You probably have that one crunchy mate either in real life or on Facebook / Insta who’s plastering about “Mercury Going Retrograde” and how the world is basically going to come to a very dramatic astrological end for a few weeks.
I used to be the eye-rolling-calm-the-fuck-down-you-annoying-hippie kind but then I actually started paying attention to what was going on with me during these times and I’m sorry to say but I genuinely notice a difference when ole Mercury starts playing its tricks.
Okay so WTF is Mercury and why does it go Retrograde?
Without boring you to tears – the gist of it is that in ancient times, stargazers noticed that Mercury appeared to move backwards across the sky during this period. The short answer is that Mercury is closer to the sun than Earth and it passes us about 4 times a year. While it’s zooming past us, it appears that it’s moving backwards. Basically it’s just a galactic optical illusion that fucks all our shit up.
And why do we care about Mercury so much?
Mercury is the planet that rules all sorts of communication, contracts & codes.
- listening, speaking, reading, editing
- researching
- negotiating
- selling & buying
- contracts & agreements
- deeds, leases, wills etc.
- computer codes
- logistics (shipping, transport, travel)
If you look at these Three C’s – it’s all pretty important aspects in our lives. So when shit hits the fan – we really start to feel like we’re losing it.
“When a planet goes retrograde, astrologically it is in a resting or sleeping state. Therefore, while Mercury naps, the activities that it governs don’t have the benefit of a well-functioning, wide-awake planets to supervise them.”
What you should and shouldn’t do during this time.
Your best bet during this time is to just chill a little because it will probably be a huge head-fuck anyway. Even if you do work it all out, the outcome and decisions will probably change once life goes back to “normal”.
Try your best to avoid any of these:
- launch magazine, website, advertising or publicity campaign
- start new endeavors, businesses or ventures
- commit to new contracts, agreements, or even hand shakes
Just remember this is a phase so if you can’t avoid the above, keep in mind that the person/s you’re dealing might not be entirely to blame when things go wrong – they’re probably just as frustrated and confused as you are.
Other things to avoid during this time are…
Sending important documents – double check who you’re sending it to, that they receive it, and that you have your original copy.
Project change of direction – confirm all instructions clearly by summarising what your client is asking for before you do any new work.
Back up your electronics – phones, computers, tablets, cameras, BACK IT ALL UP BABE!!! We’re all crap at remembering to back up so use this as the perfect kick up the ass.
Don’t splash the cash – avoid buying or selling big ticket items such as cars, computers, real estate, holidays etc.
All is not doom-and-gloom…
This is a great time to Review, Revise & Redo what you already have going on. Just slow down a little, look at what you’re doing and how it’s working and work out a solid plan to improve moving forward.
We all need a little time to breathe so even if you’re reading this think “what a load of shit”, use it as an excuse for a little mental holiday!
Mercury Retrograde Dates 2018
March 22 to April 15
July 26 to August 18
November 16 to December 6
This post was written by referencing this fantastic original post which has a whole heap of extra info if you’re interested in finding out more.
