Astro4Business Intersections

Astro4Business Week – February 8

Feb 7

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Week | 1 Comment

Phases of the Moon, as seen from the Northern Hemisphere. The Southern hemisphere will see a mirror image of this phase. (Source:Wikipedia)

Hello everyone.

This week gathers together different gods: Neptune is strong and Mercury active in the skies; the great Lord Shiva from the Hindu tradition and his sacred night, Maha Shivaratri; and Saint Valentine’s Day, a Christian overlay of the earlier festival Lupercalia, which celebrated Juno, the goddess of marriage and fertility. We have Venus and Cupid decorating the various greeting cards, plus two planets changing signs, and the New Moon! A packed week, all easy except for a Mercury/Mars opposition, but there’s always something to keep us awake, right?

Monday

Advertisement for Prang's greeting cards, 1883. (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

On Monday, Venus conjoins Neptune which tunes you into the subtle wavelengths affecting you and others, particularly your customers. If you tune in, you’ll sense exactly what the situation requires. Inspiration becomes tangible today.

Wednesday

Mercury enters Aquarius today, where it will travel until March 1. Mercury is exalted in Aquarius; expect innovative thinking from yourself and those around you during this time. This transit particularly favors creative use of technology. Writing and speaking to large groups is also beneficial, so look for or create those opportunities.

Thursday

Today Venus enters Pisces, the sign ruled by Neptune. Until March 7 you’ll have unusual access to creativity and inspiration so, as I said in the Monthly Forecast, carry some recording device around with you. A year’s worth of good ideas could come in the next month, starting today.

Friday

Maha Shiva (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Tonight is the annual celebration of Maha Shivaratri, the most auspicious night in the Hindu year. It is said that one repetition of the great Lord’s name on this night is worth one thousand repetitions at any other time. Millions of people chant Shiva’s name all night, accompanied by mystical rituals designed to open the path to the innermost Soul. Whether you celebrate this holy night or not, this vibration will pervade our world.

This year it will be easier than ever to tune in, as Mercury is forming a harmonious aspect to Saturn. Mercury represents our thinking and desire to communicate and when it meets Saturn it becomes concentrated and focused. The mind yearns for solitude during this transit, so you may want to spend time alone. Great things are born from a quiet mind, especially on Maha Shivaratri!

Saturday

On Saturday, we run into some opposition from others. Remember, Mars is still retrograde, so if someone is pushing you to take action, your best response is to calmly listen but continue to wait. Their point may be totally valid, but the timing isn’t right yet.

Later in the day is the New Moon, which will further support non-action. The day of the New Moon is a time to withdraw and rest in order to prepare for the upsurge of energy coming in the next few days.

Sunday

Victorian Valentine's Card (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Sunday is Valentine’s Day and the Sun conjoins Neptune that day. I was thinking about how Valentine’s Day always falls in the month of Aquarius. Aquarius is an air sign so it is concerned with relationships, but it is more about friendships and business associates than intimate partnerships. When I was a child we gave Valentines to all of our friends and this seems more in keeping with the sign of Aquarius.

The Sun/Neptune conjunction, as well as Venus in Pisces, will bring sweetness to the day and a desire to enjoy the arts or to spend the day serving others. Friendship, sweetness, love, art, and service – that’s what I call a good day!

Enjoy the week!

Don’t forget. If you have an astrology-related business question (or a business-related astrology question) send it to me at ellen@astro4business.com. I’ll answer it in these posts, anonymously of course, and we can all learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to it! Have a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

Tags: astrology, business, Mars, Mercury, Moon, Neptune, Pisces, Saturn, Sun, Venus

Your questions – cycles within cycles

Feb 5

Posted by Ellen in Introduction to Astrology for Business, Philosophy, Your Questions | Add Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello everyone.

The following question comes from a reader with a good understanding of astrology. Please don’t get discouraged by the technical terms – her question posts an issue that applies to all of us and allows me the chance to spell out some fundamental astrological principles.

She writes:

How does a personal astrology chart interact with the bigger astrological influences? I’ve wondered this often, and my current situation brings it up again. In my chart I have transiting Jupiter conjunct natal Saturn in my 10th house. My understanding of that, is this is a great time to make things real in the material world – particularly as it relates to my career. And since I own my own business, for my company. Jupiter is within 1 degree of my natal Saturn tomorrow. But, Mars is in retrograde and there will be a void Moon tomorrow afternoon.

I can’t tell you how often this is the case. One part of the astrology says “go”; another part says “no”. Life is like that, isn’t it? It’s a complex undertaking, not often reducible to black or white.

Our World of Cycles

When we are born, we enter a world in the midst of cycles. The moon may be waxing or waning, the sun may be heading into the northern or southern hemisphere, some planets may be retrograding, others are in the signs they rule so are very strong, others may be weakened by aspect, etc, etc, etc. And we step in to all this motion, stamped indelibly by these first impressions, or if you prefer, aligned perfectly with the needs of our soul’s journey.

These cycles don’t stop. Within a few moments after your birth, planetary positions have shifted and the degree on the horizon which indicates your rising sign has changed. The cycles zoom ahead – all of the way to the present moment.

The moon completes a full cycle every month, the Sun every year. Each planet has its cycle, with the outer planets taking so long they don’t complete a full cycle in our lifetime. Some cycles repeat themselves over and over in our lives and some don’t have time to repeat at all.

Now it gets complicated

The position a planet occupied at the moment of your birth is always sensitized in your life. The planet moves on from that point, but that point in the zodiac continues to hold meaning for you. When another planet in its orbit passes that sensitized point or forms a mathematical angle to it, there is an opportunity to work with the issues described by the two planets, the original one and the one passing through. Sometimes this is a purely inner experience, an awakening of some kind. Sometimes the inner experience is reflected in the outer world and we learn more about ourselves in relation to others during the transit.

Now all of this can get very complicated, very quickly. Just think of all your experiences and relationships even in the current point in time, all the roles you play, your interests, your feelings, your yearnings, what has gone before and your hopes for the future. Every single facet of life is reflected in the cycles of astrology, so you can imagine how complex each moment is, astrologically speaking.

One thing is certain: the experiences you came for, you will get. My spiritual teacher once said that we came to this earth with something to learn and something to offer. You will have the opportunity to both learn and offer within the cycles shown in your astrological chart.

In this way, the unfolding of our personal astrology chart is part of and contained within the bigger astrological influences. So if you are having an influence that lasts a few weeks, like the reader’s Jupiter transit of her natal Saturn, but Mars is retrograde at the time, the retrograde Mars is part of the unfolding of the Jupiter/Saturn transit. That Jupiter/Saturn transit was always going to unfold that way, with Mars retrograde. If you’re looking at transits ahead of time, they must always be considered in concert with the other cycles happening at the time.

Keep it simple

Like I said, all of this can get very complex. So I appreciate the advice of my current astrology teachers, Darrelyn Gunzberg and Bernadette Brady. They use the K.I.S.S. principle, which they say means, Keep It Simple, Student. They advise us to pick two or three of the most important cycles unfolding in relation to our birth charts and interpret all of the lesser cycles in terms of these major ones. In other words, if you are experiencing a major Pluto transit now, the theme of transformation through destruction and irrevocable change will be playing itself out in some part of your life. The monthly lunar cycles, or Mars retrograde, or even a Jupiter transit to your natal chart must be interpreted within the meaning of regeneration shown by the Pluto transit. Everything will contribute to and become part of this overarching development.

So, specifically in answer to the reader’s question, if Jupiter is bringing opportunities for expansion of responsibility and structure (Saturn) to her business (10^th house), then retrograde Mars indicates that these opportunities will be found by looking back at ground previously covered, rather than initiating something brand new. In this way, the Mars retrograde becomes a helpful clue to discover the source of the Jupiterian opportunity.

Each moment is auspicious

There is more to be said regarding how to choose which cycles are the overarching themes, and the timing of the unfolding of experiences as they are revealed in the chart, but I think this is enough to digest for now. I’ll just leave you with one other thought, something I have learned from my spiritual studies: each moment is auspicious. Each birth is auspicious because your Soul, the great Soul, has decided to enact a certain play in these cycles of space and time. Your chart is a translation of the infinite light of the truth into everyday life in this world.

Enjoy!

Tags: astrology, business, cycles

Your Jupiter in Pisces Opportunity

Feb 3

Posted by Ellen in Jupiter in Pisces, Long-term Planning, The Planets | 2 Comments

Beham, (Hans) Sebald (1500-1550): Jupiter, from The Seven Planets with the Signs of the Zodiac, 1539

Hello everyone.

I’ve been thinking about Jupiter’s sojourn through Pisces, which it entered on January 18 and will remain most of the year. Jupiter will spend from June 6 to September 8 in Aries, but due to retrograde motion it backtracks into Pisces after September 8 where it will finish the rest of the year.

Jupiter spends about one year in each sign; every twelve years it returns to its home point, the Jupiter return. Less famous than the Saturn return, because it feels a lot better, the Jupiter return generally renews faith and optimism and brings opportunities for expansion.

This year Jupiter spends most of its time in Pisces, which it used to rule before Neptune was discovered in the 19^th Century. Some astrologers still consider Jupiter to be the ruler of Pisces as it has such an affinity with the sign. So let’s visit Jupiter in Pisces and see what possibilities for expansion we can find.

Jupiter

As the largest planet in the solar system, Jupiter is clearly visible and bright in the night sky, a large shining diamond. Jupiter represents expansion, any activity aimed at extending or improving the mind, body, philosophy, or sphere of influence. Jupiter represents our aspiration for wisdom and for a philosophy and moral code to live by.

In the chart of a businessperson, Jupiter indicates the area of life where confidence and optimism brings luck and opportunities. It shows the person’s judgment and discrimination, or lack thereof, and how practical they are in decision-making. Jupiter indicates inspiration and the tendency toward expansion into new territories, and can indicate whether international business opportunities are a focus.

In a business chart, Jupiter describes the moral standards of the company and its advisors or board of directors. It describes legal and international affairs. It shows the company’s approach to goal-setting and strategic planning, and whether learning and experimentation are encouraged in the culture. The general expectation for financial success can be seen from the placement of Jupiter.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres

Some vocations associated with Jupiter include publishing, law, and philosophy. Jupiter also is associated with all forms of higher education, both as professor and student. The ministry falls under the rulership of Jupiter, as well as vocations associated with international travel.

Pisces

Pisces is a water sign, concerned with emotional connection. The glyph for Pisces is two fish swimming in opposite directions but tied together, signifying the dual worlds we all inhabit: our interior reality and our external experience.

Pisces is the stage of development when we have become completely immersed in and identified with others. Our individual spark of ego has become swallowed by the collective whole. In the life cycle of a business, this is a key transition phase when the business either declines or finds a way to begin a new cycle of innovation. The business may retreat from the public eye to retrench, restructure, or terminate.

Pisces is constantly trying to unify; to merge the inner with the outer world. Pisces oversees mysticism and art, as well as humanitarian pursuits. Retreat experiences, such as a cruise or spiritual retreat, are favored by Pisces as well as hospitals, prisons, and other institutions in which individuals withdraw from daily life.

Jupiter in Pisces

Sometimes the wisdom of Pisces can be a little hard to access – its language is not the language of the exterior world but of images, synchronicities, and sensations. But Jupiter is a great conduit for the wisdom of Pisces, as it translates the abstract whisperings into societal codes and philosophies. Jupiter provides access to deep wells of wisdom inside each of us and encompassed by all of us.

Where should you look for business opportunity when Jupiter is in Pisces? A general, and partial, list includes:

Artistic or spiritual endeavors
Collectives and cooperatives
Forging connections between people and opportunities
“Crowd-sourcing”
Providing opportunities for artistic expression among employees
Collaboration, sharing, coordination, and cooperation
Emotional connectivity across borders
Publishing opportunities in the fields of art, yoga, mysticism, and collective efforts such as twelve-step programs and other grass-roots movements
The health care industry, the military, or other large institutions
Development and sales of liquids of all kinds, including perfumes, oils, and cosmetics

Jupiter in Pisces for you

In this section I’ll outline where you should look for business opportunities, depending on where Jupiter is transiting in your natal or business chart. Wherever the sign of Pisces is in your natal chart will be an area of expansion and opportunity for you this year. You’ll need to have a copy of your chart to see which house Jupiter will be transiting this year. See the sidebar if you’d like me to send you your chart with the current transits.

1^st house – with Jupiter passing through your first house, people will feel and resonate with your sensitivity and generosity. You will exude confidence and optimism and people will be drawn to your energy. Overcome your tendency to retreat and the opportunities will come.

2^nd house – with Jupiter passing through your second house, you will intuitively know how to build your material fortune. If you use discrimination, you will make the wise gamble and it will pay handsomely.

3^rd house – your opportunities come through the field of education, especially in art, design, or fashion. Find a way to pass on your knowledge or learn something new yourself. Learning and teaching, as well as writing and/or publishing, brings business expansion now.

4^th house – your intuition is heightened about real estate or house wares, so if that’s a fit for you, go for it. Just promise me you’ll read the fine print before you sign.

5^th house – the arts, creativity or businesses focused on children are important for you to invest in now. Take a gamble and try something risky. You’ll have the charisma to carry it off.

6^th house – your day-to-day life holds opportunities for you, especially if you find ways to serve others. If you have the opportunity to mentor or advise others, go for it.

7^th house – partnerships! Get together and collaborate with someone else and your business will boom. Don’t be naïve though. Check references and background thoroughly and get all of your agreements in black and white.

8^thhouse – this is a good time to attract other people’s money or resources into your business. People trust you will handle their finances with sensitivity and discretion. Invest wisely, and make sure all expectations are clearly stated and agreed to beforehand.

9^th house– opportunities to do business overseas promise success. Spread yourself over multiple projects and also look to contracts with learning institutions. Extend yourself into publishing if that’s a fit for you.

10^th house– The sky’s the limit for you as long as you stay sensitive to the currents around you. This time should be brimming with opportunities for success – if you grab them. Get out in public with perceptive confidence and crowds will beat a path to your door.

11^th house– your opportunities lie in groups, societies, and associations. Either find a way to collaborate with large numbers of people on creative projects, or advertise your products or services through a social network.

12^th house– You may be inclined to retreat for a while and this is fine. It’s time for some inner work and redefining of your goals. But if you do seek opportunity, large institutions like the government or healthcare systems are perfect avenues for sharing your wisdom.

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Pisces

Astro4Business Month Ahead – February 2010

Feb 1

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Month Ahead | Add Comments

Hello, everyone.

Let’s look at February 2010 to see what the planetary influences are and how we can work with them. We’ll start with the most long-range and overarching influences, the planets Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus, which you will notice do not change from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. Last we’ll look at the personal planets, Mars, Venus, Mercury, and the Sun which stay in their respective signs for much shorter periods and primarily influence our day-to-day lives.

Pluto in Capricorn

We’ve spoken at length about Pluto in Capricorn (see category at right), where it will remain until 2024. In a nutshell, this long transit will bring fundamental change to many of the structures we have come to rely upon: government, religion, the economy, industry, and transport systems, to name a few. The transit carries the energy of revolution and evolution and can be dramatic and at times overwhelming. Pluto exposes what is hidden, for better or for worse and usually now, at the beginning of the cycle, we become more aware of the worse rather than the better.

Pluto hastens and intensifies the processes of endings and new beginnings, and in Capricorn will bring about the ending of our business pursuits that are no longer suited to our growth and personal evolution. Whatever has been slowly leaking vitality will go ahead and die, including old business models, practices, and products. This is formidable energy, and your best strategy is to tune in and work with it. Find an area in your business life in need of renewal and begin the process before Pluto touches your chart and forces the issue.

Neptune in Aquarius

With Neptune in Aquarius (see category at right) from 1998 to 2011, we’ve been experiencing a global consensus regarding the equality of the common man, shared responsibility to the group, ascendancy of people and nations based on the power of knowledge, the right of all nations to progress technologically, and the right of each person to contribute to and further the base of common knowledge.

The best way to work with this energy is to allow your rational mind to open to waves of inspiration from the collective whole, from your community to the global community. Expect to be inspired by your neighbors and friends.

Uranus in Pisces

The Uranus in Pisces (see category at right) transit from 2003 – May, 2010 has brought innovation and invention to business. It flattened hierarchies and enhanced global transactions and interactions. With many variables in play simultaneously, we’ve worked with moving parts which connected and disconnected frequently, including projects, alliances, and workforces.

How can we continue to work with Uranus in Pisces? Product diversification, committee leadership, and collaboration, as well as global connection, and dissolution of hierarchical structures – any one of these is good for the end of the cycle.

Saturn in Libra

Saturn is in the sign of Libra, where it is exalted. When a planet is exalted in a sign, it has a special affinity to the sign and if you’re willing to do the work, there is a promised payoff. See the category to the right on this important transit, but in a nutshell: what is the work of Saturn in Libra? To develop patience, persistence, responsibility, and humility in relationships. What is the payoff? Cooperation and mutual support.

Until October 2010, Saturn is in square aspect to Pluto in Capricorn (see above). The stress of this square aspect will bring the end to structures that are no longer working in our businesses (and in our world) as the Saturn energy attempts to install the Libra values of equity, parity, diplomacy, collaboration, and cooperation.

Saturn made its station and turned retrograde on January 14. Retrograde motion in the five outer planets is not felt as immediately as in the inner planets. You may notice outside regulators backtracking or bureaucratic snafus that affect your business. Or one of your trusted advisors may resign. Remember those business plans you wrote last quarter? Just proceed according to plan, and course correct if necessary.

Jupiter in Pisces

Jupiter entered Pisces, a water sign, in January. Pisces is concerned with the emotional connections that bind people together. This often expresses itself as devotion to an ideal, often mystical or artistic, and the desire to lose oneself in the shared feeling of the group.

Jupiter, the planet of opportunity and expansion, is the ancient ruler of Pisces. This brings a very positive influence to all endeavors that attempt to unite people based on a shared intention for the future. How should you work with this energy? Work on connection. Set up links between people and organizations. Make venues available for your employees to express their ideas creatively. Be willing to lead with your intuition and feelings; show your employees, customers, and business associates your heart. These activities will bring good fortune.

Mars in Leo

When Mars is in Leo our assertion of will power becomes focused and controlled. Mars in Leo (see category at right) loves to lead and gives faithfully and generously to those who follow. When Mars is in Leo our tendency is to be honest, direct, and fully dependable. The sign Leo is also creative and artistic, so at this time we may love performance and display.

The best use of these next eight months? Make your light shine with dignity and strength. Lead with steadiness and authority. Throw yourself into creative activities. Secure and enjoy the limelight.

Mars is in retrograde motion until March 9. You may feel like you are retracing all the steps of progress you made since mid-October. Use this time to review your goals and rework your creative projects.

Venus in Aquarius/Pisces

Venus is in Aquarius until February 11. Use these last days well by improving your professional relationships through joining associations or contributing with others to a just cause. Group endeavors enhance our creativity when Venus is in Aquarius.

On February 11 Venus enters Pisces, where she is exalted. Your best creative ideas of the year are likely during this transit which lasts until March 7. Be sure to carry a recording device with you at all times because, while truly inspired, Venus’ gifts are subtle and can be elusive when she’s in Pisces. Time spent on marketing and public relations will pay off during this transit and you can expect your employees to be imaginative and happy.

Mercury in Capricorn/Aquarius

Mercury finishes its extra-long transit through Capricorn on February 10. Finish your planning and strategy for the year and be sure your merchandise and inventory control systems are functioning well.

Mercury is exalted in Aquarius; expect innovative thinking from yourself and those around you. Your mind is steady, resourceful and intuitive during this transit and it particularly favors creative use of technology. Writing and speaking to large groups is beneficial, so if the opportunity arises, make the most of it.

Sun in Aquarius/Pisces

The Sun is in Aquarius until February 18, which favors endeavors involving groups and teams. The Sun in Pisces marks a transitional time of year, a time of completion and preparation for the new start indicated at the end of Pisces, the time of the Equinox. Use the heightened intuition of the Pisces Sun to sense how your direction will adjust to the coming season.

Phases of the Moon

The new Moon is on February 13, waxing to full on the last day of the month.

Monthly Recap

Against the backdrop of massive global changes to the structures in our lives, we are inspired by and engaged with the global community as never before. With Saturn in Libra, we find our footing in committed, responsible relationships, and Jupiter enhances our emotional connection to one another. Saturn, Venus, and Mercury are all exalted by mid-month, and Jupiter is extra happy in Pisces: hard work pays handsome dividends this month. But Mars is still retrograde; hold back on any start-ups if you can.

Let me know how your month plays out!

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Moon, Neptune, Pluto, Saturn, Sun, Uranus, Venus

Astro4Business Week – February 4

Jan 31

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Week | 4 Comments

Phases of the Moon, as seen from the Northern Hemisphere. The Southern hemisphere will see a mirror image of this phase. (Source:Wikipedia)

Hello everyone.

Good news – this week the planetary influences are supportive and benign. Nature has been so nurturing lately: each really intense week has been followed by a quiet one, giving time to regain our footing and assimilate what we learned.

The second contact of the Saturn/Pluto square occurred yesterday, on Sunday, January 31, and this square was so powerful that its effects will linger. But this week we’ll have the assistance we need to resolve difficult situations. (For more insight on the Saturn/Pluto square, see the category to the right.)

Saturday, February 6

There are only two major planetary influences this week and they both occur on Saturday. Look for their energy to start to build on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Mercury in Capricorn will form a sextile aspect to Uranus in Pisces. The sextile aspect is very supportive and often brings someone into our lives with good news or a new insight that makes a difference. With Mercury in Capricorn we’re still in a planning and strategy phase and with the sextile to Uranus concrete breakthroughs will come from collaborative work, committees, and teams.

Later in the day Jupiter in Pisces sextiles Pluto in Capricorn. Last week’s Saturn/Pluto square may have exposed an extremely challenging difficulty or a startling power struggle, and this week Jupiter will blunt the sharp edges. Jupiter represents insight and wisdom; when in Pisces people are inclined to rally around a shared intention that benefits everyone. Connection is the key; connect as broadly as you can and you will recognize the best way to move forward.

Have a wonderful week, and let me know how it goes!

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Mercury, Pluto, Saturn, Uranus

Science or Astrology?

Jan 27

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Basics, Philosophy, The Planets | Add Comments

Hello, everyone.

I was speaking with a client the other day who had called about a business/astrology question. After a fruitful conversation she said, “I almost didn’t call you. I didn’t want the astrology to influence my thinking.”

It sounds odd, doesn’t it, to call an astrologer about a situation but not want the astrology to influence your decision? Still, I understood what she meant. It was a classic free will versus destiny dilemma, or free will versus nature.

I am the master of my destiny

This particular client has a very prominent Uranus in her chart, which represents a rational, even scientific way of looking at things. She wants to believe she is the master of her destiny.

The planet Uranus was first sighted during the 17^th century, the same time that the scientific method was being developed into its modern form by Descartes and Galileo. Science, as it has come to be practiced today, is based on hypotheses, repeatable experiments, and resultant theories. What passes these tests is deemed real; what does not pass, is not real.

This scientific method has resulted in immeasurable changes to the way we live, and to the earth we inhabit. It has ushered in marvelous advances in human society as well, as the old superstitions which could not be proven have died, like the superiority of man versus woman or one race over another.

In the darkness of night, wanderers

Astrology is the ancient study of the cycles of nature. Many people who don’t believe in astrology have not imagined what life must have been like before the introduction of electricity. We are well aware of the cycles of the Sun which cause the seasons, and some of us are aware of the cycles of the Moon because they influence the tides. But before electricity, the night was darker and if you ventured outside, you noticed these bright objects that wandered across the sky. At times they would disappear entirely from your night sky; at other times they would seem to join other objects or be swallowed by the Sun completely.

In an age of less entertainment, these objects and their travels occupied a much bigger place in our psyches. With the discovery in the last 300 years of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, and the advances that have led to the industrial age and now to our information age many of us are less and less aware of the cycles of nature, including the cycles of the planets.

The study of astrology is to take a stand and say, the cycles of nature are still influencing our lives. And further to say, if I understand these cycles I can live my life in tune with them. When it’s time to sow, I will know it. When it’s time to reap, I will know it. But desire is possibly the most powerful force in the universe and yes, it is free to use as we want. We don’t have to plant in spring anymore; with greenhouses, heaters, grow lights, fertilizer, and automated watering systems we can plant a crop whenever we want.

To plant with ease, plant within season

What astrology says is, to plant with ease, plant within season. The planets don’t compel. As they move through space they mark times of increase and times of decrease. They plainly show the natural cycles of activity and rest. And these cycles stamp us at the moment of our birth, some cycles waxing, some cycles waning. But whether we follow these rhythms is entirely up to us.

There are advantages and disadvantages to each belief system. If you follow the cycles, you have to admit that we have retained our instinctual selves and our activities are a product of natural cycles, just like everything else on earth. If you ignore these cycles, this ignorance sets you free to attempt to master your destiny, based on your personal will and desires, and to ignore your connection to and impact on all other things.

And there seems to be room for all of us, at least so far. A more Neptune-ruled person will tend to feel connected to the cycles of life. A more Uranus-ruled person will tend to feel more independent and in control of life. And some people are an interesting mix of the two, which makes them call an astrologer, but not want to be influenced by what they hear.

Which one are you? Weigh in by leaving a comment above.

Don’t forget. If you have an astrology-related business question (or a business-related astrology question) send it to me at ellen@astro4business.com. I’ll answer it in these posts, anonymously of course, and we can all learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to it! Got a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

Tags: astrology, Neptune, Uranus

Your Questions – Big Client Meeting Coming Up

Jan 25

Posted by Ellen in Introduction to Astrology for Business, Your Questions | Add Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello, everyone.

A regular reader sent this question:

I have an interview/meeting for a new big and exciting project on Wednesday, it should go well…I think. Anything I should do or avoid?

As I wrote in the weekly forecast, this is a week of oppositions topped off by the second contact of the Saturn/Pluto square. Although oppositions often bring us face to face with others, they can feel like push/pull, or advance/retreat, especially since this one involves the Mars retrograde influence which has been with us since mid-December and will continue until early March.

The advice in the weekly forecast applies to this question. I’m not surprised there is an important meeting on Wednesday. Venus represents meetings and alliances, and I agree with the reader, “it should go well,” if you are able to maintain your balance that day. You may have a sparkling presentation that may wow your prospective client, but with Mars retrograde they may not be ready to act.

As we’ve been working together and I have access to your natal chart, I thought I’d take a look to see what more may be revealed about this. When I saw your chart, it was one of those times when astrology just astounds me with its ability to forecast timing and to reveal other aspects of a situation.

The clue to success

Your natal Mars is in Taurus, forming an exact square to this week’s Venus/Mars opposition, Sun/Mars opposition, and the Full Moon. Your natal position of Mars is the clue to success with this meeting. Mars in Taurus is steady and patient; once motivated it is willing to work long and hard to amass material security. With Mars in Taurus you understand that actual physical resources are vitally important and this knowledge extends not only to your personal affairs but to your client’s business too.

Make sure the client understands this about you: that you are committed to their material success and that you are there for the long term. And remember to make your client’s resources the focus of the meeting, not your own. It’s not so much a matter of what you can provide, although this should be clear and well presented. The focus should be on your client’s assets and how you can help them exploit these assets to insure their own success.

In other words the meeting should be all about them.

Patience

And then if you sense hesitation on their part, don’t take it personally. My sense is they are making a second attempt at securing the services they need (Mars retrograde) and may have run into difficulties in their last attempt. They may be slower to act this time no matter how prepared you are. So don’t expect a commitment from them right away. It may take more time than usual for them to come to a decision or gain the approvals they need. Patience is one of the qualities of your natal Mars in Taurus, so rely on that patience. This is an exciting meeting and I’m confident it will go well. Let us all know how it turns out!

Don’t forget. If you have an astrology-related business question (or a business-related astrology question) send it to me at ellen@astro4business.com. I’ll answer it in these posts, anonymously of course, and we can all learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to it! Got a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

Tags: astrology, business, Mars, Taurus

Astro4Business Week – January 25

Jan 24

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Week, Introduction to Astrology for Business | 3 Comments

Phases of the Moon, as seen from the Northern Hemisphere. The Southern hemisphere will see a mirror image of this phase. (Source:Wikipedia)

Hello, everyone.

This is a week to strive for balance, with three oppositions leading up to a major square between Saturn and Pluto. This is a recipe for tension as our tendency will be to blame others if things don’t go as we wish, and their tendency will be to blame us. For additional guidance, review the posts in the Saturn/Pluto Square category to the right. Here is the day by day forecast, but these influences are so strong you may feel them all week.

Wednesday

On Wednesday Venus in Aquarius opposes Mars in Leo. Venus in Aquarius wants to play the social card, with meetings leading to unconventional alliances, leading to profits. But Mars is retrograde, so one of your lieutenants won’t hold up their end, or you may just not have the energy to shine. The best advice is to take it in small bites: appease Venus and go out and meet people, but be sure to leave time to retreat and examine what’s going on behind the scenes.

Friday

On Friday it’s more of the same with the Sun in Aquarius opposing Mars in Leo. The Sun represents you as the leader and/or owner of your business, the one setting direction and empowering your team to act. You may have a dozen good ideas, but if your team is lagging behind, productivity will lag too. Again the key is balance and small bites: set very realistic, small goals that your team can accomplish one at a time.

And remember, if you’re a one-person team, these oppositions can manifest as two sides of yourself pulling in different directions, with the Mars side pulling you toward rest and retreat. Give a little to both to make the most of your week.

Saturday

Early Saturday morning is the Full Moon, with the Moon in the fixed sign Leo opposing the Sun in the fixed sign Aquarius. You may want to act but feel stuck, and others around you may seem stubborn and intractable. Not an easy time. Refresh yourself with some recreation today and allow yourself to blow off some steam.

Sunday

Sunday brings us to the second contact of the Saturn/Pluto square, the dominant aspect of this year. In this contact Saturn is retrograde, returning again to challenge whatever inequity it finds in Pluto in Capricorn. Don’t be surprised if a trusted advisor seems to turn against you, accusing you of insensitivity or of dominating others. If so, try to stay open to hear others’ complaints and make a serious effort to change. You’ll gain from it in the end.

Let me know how this dynamic week goes for you.

Don’t forget. If you have an astrology-related business question (or a business-related astrology question) send it to me at ellen@astro4business.com. I’ll answer it in these posts, anonymously of course, and we can all learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to it! Got a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

Tags: astrology, business, Mars, Pluto, Saturn, Sun, Venus

Your questions – client presentations with retrograde Mars

Jan 22

Posted by Ellen in Retrograde Motion, The Planets, Your Questions | Add Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello, everyone.

This is a question from a reader in Texas. Concerning the current Mars retrograde period until March 10, she asks:

I have several clients where we are presenting our 2010 plans. They are existing clients and in one way it is a continuation of what we’ve been doing, but it is also a new year and new plans. Any suggestions on how to handle?

Her question stems from our advice in a couple of recent posts that during a Mars retrograde period it is best not to commence anything new. Mars rules beginnings of activities and projects, and when it is in retrograde motion, its energy is diminished and not actively supporting new endeavors. Mars also rules new ideas, productivity, and will power. It’s hard to move forward when these are missing.

When Mars is retrograde our drive is backtracking, stepping into the shadows. We continue to stay alert but our will to move forward is arrested. Our inclination is to silently watch as matters unfold, without our reaction or participation.

Of course, there is no standing still. As I said in a recent post, the other planets continue to move forward; life goes on! And in business you have to strike while the iron’s hot, or even lukewarm. Especially now, it is important to offer existing clients the consistent service they have come to expect.

In light of this, I have several suggestions:

Especially with existing clients, revisit projects or campaigns you conducted from October 15 to December 20, when Mars was covering this ground the first time. See if there is something to finish, something you were perhaps too busy to complete last fall. Mine that period for ideas to bring into this year.
Know what you’re bringing to the table and what you’re not. There are other planets, energies, available. Just because Mars is retrograde doesn’t mean your other faculties aren’t working. Venus, for example, is very useful in client presentations. In Aquarius, she brings sociability, innovation, and inclusion. Perhaps an innovative setting or unique use of technology can support your work. Jupiter in Pisces makes us all more open to images, music, color, and sensation. Perhaps working in highly creative or artistic content will fuel your imagination and gain the client’s appreciation.
Take the support of the Moon. The Moon in Aries and the other Fire signs can help mitigate the missing spark. Upcoming Fire sign Moons are January 29-31, February 7-9, February 17-19, February 26-27, March 6-8.
Pitch projects with shorter timelines and wait until Mars turns direct to begin longer-term projects.
Put a lot of space into your timelines. Projects may take longer than you expect until Mars resumes direct motion.
Remember that the clients, too, are experiencing the retrograde motion. Expect delays in decision-making and approvals.

Do any readers have additional suggestions? Please post them in the comments section.

Don’t forget. If you have an astrology-related business question (or a business-related astrology question) send it to me at ellen@astro4business.com. I’ll answer it in these posts, anonymously of course, and we can all learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to it! Got a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Mars, Moon, Retrograde, Venus

Your questions – should I let this employee go?

Jan 21

Posted by Ellen in Retrograde Motion, The Planets, Your Questions | 1 Comment

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello, everyone.

I’m so excited! I let you all know in this blog that I’d love to receive your questions to answer in these posts, and the questions are coming in! Fantastic! I think this can be an excellent forum for all of us interested in the astrology of business.

In my commitment to answer your questions anonymously, I will paraphrase this inquiry. It is from a business owner about an employee, and who knows, maybe the employee is a reader too.

The question is regarding Mars retrograde, and whether this is a good time to end or re-arrange the employment of a key person in her business. She wonders whether she should address these issues now, expecting that when she does, the employee will either leave or there will be a major change in her role. She says, “Either way, it will change, marking a new beginning in its own way.”

Thorny Cycles

I really like this question because it points out a thorny issue with cycles: every ending is the first day of something new. It’s like the commencement ceremonies at the end of high school. Commencement means beginning, but it certainly felt like an ending, didn’t it? Now we know, it was both.

Let’s take another look at the quote from Karen Hamaker-Zondag that we noted in our last post:

If we wish to undertake a really important activity, then a retrograde Mars should be seen as an unmistakable warning of difficulties, certainly when the chart is for the commencement itself. What retrograde Mars is saying is, “Finish what you are already doing, and begin nothing new until I turn direct.”

As this quote makes clear, if we are commencing an activity, then it’s best to wait. If we are finishing something we have been doing, then a retrograde Mars is the right timing. In this case, our questioner will have to decide whether she has been having ongoing discussions about the issue with this person and this meeting is simply finishing what has been started. Or is it a new conversation?

Did I miss something?

But let’s look a little deeper. We’ve discussed how retrograde motion is like a hiker who covers a certain portion of the trail, then turns around and retraces her steps, then reaches a certain point and heads forward again. We said possibly she missed something, that she had to backtrack to discover something about the situation she didn’t take proper note of the first time.

In my post, Fours Ways to Benefit from Mars retrograde, I noted,

In the chart of a business, Mars represents operations, productivity, and the skills of the second tier of leadership. These may falter over the next couple of months. The line managers and supervisors you’ve come to rely upon may experience a setback and productivity may fall. This is in the natural order and serves the same purpose as above: are you on the right track with your staff? Are your expectations for productivity reasonable? Are people working on the right projects, tackling the important assignments?

Mars indicates the second tier in a business. Since this question concerns her second-in-command, I’d like to see her let the Mars retrograde period complete before she takes this step. She’s retracing her steps now, and so is her employee. There might be something more that needs to come to light.

All in all, I’d suggest that she wait if she can. As she astutely pointed out, letting someone go or revamping their job description is a new beginning, for her, for her business, and for the employee. So I’d say to give it more time, to let the retrograde motion do its work to reveal all the facets of the situation. When Mars turns direct, she can take the action she needs to take, with the confidence that all of the factors are clear.

Don’t forget. If you have an astrology-related business question (or a business-related astrology question) send it to me at ellen@astro4business.com. I’ll answer it in these posts, anonymously of course, and we can all learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to it! Got a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

Tags: astrology, business, Mars, Retrograde

About Ellen Longo

Ellen Longo

Welcome, everyone: old friends, clients, new friends, those of you I’ve met, those I’ll meet through these pages. Welcome to a long-term, mutually beneficial conversation about the wisdom of astrology as it pertains to the success and profitability of your business.

Whether you are in the start-up phase, are currently running a successful business, or planning a change, alignment with the natural cycles of the planets can inform your path.--> More
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