Posts Tagged Mars

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Alliance Adjustment

Jul 10

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 109 Comments

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

Hello, everyone.

This week is not as heavy as the last couple weeks, although it has enough sparks to keep us on our toes. We have a Full Moon and just two other major aspects, but one of them is MAJOR.

Full Moon in Capricorn

This week we go up and over the top with the Full Moon early Friday morning (MDT). Spend the first few days of the week adjusting and refining your current projects through input from others: cast a wide net and let people’s opinions inform your final touches. Then you’ll be fully ready to display the best of your work. With the Full Moon in Capricorn, bring your project home with a proficient presentation. Display your mastery and let others know you’re serious about the outcome. Systems, structure, and your own sense of authority will impress people this week.

Mercury sextile Mars

Two other aspects highlight the week. On Monday, Mercury in Leo sextiles Mars in Gemini. The Mercury in us is always thinking, communicating, analyzing, and problem solving. The Mars energy is always asserting, initiating, and competing. When these two get together, and when they get along as they do with the sextile aspect, it spells rapid progress. Ideas will start to take on a life of their own, and if they do, you should go with it. You’ll be able to synthesize data from different sources and know just how to put the information to good use.

A comment on Mercury in Leo: If your sales team gets a little flamboyant, let them. Just remind them that the customer is the star.

Venus square Saturn

The other important aspect this week is Venus in Cancer squaring Saturn in Libra. Usually squares can be quite challenging; they depict energy moving in two different directions, producing conflicts or “horns of dilemmas.” The Encarta Dictionary defines a dilemma in this way: a situation in which somebody must choose one of two or more unsatisfactory alternatives. That’s a pretty good description of the square aspect. In this case, there is the possibility of ultimate resolution as Saturn is in the sign ruled by Venus. With some hard work, there could be a compromise.

Actually, we’ve been dancing to this music for the last year. Venus last conjoined Saturn in Libra last August, and throughout the year we’ve been meeting challenge after challenge and opportunity after opportunity to find the point of harmony between these two. Venus represents the part of us that wants to secure material stability and establish harmonious relationships, cooperation, and collaboration. Saturn wants to achieve, succeed, control, and master. With Saturn in Libra, we strive for success through alliances, mediation, diplomacy, and public relations. All year we’ve been perfecting the art of collaboration and partnership.

This week could bring our interpersonal and professional relationships to some kind of crisis point. There could be an ideological parting of the ways. You may have to let something go. If so, try to do it diplomatically and kindly, and bring as much nurturing and protection that you can into the matter. That could ease an otherwise difficult transition. But keep in mind the prospect for harmony; with a possibly painful concession, you could still find reconciliation.

That’s all for the week. Have a good one.

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Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – July 2011

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Full Moon, Mars, Mercury, Saturn, Venus

Astro4Business Month Ahead – July 2011

Jul 2

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 81 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for July, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we 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 travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
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.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our daily activities.

Pluto in Capricorn

We’ve spoken at length about Pluto in Capricorn, where it will remain until 2024. In a nutshell, this long transit will bring upheaval and transformation to the structures of our world: government, organized religion, the economy, industry, and the military, to name a few. This transit carries the energy of revolution and evolution and can be dramatic and at times overwhelming. Pluto exposes what is hidden, leaving no stone unturned.

Pluto hastens and intensifies the processes of endings and new beginnings, and while Pluto is in Capricorn we will systematically bring about the end of business pursuits that are no longer suited to our growth and personal evolution. Whatever has been slowly leaking vitality will depart, including old business models, practices, and products.

Pluto has been in retrograde motion since April. If you’ve been working with an old problem you thought you had resolved, excavate any lingering issues and put them finally to rest.

To read more about Pluto in Capricorn and its impact on your chart this year, see Pluto’s Journey through 2011.

Neptune in Pisces

Neptune begins and ends the month at home in Pisces. Neptune in Pisces begins a shift from the intellectual associations and words-based networking that were common for the last thirteen years when Neptune was in Aquarius, to connections based on feelings and shared beliefs.

Neptune turned retrograde on June 3, it annual retreat back through the heavens until next November. When the distant planet Neptune turns retrograde, we are likely to see its effects in society. Retrograde motion is a time of revisiting what has happened in the past, this time back to February 2011. Look for reversals or reexaminations of decisions regarding health care, oil drilling (Neptune rules oil and liquids of all kinds), the creative arts, drugs legislation, and shipping, to name a few areas. If your business is involved in any of these industries, be prepared for lack of clarity until November.

To read more about Neptune in Pisces and its impact on your chart this year, see Neptune Swimming through 2011.

Uranus in Aries

Uranus left the sign Pisces and entered Aries in March beginning a new 84-year cycle of scientific and political innovation. Uranus embodies the principle of change, especially the kind of transitions that occur because of sudden breakthroughs and technological inventions. Society is constantly moving forward and when the time comes when the traditional is just too safe and stale, the energy of Uranus bursts through the barriers and ushers in the new.

What does this mean for us in business? We will probably feel compelled to take risks we would not even have considered in the past. We may feel confined by the people around us or the structures we’ve implemented. We may seek opportunities to bring scientific or technical discoveries into our products and services. We may approach everyday challenges as battles to be fought and won. We want out of our shell, even if we created it.

On July 9, Uranus enters its annual period of retrograde motion, which will last until December. With Uranus retrograde, there could be a disruption of the innovative energy of the last few months. You may begin to feel ambivalent or dissatisfied with your new ideas and initiatives.

This feeling of dissatisfaction is common in the first few weeks of a retrograde cycle. This is not to say that you should abandon your new projects. The retrograde part of the cycle is the perfect time to develop and test ideas and reevaluate your tactics and approach. Use this time to discern which of your ideas have lasting value and which have limited potential. Ideally, you will see yourself as an explorer in unknown territory, as Erin Sullivan says in her excellent book, Retrograde Planets. This is the time to test your new strategy before you invest too heavily.

To read more about Uranus in Aries and its impact on your chart this year, see Uranus Flashes through 2011.

Saturn in Libra

Saturn in Libra is the antithesis of Uranus in Aries. It counsels patience, persistence, responsibility, and humility in relationships, which leads to cooperation and mutual support. This planet of structure and discipline provides much-needed grounding and circumspection to hot and erratic Uranus in Aries.

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance, bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn resumed direct motion on June 12. Don’t be surprised if you have the sense you’re repeating the past in your business or career; until the end of September, Saturn will be covering the same degrees for the third time. Remember, the third time’s the charm!

Jupiter in Taurus

On June 4, Jupiter entered the earthy sign Taurus. Jupiter, the planet of expansion, in Taurus, the sign of physical, tangible objects, spells material abundance. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Taurus represents the natural fecundity of the earth: trees beginning to fruit, cows full with milk, greening pastures. In nature, Taurus is the time when the initial spark of spring settles into solid growth.

With Jupiter in Taurus, it’s time for us to turn our attention to practical matters. We can codify our expansion plans and build systems that will insure lasting success. It’s a time for slow, steady growth and long-term investment. Think, “Built to Last.”

Mars in Gemini

When Mars moved into Gemini on June 20, we may have started spinning our wheels. Perhaps we have too many projects vying for our attention, or too many interests pulling us in different directions. The best use of this energy? Learning and teaching, intellectual exploring, gathering new information, and training. This energy is also excellent for creating new distribution channels for goods and services, both transportation-based and the virtual kind.

Venus in Gemini/Cancer/Leo

We start the month with Venus in Gemini, but on the 3^rd she transitions into Cancer. When Venus is in Gemini, we are extroverted, chatty, and love nothing more than to sprinkle our attention across many projects and many people. With Venus in Cancer we relate more empathically, expressing more nurturing and understanding. Relationships with customers, partners, and employees may feel more maternal than professional yet fortune lies in our ability to treat people like our own family at this time. This is a great time for company barbeques and celebrations.

On June 28, Venus moves into Leo. This begins a few weeks of fun. Venus indicates what makes people happy, creative, and productive and Leo loves showmanship, competition, games, and sports. To build camaraderie, try a company softball game or online video tournament. Company culture is a key component of success. Venus in Leo is a great time to build a collaborative culture through fun and games, showcasing individual talent.

Mercury in Cancer/Leo/Virgo

Mercury begins the month in Cancer but moves into Leo on the 2^nd. When Mercury enters Leo, conversations and communications become showy and dramatic. Sales presentations should include a bit of flash and a bit of fun. Just warn your sales team not to come off as cocky or overconfident, which is sure to turn people off. Make sure your customer remains the center of attention at this time.

Mercury in Virgo at the end of the month is great for writing, documentation, and detailed project plans. Also great for getting that bookkeeping caught up!

Sun in Cancer/Leo

While the Sun is in Cancer until the 22^nd, make extra time for your employees and customers. Make sure you understand what they need and nurture these relationships sensitively.

When the Sun moves into Leo, step into the limelight. As the leader of your team, this is the time of year par excellence to set direction and reinforce your authority. You may become hypersensitive to issues of loyalty, recognizing who is really on your team, and who is just passing through. Of course, loyalty is a two way street, usually only given when it is received in kind.

Phases of the Moon

There was a New Moon/Partial Solar Eclipse in Cancer on July 1(MDT), waxing to Full in Capricorn on July 15. There is another New Moon on July 30 in Leo. Look for a new start early in the month in whichever house in your chart contains 9 degrees Cancer, then again at the end of the month in whichever house contains 7 degrees Leo. (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

There is some tension building in the skies this month, as Uranus in Aries comes within two degrees of a square to Pluto in Capricorn. Jupiter arbitrates the dispute until the 19^th, linking Uranus and Pluto together with wise counsel and benevolence. But after the 19^th, all the gloves are off and we may sidle up to a conflict between big systems and the desire for independence. I say “sidle up” because this aspect does not become exact until next summer when we can expect a real revolution. This summer we’ll feel the stirrings of future change.

Here’s a treat:

Are you in astrological overwhelm? Check out this link on my other blog for 5 simple ways to get your feet wet in astrology without drowning. Astrology is so Vast; Where Do I Start?

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

July 1 New Moon; Partial Solar Eclipse

July 2 Mercury enters Leo

July 3 Venus enters Cancer

July 9 Uranus assumes retrograde motion

July 15 Full Moon in Capricorn

July 22 Sun enters Leo

July 28 Mercury enters Virgo; Venus enters Leo

July 30 New Moon in Leo

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For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

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

Astro4Business Month Ahead – June 2011

May 31

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 50 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for June, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we 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 travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
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.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our daily activities.

Pluto in Capricorn

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 depart, including old business models, practices, and products.

Pluto is still in retrograde motion. If you’ve been working with an old problem you thought you had resolved, excavate any lingering issues and put them finally to rest.

To read more about Pluto in Capricorn and its impact on your chart this year, see Pluto’s Journey through 2011.

Neptune in Pisces

Neptune comes to a virtual standstill on June 3 and begins apparent retrograde motion, commencing its annual retreat back through the heavens until next November. When the distant planet Neptune turns retrograde we are likely to see its effects in society. Retrograde motion is a time of revisiting what has happened in the past, this time back to February 2011. Look for reversals or reexaminations of decisions regarding health care, oil drilling (Neptune rules oil and liquids of all kinds), the creative arts, drugs legislation, and shipping, to name a few areas. If your business is involved in any of these industries, be prepared for some lack of clarity until November.

To read more about Neptune in Pisces and its impact on your chart this year, see Neptune Swimming through 2011.

Uranus in Aries

Uranus left the sign Pisces and entered Aries in March beginning a brand new 84-year cycle of scientific and political innovation. Uranus embodies the principle of change, especially the kind of transitions that occur because of sudden breakthroughs and technological inventions. Society is constantly moving forward and when the time comes when the traditional is just too safe and stale, the energy of Uranus bursts through the barriers and ushers in the new.

To read more about Uranus in Aries and its impact on your chart this year, see Uranus Flashes through 2011.

Saturn in Libra

Saturn in Libra is the antithesis of Uranus in Aries. It counsels patience, persistence, responsibility, and humility in relationships, leading to cooperation and mutual support. This planet of structure and discipline provides some much-needed grounding and circumspection to hot and erratic Uranus in Aries.

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn concludes its annual period of retrograde motion on June 12. You may find yourself restarting a partnership or work alliance you thought you left behind last October. If so, you’ll have a lot more information now to make solid progress this time. Don’t be surprised if you have the sense you’re repeating the past; until the end of September Saturn will be covering the same degrees for the third time now. Remember, the third time’s the charm!

Jupiter in Aries/Taurus

For much of the last year, Jupiter has been in Aries. Aries is a fundamentally aggressive mind-set, whether in the form of the lone-wolf entrepreneur or the established global company. It brings a desire to take on the competition, expand into new territory, and develop new markets.

On June 4, Jupiter enters the sign Taurus. Jupiter, the planet of expansion, in Taurus, the sign of physical, tangible objects, spells material abundance. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Taurus represents the natural abundance of the earth, trees beginning to fruit, cows full with milk, greening pastures. In nature, this is the time when the initial spark of spring settles into solid growth. It’s also time for us to settle down.

Many people are burned-out from Jupiter’s sojourn through Aries. Risk-taking and expansion have been the keywords of the time. Now is the time to codify those good ideas and to build systems that will insure lasting success. It’s a time for slow, steady growth and long-term investment. Think, “Built to Last.”

Mars in Taurus/Gemini

Mars is in Taurus until June 20. This is the time for patient and persistent work. Mars in Taurus is a builder, piece by piece, nail by nail, bringing vision into concrete form.

When Mars moves into Gemini, we can lose focus. Our interests may become scattered and we may find ourselves spinning our wheels for a while. The best use of this energy? Learning and teaching, handing on to others what you know, mentoring, studying, and training. It’s also excellent for building distribution channels for goods and services, both transportation based and virtual.

Venus in Taurus/Gemini

Venus is in her home sign of Taurus until June 9. Venus in Taurus turns our attention toward security, the real-world kind, the kind with dollar signs. We want to invest in bricks and mortar and build relationships which will stand over time.

Venus in Gemini is very different. When Venus is in Gemini, we are extroverted, chatty, and love nothing more than to sprinkle our attention across many projects and many people. We are happiest when we’re out and about, furthering our network and negotiating.

Mercury in Taurus/Gemini/Cancer

Mercury in Taurus brings a stabilizing influence to your mind and careful, productive communications. But on June 2, Mercury enters its home sign Gemini. When Mercury moves into Gemini, conversation and networking become the order of the day. Immerse yourself in knowledge and data, and the more sources the better: books, magazines, news, email, social media, and face-to-face all yield important clues about where your business is heading and the steps to take to get there.

After less than two weeks in its favorite sign, Mercury moves on into Cancer on June 16. When Mercury travels through Cancer, your employees may prefer a one-on-one conversation rather than the most brilliant presentation. And your customers want to feel you listen to them rather than be dazzled by cleverness. Meet with everyone who needs your attention. This is a good time to spell out your vision and gain people’s loyalty.

Sun in Gemini/Cancer

The Sun in Gemini is the perfect time for sales and communication, press releases, and for disseminating your company news as widely as possible. It may be time to add to your sales force or start a company blog to broadcast your product as widely as possible. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Just be sure you only promise what you can deliver.

When the Sun moves into Cancer and through the Solstice on June 21, it brings a time of adjustment, correction, or fine-tuning. Take all of the feedback you gained when the Sun was in Gemini and use the action-oriented Solstice energy to respond to the needs of your customers. Make whatever changes will add value to your business.

Phases of the Moon

The New Moon is in Gemini on June 1 (MDT), waxing to Full in Sagittarius on June 15. The Gemini New Moon is also a Partial Solar Eclipse and the Full Moon is a Total Lunar Eclipse. Look for a new start on the New Moon in whichever house in your chart contains 11 degrees Gemini. For me, that’s the 12^th house, spirituality and service. (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

This is a month of change, with most of the planets either changing sign or direction. Add to that two eclipses and this becomes a power month, one that ends in a very different place than it began. But there are no major difficult aspects to the outer planets this month, so it should be a month of progress. If you keep it loose, it may even be fun!

Are you in astrological overwhelm? Check out this link on my other blog for 5 simple ways to get your feet wet in astrology without drowning. Astrology is so Vast; Where Do I Start?

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

June 1 New Moon; Partial Solar Eclipse

June 2 Mercury enters Gemini

June 3 Neptune assumes retrograde motion

June 4 Jupiter enters Taurus

June 9 Venus enters Gemini

June 12 Saturn assumes direct motion

June 15 Full Moon; Total Lunar Eclipse

June 16 Mercury enters Cancer

June 20 Mars enters Gemini

June 21 Sun enters Cancer; Solstice

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Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

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

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Alert!

May 22

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 8 Comments

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

Hello everyone.

This week continues this month’s relatively easy and fulfilling trend. No difficult planetary aspects mark the sky and in fact, there’s a couple which are full of promise, supportive and invigorating. We’re in the waning phase of the Moon, with its tone of letting go of the current projects on our desks, and we’re beginning to prepare for the next monthly cycle which begins with the Solar Partial Eclipse on June 1^st.

Monday

This is an excellent day for coming to agreements, ones that will stand the test of time. With Venus conjunct Mars in Taurus, there’s an ability to commit to a lasting bond and to put that commitment to practical use. Each time two planets meet in the sky it brings energies together in a new way for a new cycle. This week’s meeting forges a new bond between our creative juices and the ability to take the action necessary to reach tangible outcomes. It can set up a cycle that will continue to produce results until the next time Venus and Mars come together, which is in April 2013.

How can you take advantage of today’s conjunction? Put your creative team together with your operations people; you could be surprised how well they work together and the practical yet elegant solutions they come up with. You don’t have to do it yourself today; the people around you can take the reins and set the new cycle in motion.

If you’re a one-or-two person shop like I am, grounded, steady work today will lead to great results. It may be slow-going and tedious at times but just take up one concrete task after another. At the end of the day you’ll have produced something valuable, something with legs that will set a firm foundation for the next couple of years.

Wednesday

Uranus entered Aries earlier this year, marking the beginning of a new 84-year cycle of innovation and invention. Initiative, spontaneity, change, and breakthrough are some of the keywords of Uranus in Aries.

On Wednesday, with the Sun in Gemini forming a sextile to Uranus, you are likely to encounter information which gives you a peek into where this new Uranus cycle is taking you. You could recognize an opportunity for growth and development; something that may have been lingering in the back of your mind could take shape. Take the time to synthesize information from a number of sources and you’ll see the pattern. This is an energizing aspect, bright and alert.

Go easy on the coffee this week though; this Sun/Uranus aspect will provide plenty of nervous energy and caffeine may jangle your nerves just a little too much.

Have a great week!

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – May 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Mars, Sun, Uranus, Venus

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Busy!

May 15

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 207 Comments

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

Hello everyone.

This week is very busy, with the Full Moon early in the week and the end of the week packed with aspects between Mercury, Mars, Venus and powerhouse Pluto. Add to this next Sunday’s sparring between the Sun, newly in Gemini, and Neptune in Pisces and we’ve got a week of healthy challenges with the ability to meet them head-on.

Full Moon

We’ll ramp up to the Full Moon all day on Monday as it reaches culmination early on Tuesday (MDT). The Full Moon this month is an opposition between the Sun in Taurus and the Moon in Scorpio. Both Scorpio and Taurus are related to money. Taurus rules our own finances and Scorpio rules outside resources like lenders, investors, and insurers. This Full Moon asks you to look at the extent of your reliance on these outside resources and whether they are helping or hindering your own financial stability. What is the ratio of your debt to your assets? How is your credit rating? How much of your monthly budget is spent on interest payments? If these issues are perfectly in balance, fine. If they are weighted too strongly in one direction or the other, this Moon will bring awareness and the will to do something about it.

Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Pluto

Let me start by saying that Mercury, Venus, and Mars form an excellent aspect to Pluto this week, one which brings opportunity and an increase in our personal power and influence. Sometimes people hear Pluto will be active and they immediately think of death, destruction, and upheaval. Pluto can be these things but also healing, transformation, and rebirth. Whether the former or the latter, it all works to our advantage this week.

"All for one; one for all." By Maurice Leloir, engraved on wood by Jules Huyot. (Source:Wikipedia)

We spoke last week about Mercury and Venus traveling together in the sky and this week they catch up with Mars – like the three Musketeers, “all for one, one for all.” In last week’s post I spoke about Mercury and Venus together:

…This is like a device that works well and is beautiful to look at. Or when your best systems manager is also great with people. When your smartest analyst can create a presentation that really pops or when your marketing director never overpromises because she understands what it takes to deliver.

Add Mars in Taurus to this mix and we get all the above plus the energy to actually take action and implement. Mars is impatient with plans and concepts, and even uninterested in beauty and form. Mars wants to take the field and lead people to accomplishment. This adds a spark to this week that was missing last week, and a much better chance of actually producing something tangible.

These three are working together all week when they run into the vibe of Pluto. Pluto is a detective, an undercover sleuth and he will lend these talents to Mercury, Venus, and Mars. This makes for an excellent week to get to the bottom of something and make changes that are overdue. Are your people in the right positions? Is production on schedule? Are your major projects in alignment with your company’s goals? Does the current economic and political environment support your vision?

This whole configuration is in earth signs: it’s time to get practical in the physical world. We’re talking “atoms rather than bits” as Chris Anderson of WIRED Magazine coined the phrase. Nail by nail, this week is about dismantling something worn out and recycling the parts into something with new promise.

Sun/Neptune

We’ll be grateful for all this solid earth energy this week because with the Sun squaring Neptune next Sunday, anyone in leadership is likely to get more and more spaced out as the week unfolds. When the Sun intersects Neptune’s vibe, it’s important that we strive for clarity and not believe everything we hear. We shouldn’t even necessarily trust our own judgment!

However, if we can turn our attention away from the nuts and bolts of running our businesses, creative waves of vision and inspiration will wash over us next weekend. Try to delegate day-to-day to your best staff and let yourself become inspired by your muse.

Have a great, busy week!

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – May 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Full Moon, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, Pluto, Sun, Venus

Astro4Business Month Ahead – May 2011

Apr 30

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 8 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for May, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we 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 travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
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.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our activities.

Pluto in Capricorn

Pluto turned retrograde on April 9. You may have noticed a reversal which will lead you back to a problem you thought you had resolved. If so, you’re not quite finished with it yet. Excavate any lingering issues and put them finally to rest.

To read more about Pluto in Capricorn and its impact on your chart this year, see Pluto’s Journey through 2011.

Neptune in Pisces

Neptune begins the month at home in Pisces. Neptune in Pisces begins a shift from the intellectual associations and words-based networking which were common for the last thirteen years when Neptune was in Aquarius, to connections based on feelings and shared beliefs. New groups will form around a unified vision for the future. Borders will shift as disparate groups come together and merge into one larger whole while other sectors dissolve. New tools and technology will pervade our business processes based on changing media which will allow for more spontaneous creativity. We will incorporate the senses more and more into products and services. Look for breakthroughs in medical fields including alternative medicine and mental and emotional health.

To read more about Neptune in Pisces and its impact on your chart this year, see Neptune Swimming through 2011.

Uranus in Aries

To read more about Uranus in Aries and its impact on your chart this year, see Uranus Flashes through 2011.

Saturn in Libra

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn is still in its annual period of retrograde motion. Moving retrograde for 4 ½ months each year, this phase provides the opportunity to examine whether our standard modes of operation truly spring from our own values, or have been imposed upon us by authority figures or societal norms. It’s a time when our regular structures of support and stability may be withdrawn and we have to rely upon our own creativity and self-discipline to achieve our goals.

Jupiter in Aries

In January Jupiter entered Aries, where it will be until June 4. Aries is a fundamentally aggressive mind-set, whether in the form of the lone-wolf entrepreneur or the established global company. It brings a desire to take on the competition, expand into new territory, and develop new markets.

Jupiter in Aries begins a new twelve-year Jupiter cycle. This is an excellent time to begin a whole new endeavor. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. Can you think about the next twelve years and being “first” in some aspect of your industry? Jupiter likes to think big! It’s time to take a new plunge: big plans, big risks. This is a time of expansion, new projects, and bold moves.

Mars in Aries/Taurus

Mars is in Aries until May 11. Use these first days of May to initiate new ideas and fresh projects while the Aries energy fuels us with vitality. Your staff will enjoy a challenge, contest, or competition.

When Mars moves into Taurus on the 11^th you’ll notice a definite shift in energy. This is the time to take the best of the ideas generated while Mars was in Aries and begin the patient and persistent work it will take to bring them to fruition. Mars in Taurus is a builder, piece by piece, nail by nail, bringing your vision into concrete form.

Venus in Aries/Taurus

Venus is in Aries until May 15 when she too transitions into Taurus. Venus in Aries is the time to initiate new relationships and present bold propositions: the flashier, the better.

Venus is Taurus is a very different energy. Venus in Taurus is less heady and more sensual. This is a great time to woo new customers and colleagues by exhibiting your emphasis on excellent value and long-lasting relationships. Spend that marketing expense account and if you don’t have one, eke out some money from somewhere to take your best prospect to a fine restaurant. Appeal to the senses while Venus is in Taurus.

Mercury in Aries/Taurus

Mercury also moves into Taurus on May 15. While Mercury is still in Aries, keep talking, envisioning, inventing, and persuading.

When Mercury moves into Taurus you’ll notice a stabilizing influence return to your mind and your communications will be much more careful and productive. Remember to have patience with yourself and others if you lose that spark you had when Mercury was in Aries. What you gain is the ability to actually plan and implement those great ideas, albeit at a slower pace.

Sun in Taurus/Gemini

The Sun is in Taurus until May 21 and then moves into chatty, intellectual Gemini. The Sun in Taurus brings form and functionality to your business. The Sun in Gemini brings the energy of exchange and interchange. Get out from behind your desk and meet and greet people. This is a time of sharing your thoughts and gathering ideas from others.

Phases of the Moon

The New Moon is in Taurus on May 3 (MDT), waxing to Full in Scorpio on May 17. Look for a new start on the New Moon in whichever house in your chart contains 12 degrees Taurus. For me, that’s the 11^th house, community and group endeavors. (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

After a few months of high energy, high impact Aries energy, our activities will settle down this month with Mars, Venus, and Mercury moving into Taurus. There are no changes in any of the outer planets either, in terms of sign or retrograde motion. Add to this that there are no truly difficult aspects between any planets this month so we’ll have time to take a breather, enjoy the spring or autumn, and conserve our energy for the future. Steady and sure-footed are the keywords this month.

Are you in astrological overwhelm? Check out this link on my other blog for 5 simple ways to get your feet wet in astrology without drowning. Astrology is so Vast; Where Do I Start?

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

May 3 New Moon in Taurus

May 11 Mars enters Taurus

May 15 Mercury enters Taurus; Venus enters Taurus

May 17 Full Moon in Scorpio

May 21 Sun enters Gemini

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Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

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

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Don’t Rain on My Parade

Apr 24

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 50 Comments

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

Hello everyone.

Can it be the end of April already? Sure enough we’re in the final week and also the final week of the Moon, winding down and cleaning up in preparation for the next cycle. Venus takes on Pluto and Saturn this week; she’s ready for a fight and I hope she can hold her own. Venus in Aries is a warrior, but Pluto and Saturn are no lightweights themselves. At the end of the week there is a rocket-launching Mars/Jupiter conjunction. Only two days are highlighted this week but these energies are so powerful the whole week will be affected. Let’s look at these two days a little further.

Wednesday

Very early Wednesday morning, maybe even Tuesday evening depending on your time zone, Venus in Aries reaches a 90° angle with Pluto in Capricorn. This angle is known for tension and intractability; two parties are each sure they are exclusively in the right and are willing to go to the mats to prove it. Venus rules money and Pluto rules the economy as a whole, including banking, debt, and taxes. It may feel like others want too big a share of your pie and you’re “mad as hell and not going to take it anymore!” There’s a battle brewing this week and you may as well take a stand and try to protect your assets.

In the evening the Sun in Taurus forms a trine aspect with that same Pluto in Capricorn. This can bring a test of your own personal power and you will probably come out victorious. You may negotiate a compromise position or recognize you have allies behind the scenes who are ready to come to your aid. The day will end on a high note, but you may have fought a hard fight. Time to celebrate your success with a little food, wine, and companionship.

Saturday

On Saturday Venus in Aries opposes Saturn in Libra. We’re used to thinking of feminine Venus as a mediator and negotiator, but when she’s in Aries, she can put her dukes up with the best of them. Saturn counsels restraint and caution but Venus is ready to act.

This aspect can bring an opportunity your way but with Saturn strong in Libra you may feel too cautious or restrained to actually take it. You may feel that you can’t afford it or you don’t have the support you need to succeed and that may be true. Venus opposing Saturn can feel really frustrating as feisty Venus wants new experiences but conservative Saturn wants to continue with the tried and true. See the short video from the film Funny Girl below for a great example of Venus in Aries sloughing off her cautious Saturnian advisors, “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” This is the spirit of this aspect but don’t forget how the story ends. Take the voices of experience seriously while you can today because….

…a few hours later Mars meets Jupiter in Aries, which sparks an ignition. The Aries energy won’t be held back any longer. You’re up for a challenge as Jupiter in Aries thinks big and Mars in Aries wants to take action with passion. Growth, expansion, competition: all these catch fire with this transit. This aspect is fortunate in that Mars gives you the expertise right down on the field of action and Jupiter gives you the view from the hilltop. You can see the patterns below and instantly respond, knowing when to advance and when to retreat. This environment propels you to take the big risk, except that the New Moon is less than three days away. So make your plans now, buy your supplies, get people on board, make sure all your tools are in working order, and then launch after May 3.

Have a wonderful week and as always, let me know how it all pans out. Your comments expand our understanding of the impact of astrology on our businesses.

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For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: Aries, astrology, business, Jupiter, Mars, Pluto, Saturn, Venus

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Impact

Apr 10

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 12 Comments

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

Hello, everyone.

This week opens with a bang on Monday and that impact is carried all the way into the week until the Full Moon next Sunday.

Monday

Monday opens with the 1^st quarter Moon which always brings a decision point. What has been in motion in the past will continue in the same direction unless you step into the driver’s seat. This point in the lunar cycle has been described as a car going around a curve: you either take the wheel and negotiate the curve or natural forces will continue their pre-ordained path and you’ll run right off the road. Usually a choice has to be made, gaining something and leaving something behind. But the key is to act with courage and with the Moon in Cancer, with the emotional support of those closest to you.

A few hours later Mars challenges Pluto. In other words, fiery aggressive energy challenges the powers that be in government, society, and the economy. You may feel ready to take on the world in order to move your business forward. Alternately, one of your staff leaders may feel you are the inflexible authority who must be challenged.

These energies need a strong hand. Truly there is the potential to break new ground and to finally overcome what has seemed so intractable. But there is nothing kind or pussy-footed about this aspect. Ray Merriman of the excellent Merriman Market Analyst warns, “[This] can be a confrontational dynamic where each side refuses to bend to the point of a functional compromise. One side will have to break, for hard aspects between Mars and Pluto almost never conclude in a win-win result.”

And then later in the day Mercury and Jupiter meet in Aries. Mercury represents the intellect and Jupiter usually represents wisdom. But with both of these planets in impulsive, idealistic Aries your intellect may be overcome with grand ideas and following on the heels of the Mars/Pluto influence above, you may become convinced that a big aggressive move is the only true solution. Whoa there, partner! Remember that when Mercury is retrograde all is not as it seems. Take that big idea and file it for the time being. It will gain a lot more traction if you wait a couple of weeks before you put it in motion. Over-confidence, idealistic conviction, and impatience will signal an idea whose time has not come.

And the rest of the week

The rest of the week carries Monday’s themes forward with the growing energy between the Sun and Moon, culminating in the Full Moon on Sunday. There’s dramatic flair midweek and an emphasis on creativity. Some of your staff will be on mental holiday with Mercury retrograde so you’ll have to take the lead. Provide yourself with artistic outlets and move through the week with a sense of wonder and play. This will bring everything to completion right on time.

Have a great week and please share in the comments how you experienced these energies. I’m really interested in how that Mars/Pluto square impacted your business life this week.

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – April 2011

To see an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for me? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – April 2011

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Full Moon, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury Retrograde, Pluto

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Aries Hot!

Mar 27

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 6 Comments

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

Hello, everyone.

Are you feeling the heat? Don’t worry, by the end of the week you will be. This week is all Aries, all the time. If you’re an adventurous spirit, you’re gonna love it. If not, you may want to run for cover.

Let me list it out for you:

Monday Sun in Aries squaring Pluto in Capricorn; Jupiter in Aries opposing Saturn in Libra

Wednesday Mercury in Aries making its station and turning retrograde

Friday Mars entering Aries, becoming very powerful in the sign it rules

Sunday New Moon in Aries; Mars conjuncting Uranus in Aries; Sun in Aries opposing Saturn in Libra

That’s a lot of warrior energy! And I’d say it might be frustrated warrior energy with the Moon losing energy all week preparing for the New Moon on Sunday and Mercury turning retrograde mid-week. Both of these indicate an inward-turning, quieting tide, just the opposite of rash, impulsive, put-your-foot-down-and-stomp-around Aries energy.

And that’s just your local environment. On the wider societal and global stage this week we have that square from Pluto in Capricorn, oppositions from Saturn in Libra, and Uranus joining the fray. We can call it destruction (Pluto), limitation (Saturn), and revolution (Uranus) at every intersection this week.

The most challenging aspects are the square from Pluto in Capricorn on Monday and the conjunction of Mars with Uranus next Sunday. I’m not too worried about the oppositions from Saturn in Libra. Saturn is exalted in Libra and will bring a dose of diplomacy, collaboration, and respect – a needed antidote to the self-referential and fiery Aries energy.

Sun square Pluto

We know the Sun in Aries brings an active, dynamic, aggressive energy to those in leadership. We are apt to act first and ask questions later. This is extremely valuable when we have to begin a new endeavor or push projects forward that are lagging or stalled.

But as we take hasty action this week we run smack into Pluto in Capricorn. Pluto in Capricorn is a change agent, toppling over time the institutions in our lives that have gotten oppressive and tradition-bound. Upheaval is a keyword for the process, but the attitudes which created these forms in the first place take many, many years to destroy. No quick fixes here, which is all the Sun in Aries is interested in. The Sun in Aries is not a long-haul energy; it wants to take action and be quickly rewarded.

As you implement your plans this week you could run into one hurdle after another, seemingly intransigent obstacles that you are probably sick and tired of dealing with. The energy will ease up after the beginning of the week, but only after you’ve adjusted your expectations about what you can reasonably accomplish. No side-stepping this week.

This square requires us to actively confront and resolve our problems. Take definite acts of self-assertion but recognize that there is clean-up work to be done, and there’s no one else to do it but you. As the leader, direct your attention to burning away anything malicious, destructive, disloyal, or decaying that comes to light. It’s not the first time you’ve had to do this and it won’t be the last. But it’s the work to do this week.

Mars conjunct Uranus

Helmeted young warrior, so-called Ares. Roman copy from a Greek original—this is a plaster replica, the original is now stored in the Museum of the Villa. Canope at the Villa Adriana in Tivoli.

With Mars entering Aries on Friday and approaching its conjunction with Uranus on Sunday, you may spend the entire week dealing with one conflict after another. Mars in Aries incites a competitive fierceness which is great if you can wield it and hard to bear if it’s used against you. You’ve got to stay on the offense this week as others vie for position and take advantage of any ambivalence. Even within your staff, your operations and production people may be feisty and geared up, fomenting a full-blown revolution by the end of the week if you’re not careful. It will take an absolute here and now presence from you, dealing swiftly with each matter as it arises, and there could be many.

You may be called upon to defend others in a righteous cause and if so, you could be surprised at your level of courage and determination. Or you may finally feel you’ve had enough of excuses for mediocrity, in yourself or others. You will have the insight to break through entrenched boundaries with this aspect, but you may end up in a place you could not have predicted.

One strong caution for the week is to keep up or even ramp up your exercise regimen. This Mars/Uranus energy is very physical and stressful; it needs a positive outlet. But be careful. Push your limits but don’t exceed them, as this erratic, unpredictable energy can lead to accidents if you take it too far.

Mercury Retrograde

On Wednesday Mercury, the planet that rules all of the communications and information it takes to keep a business running, turns retrograde. Mercury is retrograde for 18 days three times a year. From our geocentric point of view, Mercury has gotten way out in front of the Sun, as far ahead as it can go. Now it begins to regress, apparently moving backwards through the zodiac until it meets the Sun and then falls even farther behind it. In 18 days Mercury will resume direct motion and begin to catch up with the Sun again.

The Sun represents you, the leader, and Mercury represents all of the tools and people you use to gather the information you need, including assistants, PR people, research teams, accountants, and IT. These people have pulled ahead of you, so to speak, treading ground you have yet to explore. You may feel that your company has gotten ahead of itself, or you’ve been too distracted by new information to manage the projects currently on your plate. Mercury retrograde is the time to pull everyone back, to review what they have been doing, and to plan how to incorporate all the new information. This also begins a period to evaluate your team’s efforts and be sure everyone is working toward the goals you have established.

New Moon in Aries

Usually I advise people to rest during the couple days before and after the New Moon. It’s generally a time of inactivity, a seeding time for the new endeavor which will reveal itself just after the New Moon. But this month, I don’t think we’ll have the luxury. With all of this Aries activity, and the Sun and Moon in Aries at the New Moon on Sunday, I just don’t think we’ll be able to relax. We’ll “want to be starting somethin’” in the words of Michael Jackson. So go for it! It may be a flash in the pan but if you try to resist the pro-activity of Aries, you risk burning out your circuits. Aries needs to ACT, so if you feel the urge, indulge it with passion! That will please Mars, the fiery ruler of this sign.

So that’s the week, a hotbed of powerful push-pull energies. Don’t forget to sense the childlike quality of the Aries energy and have some fun.

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – March 2011

To get an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

For more business information on the planets mentioned this week, see these links:

Tags: Aries, astrology, business, Mars, Mercury Retrograde, New Moon

Astro4Business Month Ahead – March 2011

Feb 28

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead, Introduction to Astrology for Business | 11 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for March, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we 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 travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
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.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our daily 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 upheaval and transformation to many of the structures we have come to rely upon: government, organized religion, the economy, industry, and the military, to name a few. This transit carries the energy of revolution and evolution and can be dramatic and at times overwhelming. Pluto exposes what is hidden, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.

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 reaches planets in your chart and forces the issue.

Everyone with planets within five to nine degrees of any sign is actively dealing with this energy but especially if those planets are in Capricorn, Aries, Cancer, or Libra. You will probably notice a deeper and deeper probing and cleansing all year long, related to the issues mentioned above. Try to open a large space within yourself for a whole new perspective; be willing to irrevocably let go of something that has become outmoded. Pluto transits can be difficult, but when the work is done they are the most rewarding because we are permanently freed from a long-standing, but hidden, issue.

Neptune in Aquarius

With Neptune in Aquarius (see category at right) from 1998 to 2011-2012, we’ve seen a growing global consensus regarding the equal value of all beings, shared responsibility for our planet, the distribution of technology to all corners of the world, 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 yourself to open to waves of inspiration from the collective whole, from your local community to the global community. Expect to be inspired by your neighbors and friends, both near and far.

If you have planets between 26 and 29 degrees of any sign expect to experience a subtle but powerful dissatisfaction with certain areas of your life this year and a yearning for a more meaningful connection to others. Pay attention to non-intellectual sources of knowledge such as dreams and art. Feel what is happening, listen for underlying currents rather than what is apparent on the surface. This disconcerting influence can dissolve the forms in our life which have no real content for us anymore. This can be disorienting and confusing while it is happening but once deeper connections are made, the benefits are rewarding and long-lasting.

Uranus in Pisces/Aries

Uranus finally leaves the sign Pisces and enters Aries on March 11. This transition is noteworthy because there is always a shift when Uranus changes signs. But the transition into Aries is even bigger than the usual 7-year movement from sign to sign. Since Pisces is the last sign in the natural zodiac, and Aries is the first, we are looking at a seismic shift, the beginning of a new 84-year cycle. Uranus has not been at this beginning point in the zodiac since 1928. The whole period from 1928 to 2011 has been one long cycle of creative innovation which is now giving birth to a whole new cycle.

Uranus began its ingress into Aries last May but due to retrograde motion it slid back into Pisces until this month. Many astrologers have predicted pretty dire consequences for Uranus in Aries and we’ve seen the warm-up acts ever since the planet Jupiter entered Aries in January.

Aries is the sign ruled by Mars, the Roman god of war. This hot-headed god tended to act first and think later (if at all). The Mars energy can be selfish, or at least self-referential, and full of desire. Mars sees what it wants and takes it. So it is concerning that Uranus, which brings change, rebellion, and technological advancement is in cahoots with this god of war.

But there are positive sides to this new chapter. Uranus itself embodies the principle of change, especially the kind of transitions that occur because of sudden breakthroughs and technological innovations. Society is constantly moving forward and when the time comes when the traditional is just too safe and stale, the energy of Uranus bursts through the barriers and ushers in the new.

For so many years people have felt powerless to address the challenges of our world, especially those caused by entrenched positions in government, big business, and the military. But now there is a new movement afoot – one in which we are all coming to understand that we are individually powerful and that each act we perform has the power to change our world.

This is the positive face of Uranus in Aries: the one willing to take responsibility for the whole even if that means standing alone to do so; the lone hunter who provides for the entire tribe; the individual with the courage to speak out on behalf of others; the inspired entrepreneur who through her efforts improves other people’s lives.

We won’t be working in concert with others so much as we did when Uranus was in Pisces. But in breaking free of the crowd we can break free of groupthink, too. What do we think when we stand outside of the cluster we have identified with? What is the truth for us alone? With the courage of Aries, we can act from our own truth.

What does this mean for us in business? We will probably feel compelled to take risks we would not even have considered in the past. We may feel confined by the people around us or the structures we’ve implemented and surprise ourselves and others by heading into a brand new direction. We may seek opportunities for travel and study, or to bring scientific or technical discoveries into our products and services. We may approach everyday challenges as battles to be fought and won. We want out of our shell, even if we created it.

If you have planets between 28 and 4 degrees of the next sign it’s time to let yourself be excited by something new; branch out, experiment, try new things. Support a cause you believe in and invest your time in societal change. This will positively channel the excess nervous and intellectual energy Uranus can bring.

Saturn in Libra

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn becomes less direct and overt when in retrograde motion which can relieve stress and struggle. Yet as business managers we may see that our authority becomes undermined as others break free from outer rules and regulations too. Be ready to improvise; think jazz rather than classical for the next few months.

Jupiter in Aries

In January Jupiter entered Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. As noted above, Aries is a fundamentally aggressive mind-set, whether in the form of the lone-wolf entrepreneur or the established global company. It brings a desire to take on the competition, expand into new territory, and develop new markets.

Competition will feature strongly over the next few months, whether this competition is directed against others or against the limits you’ve reached in the past. There’s a lack of restraint to Jupiter in Aries, some may say a foolishness, which endeavors against all odds to win.

Jupiter’s ingress into Aries marks the beginning of a new twelve year Jupiter cycle. This is an excellent time to begin a whole new endeavor. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. Can you think about the next twelve years and being “first” in some aspect of your industry? Jupiter likes to think big! It’s time to take a new plunge: big plans, big risks, the next five months will be a time of expansion, new projects, and bold moves.

Mars in Pisces

Mars entered Pisces last month changing the tenor of our energy and output. Our focus may become scattered as we respond to subtle currents around us. With Mars in Pisces we tend to see all sides of issues and may become over-emotional. We can scatter our energy in helping others rather than adhering to our own schedule and progress.

Unless, that is, you are in a creative field. In that case, this placement of Mars brings inspiration and the will to respond to it with concrete output. Think Michelangelo and Vincent van Gogh – both with Mars in Pisces.

Venus in Aquarius/Pisces

Venus travels into Aquarius on the first of March and, moving quickly through that sign, enters Pisces on March 26.

Venus in Aquarius brings out our intellectual side. Our social instincts rise; we become concerned with what is right and fair. We can improve our professional relationships by joining associations or contributing with others to a just cause. A group endeavor enhances our creativity.

Venus is exalted in the sign Pisces. This is the time when you can catch your best creative ideas of the year. 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 branding for which we recommend this to hire the worcester SEO company will pay off during Venus in Pisces and you can expect your employees to be imaginative and happy.

Mercury in Pisces/Aries

Mercury begins the month in Pisces, moves into Aries on the 9^th, and then turns retrograde in Aries on March 30.

Images communicate better than words when Mercury is in Pisces; be sure your writing and speaking include symbols and color. Your thoughts flow more easily and your best ideas come from dreaming, day-dreaming, and fantasy, so include time for all of these.

Mercury in Aries revs our mental engines. Our thinking becomes inventive and our communications persuasive. Watch for aggressiveness; give others a chance to speak too.

You may have so many ideas and so much enthusiasm you’ll need extra help just to keep track of it all. Watch for overload; headaches will be a sign to relax, cool your jets, and pace yourself.

Sun in Pisces/Aries

The Sun in Pisces is 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.

On March 20 is the Equinox; vernal for us northerners; autumnal for you southerners. (That’s north and south of the equator.) Half way between the longest and shortest day of the year, it’s time to take stock. How far have you come since the Solstice? Have you accomplished your goals so far this year? Is there a course correction you need to make?

The Sun in Aries is a time of heightened energy and new beginnings. Take advantage of this fire to get yourself on track. You are ready; act!

Phases of the Moon

The New Moon is in Pisces on March 4, waxing to full in Virgo on March 19. Look for a new start in whichever house contains 13 degrees Pisces. For me, that’s career and business! (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

With Mercury, Uranus, and Jupiter in Aries by March 11, and the Sun joining by March 20 this month will feature a fighting spirit and the will to conquer new territory and introduce radical new ideas. Fortunately, Venus in Aquarius will bring in collaboration and Saturn in Libra will remind us of our interdependence with others. The winning spirit of Aries is great for business but remember: you’ll still need relationships once the gains have been won.

In case you are wondering how to get the most out of this monthly forecast, check out this link. Some time ago a reader asked about it and you’ll see my instructions when you follow the link.

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

March 1 Venus enters Aquarius

March 4 New Moon in Pisces

March 9 Mercury enters Aries

March 11 Uranus enters Aries

March 19 Full Moon in Virgo

March 20 Sun enters Aries

March 26 Venus enters Pisces

March 30 Mercury turns retrograde

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For an overview of the year ahead, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

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

Astro4Business Intersections

Business success through Astrology

Posts Tagged Mars

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Alliance Adjustment

Astro4Business Month Ahead – July 2011

Astro4Business Month Ahead – June 2011

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Alert!

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Busy!

Astro4Business Month Ahead – May 2011

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Don’t Rain on My Parade

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Impact

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Aries Hot!

Astro4Business Month Ahead – March 2011

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