and your love interest), so put up boundaries with questionable characters until their records clear. The Venus-Pluto merger can lead you to your soul tribe this weekend — friends who inspire you to create art, dig deeper, and tap into the mystery and magic of being alive. Careful not to overload your Sunday schedule — or to go too far off the grid. Wanderlust strikes, but you could get so caught up in the dreamy haze that you wind up leaving a friend in the lurch.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aries
Here come the mic drops. You are on fire this week, Aries. You're killing it with your witty one-liners, laced with so much honesty and humour, that people just have to give it up to you. And while there's nothing more enrapturing than an Aries uncensored, make sure your jokes don't hit below the belt. Hurting feelings will create a hostile climate, one that could make your life fairly miserable. Before you say it, tweet it, or fire it off in a Snap, ask yourself: How would I feel if someone talked about me this way?
Your inner tycoon takes the wheel on Friday as charming Venus and powerhouse Pluto lock in step through your ambitious 10th house. Cancel plans to meet friends at the dive bar because you'll want to socialise strategically as the workweek wraps. Head to that event for a bit of networking. You could make an important connection during intermission at the opera, or while ordering your martini at the bar. On Sunday, group dynamics could get super tense, but your job, Aries, is to avoid taking sides. No one is completely innocent here. Investigate independently before making any judgment calls.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Taurus
Keep your head up, Taurus! The workweek could be rather intense for you, as the moon swirls through your stormy eighth house from Tuesday to Thursday. Jealous feelings could overwhelm your circuits and distract you from your goals. But instead of acting on that envy, use it as a guide. It's showing up for a reason: to point you to one of your deep down desires. But no need to "covet thy neighbour" or begrudge them success. Get to work on your own remix of what they have — or step up your game if you've been coasting. You could also try this next level challenge: Ask the person you're jealous of to share some guidance and advice. You never know, they might just become your personal mentor.
Weekend plans should include a change of scenery with a side of strong romantic potential. On Friday, wanderlust (emphasis on lust) hits hard as love planet Venus and seductive Pluto align in your travel zone. Pack your carry-on and go visit a fun-loving single friend — the one who knows tons of interesting, attractive people. Coupled bulls, how about renting that adorable cabin in the woods or a night in a haute hotel with killer views and even better spa services? On Sunday, your goals could clash with an important partner-in-crime. Under the day's combustible star-map, finding a compromise will be impossible. Go to your corners and cool down — this doesn't have to be a deal-breaker, but you might need a little more independence in order to move ahead.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Gemini
Partnering up with other people basically gives a Gemini life. You're the zodiac's twin, after all! And this week, opportunities to flex that tag team muscle will be plentiful. From Tuesday through Thursday, the moon hovers in Sagittarius and your seventh house of partnerships. But instead of cruising for a doppelganger, follow the rule of "opposites attract." Adding a complementary force to the equation can take your plans to the next level. Remember, relationships are mirrors. If you don't like the way other people are approaching you, check your own attitude first. You might be putting them on the defensive, or overwhelming them by coming on too strong. Before accusing, it might be worth it to honestly ask, "Did I do something to offend you?"
Wrap the work week with an intimate one-on-one. On Friday, a seriously seductive connection between Venus and Pluto goes down — and in your erotic eighth house to boot. Some legendary loving is in the stars, but the kind you might only share with your locked diary. A connection that's been bubbling could explode into a mind-blowing night of passion. But there may also be an element of secrecy — or scandal — involved here, so check ring fingers and steer clear of temptation that could mess with a job, an important friendship, or your overall sense of integrity. On Sunday, watch your words! You're only trying to be helpful, but firing off unsolicited advice could drive a wedge between you and a friend. Be careful what you share in conversation, too. Spilling someone else's business "out of concern" could damage trust all around.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Cancer
Stop giving them the side-eye, Cancer. What's needed now are constructive critiques, not annoyance or judgment, even if it's justified. With the moon in candid Sagittarius from Tuesday to Thursday, down the cup of courage and share your feedback at work. But make sure you're coming from a proactive place. It's easy to see what's not working. However, before you address matters, take time to brainstorm at least three creative solutions — even if one of them is to schedule a day of brainstorming so you can all hash out a better action plan together.
Cupid love bombs you on Friday — and it could get intense! With cosmic vixen Venus and seductive Pluto making a direct connection in your relationship house, don't be surprised if you tumble head over high-tops for a new love. If you've been holding a good one at arm's length, the Venus-Pluto merger will suddenly want to make you pull them as close to you as possible. Don't be shy. Already spoken for? Screen out the rest of the world and enjoy some quality twosome time on Friday. You might even slip off for a sexy overnight — roaring fireplace, bear skin rug, and Champagne on the nightstand, all a plus. But check yourself on Sunday when a combustible combo of the sun and Mars could bring out your shadowy emotions like jealousy, suspicion, and control. It's fine to feel those feels and vent to a friend, but acting on them? Quite possibly the worst idea ever.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Leo
All the world is your runway Leo, so break out your fashion girl best. With the moon circulating through Sagittarius and your flamboyant fifth house for most of the workweek, you want to make a statement in every way. People will be inspired by your creativity — and don't be surprised if a random style blogger snaps your photo as you walk to work or you wind up with a Thursday night date after an equally charismatic cutie stops to compliment your style. If you're feeling competitive, run with it. Shameless self-promotion is sanctioned under these stars, as long as you play fair, and don't tread into cutthroat terrain. It's fine that you want to be the best at what you do. But to win fans, put the focus on what's in it for them, too.
You're a little bit out of sync with the world this week though, because on Friday, the festive vibes will be replaced by a desire get into a healthy, organised groove. Forgo the noisy club scene and head to a candlelight yoga class. With cosmic creatrix Venus and strategic Pluto aligned, you could get your space set up in a way that's both functional and beautiful — or even paint and decorate your entire bedroom on Saturday afternoon. Stepping in to support a friend-in-need could be a worthwhile act of loyalty that seals your bond. One hitch: magnanimous Leos don't always know where the line is between caring and codependence. Don't rush in and fix it for them. Remember that the best way to help others is to empower them to help themselves.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Virgo
The wisdom of your heart is beating like a Kanye hook — listen up! Maybe you've told yourself that your feelings don't matter; maybe you're wondering if you're overreacting. But if you don't tune in, you might explode. Grab your diary and do some unfiltered scrawling. Gather with girlfriends for midweek heart-to-hearts over comfort food. Choose a venue with low lighting and the right volume of background noise — loud enough to block out conversations from the adjacent table, but soft enough so your sentiments can be heard. Obviously you'll need to talk directly to the person in question soon. But first, you'll want to distill exactly what's going on inside you. And that's best done with levelheaded outsiders who can help you find your centre and talk you through to your truth.
Romantically, Friday could be epic! With amorous Venus and searingly seductive Pluto combining forces in your fifth house of love, Valentine's Day could come a little early in 2016. No hiding your feelings though, Virgo, or playing it cool. You might even deliver a loving-but-firm ultimatum to someone who has been keeping you in the maybe zone for too long. This cosmic combo won't be for the faint of heart. Talks could turn to marriage, babies, cohabitation, and shared lifelong dreams. If you're on the same page...swoon! On Sunday, don't leave anything up to memory or chance. If you agree to do something, put it in writing. This will also hold other people accountable to the promises they make to you, and ensure that you are both aligned around shared commitments and goals.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Libra
At some point, Libra, you have to stop deliberating and simply accept that what you have to say, write, or put into song lyrics is not only good enough, but it's worthwhile for other people to hear. With the moon lighting up your communication sector from Tuesday to Thursday, your words pack a punch. Make like a throwback N.W.A. track and express yourself. Float your innovative ideas by friends — if not your entire Snapchat circle. The point of this exercise is to get a dialogue going, not to lock down a lifetime achievement award. Yet.
On Friday, heart opening Venus and secret keeper Pluto make a rare connection in in your sensitive fourth house. After a social week, staying in sounds like a fine idea — and maybe a sexy one if you have someone you'd love to cook dinner with, and then cuddle on the couch while reminiscing about your childhoods. If you're emotional, swaddle yourself in support from girlfriends, or even your family. Your feelings matter, okay? Should you find yourself craving alone time this weekend, go with it. Reading, lounging, and relaxing will set you up for Sunday's visit from the muse. Channel all those sentiments into a cathartic work of art — or spend the day gallery hopping or enjoying activities that put you in a romantic headspace. One caveat: Stay on a budget. You'll actually be more creative when you have to work with limited (or free...hello, Mother Nature) resources.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Scorpio: Let the cleanup commence! You're on a mission to get organised this workweek, Scorpio. And you might halt all other operations until you do so. Trying to be productive when you're surrounded by chaos is just a waste of time and a mindf***. But this is more than just a general dusting, Scorpio. Think: systems. Make sure every object in your space has a place to call home: a drawer, hanger, basket, or file folder where you can easily store and find it. A furniture investment may be necessary, whether you hit Habitat for that new cabinet or opt for one of these space-saving solutions.
This weekend is for mending fences with a sibling, BFF, or another important person from your inner circle. But that doesn't mean you have to silence yourself. On Friday, your ruler, secret keeper Pluto, makes a direct connection to diplomatic Venus in your communication house. Finally: You can get an issue off your chest without the fear of offending the other person. Finding win-win compromises will be a lot easier under these stars; in fact, come into the conversation with a couple of creative compromises in mind. But no soft-shoeing here, Scorpio. You have to 'fess up to your feelings, too. And if you feel utterly stuck, you could start the conversation with an honest admission. For example, "I really want to improve the way we communicate with each other, but I'm not sure how to do it. Can we discuss?" Sure, it might all sound a bit formal — but if you're moving in the direction of connection (instead of drifting like breakaway pieces of the polar ice caps...glug) you are on the right path.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Sagittarius
Damn it feels good to be a Sagittarius this week. With the moon partying in your sign from Tuesday to Thursday, you'll be at the top of everyone's favourites list. Your sparkling wit and bright spirit are the clinchers, so don't hold back when your inner comedian-slash-motivational speaker starts downloading one-liners into your brain. Let your independent spirit shine, too! As much as you're a people person, you also need room to roam. Keep your afterwork schedule a bit more flexible. Wandering spontaneously through a neighbourhood you adore could bring inspiration galore, not to mention the discovery of amazing bars, new friends to chat with, and a workshop you absolutely have to take.
On Friday, love planet Venus syncs up with sultry Pluto in your sensual second house. This would be a night to spend in, Archer — curled up in bed with you-know-who and the slow jams bumping. If you do go out, keep it classy: Craft cocktails at a gorgeous bar, a foreign film, or a gallery opening. Surrounding yourself with art and beauty restores your soul, and you could click with a fellow culture vulture while gazing analytically at a neo-Dada sculpture. On Sunday, shield your field! You'll be ultra sensitive to every word, and prone to taking someone's teasing personally. Steer clear of people who push your buttons this weekend. You could fire off a retort — in pure, unfiltered Sagittarius style — that turns a minor disagreement into a battle royale!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Capricorn
Ready, set...cleanse? With the moon in Sagittarius and your transitional 12th house from Tuesday to Thursday, put your focus on decluttering before bringing in anything new. While systematising and scrubbing your physical space is a must, a deeper clean may be necessary. If your energy has been sluggish, don't make it worse with a deprivation-based (and fuel-zapping) all-juice "detox." (The truth on those here.) Instead, make subtle shifts like trimming way back on refined sugar, alcohol, and caffeine for the week, and recharging with lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh, organic produce.
Friday will be epic, so rest up. Radiant Venus and ultra-magnetic Pluto align in your sign, a rare cosmic event that gives you the Midas Kylie Jenner touch. Schedule any pitches, presentations, power lunches, and power dates for this day, or even in a more casual setting over the weekend. You'll be as seductive as a snake charmer with these two planets on your team! Romantically, you can't ignore your truth under these stars. What — and who — you want will be as clear as a bell on Friday. If you're not getting it, you'd better speak up...lovingly, that is. Remember, people aren't mind readers, and it's up to you to ask for what you need in relationships of all manner.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
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