Astro4Business Intersections

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Posts Tagged Venus

Letter to Mars – Welcome Back

Mar 10

Posted by Ellen in Introduction to Astrology for Business, Mars in Leo, Retrograde Motion, The Planets | 3 Comments

Dear Mars, 

I sat down 10 minutes ago to write you this letter and was interrupted once again!  I’ve been trying to write this post all morning.   You are turning direct in exactly three minutes, and I’m waiting, counting down the seconds. 

Fireworks 4Everything is on hold!  I can’t even write my blog post welcoming you back because there is no activity:  no brain wave activity, no ideas, no momentum.  This isn’t like me.  I miss your razzmatazz.  Are you sleeping, like my friend who said they slept all night last night and then continued to sleep all day today? 

I wanted to let people know you are moving into direct motion a couple of hours before you turned so they could be prepared.  I wanted to help them be ready.  And although I awoke this morning with a great idea about comparing the moment to just before a race flag is lowered, it fizzled out when I couldn’t find any good photos to go with the post. 

I thought it was a good analogy:  engines revved, the flag comes down, the initiating force of acceleration and gear-shifting, the gathering of momentum until we reach full speed in the next few weeks.  Good, right?  Then full-stop.  There I was, wheels spinning, rubber burning, but no traction. 

Fireworks 2So I thought, I’ll check the Harvard Business Review Management Tips and find one related to Mars to clarify this moment with a good case study.  But there were no Mars related entries, only “Retaining Talent” and “Enduring the Trials of Entrepreneurship”.  Good for a Venus day, or maybe a Saturn day, but not for you, Mars. 

I successfully ran a project meeting this morning, your province, but that’s not to say things are moving along in the project.  Yes, it was a lovely meeting, but outcomes? 

And it’s not only me.  My clients have reported stalled real estate deals, job offers going nowhere, tax information blocked, project plans averted, publishers dragging their feet, and general feelings of overwhelm and overload, with no energy to make any progress.  We need you back! 

Okay, it’s 12:20 PM EST.  You resumed direct motion 11 minutes ago.  Welcome back.  These fireworks are for you.  I’ll try to be patient while you come up to speed, but sooner rather than later would work for me.  I’ve got a lot to get done! 

Yours always,

Ellen

For other posts on the current Mars in Leo cycle, see these links:

Mars in Leo

Let Your Light Shine

The Creativity of Business

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!

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Astro4Business Week – March 8

Mar 7

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Week, Introduction to Astrology for Business | No Comments

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

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 is active, hot, and combustible until the weekend when things calm down.  Venus gets involved in the Saturn/Pluto square and she can be a fierce fighter herself.  Adding Venus to the mix of these two battling titans, plus Mars turning direct, will make for a volatile few days.

Tuesday

On Tuesday, the stand-off begins as Venus opposes Saturn.  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.  Don’t be too heavy handed, especially with your creative staff, or you might get a rebellion you didn’t bargain for. 

By Andrea Mantegna, 1502

By Andrea Mantegna, 1502

 

Wednesday

This is the day we’ve all been waiting for, when Mars returns to direct motion.  It may take a few days to really get going, but projects will begin to move forward again.  Your energy will return and your competitive nature will flare.

Thursday

As if it wasn’t enough for Venus to take on Saturn, today she engages Pluto with the same fighter instinct.  The foe may be more intractable this time though, as Pluto represents the powers that be:  government, banks, the economy, and taxes.   It may feel like everyone has their hand in your pocket and they may.  You’re fighting against the odds, but you may as well go for it.  Think “Athena, Goddess of War” and unsheathe your sword.

Sunday

Sunday is a softer, more lenient day and is focused on communication, with the Sun and Mercury joining in Pisces.  You can let off a little steam from the pressure of the week and relax.  A short trip would be great, perhaps to water, or enter a fantasy world with movies and entertainment.  Enjoy the day – you deserve it!

Let me know how your week unfolds.

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

For more information on Mars turning direct and how to use it for your business, see:

Mars in Leo

Let Your Light Shine

The Creativity of Business

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! 

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Astro4Business Month Ahead – March

Mar 2

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Month Ahead, Introduction to Astrology for Business | 2 Comments

 Solar_systemHello, everyone.

Let’s look at March 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 reaches planets in your chart and forces the issue.  Everyone with planets in the first seven degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn are already dealing with this energy.

 Neptune in Aquarius

With Neptune in Aquarius (see category at right) from 1998 to 2011, there has been 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 engendered innovation and invention in business.  It flattened hierarchies and enhanced global transactions and interactions.  With many variables in play simultaneously, we’ve been working 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 of these is good for the end of the cycle.

Saturn in Libra

Saturn is transiting 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 can express 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 business expansion and profits.

Mars in Leo

When Mars is in Leo our will power becomes focused and controlled.  Mars in Leo loves to lead and gives faithfully and generously to those who follow.  When Mars is in Leo we are honest, direct, and fully dependable.  The sign Leo is also creative and artistic, so at this time we love performance and display. 

The best use of Mars in Leo?  Make your light shine with dignity and strength.  Lead with steadiness and authority.  Throw yourself into creative activities.  Secure and enjoy the limelight. 

Mars resumes direct motion on March 10.  During its retrograde motion since December 20, Mars retraced its steps all the way back to the very beginning of Leo.  We have a chance to start over now on all of the creative projects we envisioned since October, but with a lot more information this time!  Take advantage of this period of heightened creativity and expect high performance from your employees too. 

(This is a good time to reread the Mars in Leo category to the right.)

Venus in Pisces/Aries

The first few days of the month Venus is in Pisces, where she is exalted.  Catch your best creative ideas of the year before she enters Aries on 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. 

When Venus enters Aries on March 7 and Mars turns direct on March 10 expect fireworks of display and creativity.  These two planets in fire signs will ignite sales, interactions, motivation, and competition.  Are you ready?  The time has come to ACT!

Mercury in Pisces/Aries

Mercury begins the month in the sign of the fish, the sea, Pisces.  The sharp focused intellect of Mercury in Aquarius gives way to a softer approach.  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.

On March 17, Mercury enters Aries, joining the bonfire with Venus and Mars.  By this point there may be 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?  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; go for it!

Phases of the Moon

The new Moon is in Pisces on March 15, waxing to full in Libra on March 29.

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. Jupiter enhances our emotional connection to one another, which we’ll need this month since Venus, Mars, Mercury, and the Sun are all in fire signs by the end of the month.  Passion, inspiration, motivation, and healthy competition will ignite a new beginning with the new season.

 Let me know how your month plays 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! Have a question now? Email it and let’s get started!

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Astro4Business Week – March 1

Feb 28

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Week | No Comments

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

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.

A week of changes ahead with Mercury and Venus changing signs, and a volatile aspect between Venus and Uranus.  Although not difficult, don’t expect to be in the same place at the end of the week as you are at the beginning.

Monday

On Monday Mercury enters the sign of Pisces.  The sharp focused intellect of Mercury in Aquarius gives way to a softer approach.  Images communicate better than words when Mercury is in Pisces, so 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.

Wednesday

Expect the unexpected where finances are concerned today with Venus joining risk-taking Uranus.  Financial astrologers expect sharp price swings and you may experience this volatility in your own purse, up or down.  Poise yourself to take advantage of a sudden opportunity but be careful not to spend money like water and or you could drain your purse completely. 

Thursday

Dreamy Mercury in Pisces snuggles up to Pluto in Capricorn today.  Your communications will be powerful and persuasive.  If the economic turmoil is impinging on your business plans, allow yourself some time to just listen; a deep and insightful clue to resolution could be revealed.

Sunday

Venus enters Aries today and then meets up with her counterpart, Mars.  Venus in Aries is self-interested, and with Mars at the end of its retrograde cycle you want to strike while the iron is hot.  This can be a great day for negotiations if you can allow some give and take.  Your passions can ignite a new creative partnership today but don’t expect it to take shape until after the 10th.

A little later Mercury and Jupiter join up.  Mercury rules the intellect and Jupiter represents wisdom.  You can take in the full picture today and when speaking to others, you will be eloquent and inspiring.  Remember to use images rather than words to get your points across.

Have a great week, and as always, let me know how it goes.

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!

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Beauty is their Lover

Feb 26

Posted by Ellen in Just for fun | 1 Comment

Hello, everyone.

Today I’m off to the NCGR conference in Boston.  So in honor of the Pluto posts this week and the great response to the Venus post of yesterday, I thought I’d offer you the entire text of the poem I excerpted in the comment to Annie B.

From St. Teresa of Avila

 

The Servant of Unity

Most men in power have not the strength or wisdom to be satisfied with the way things are.

The sane know contentment, for beauty is their lover, and beauty is never absent from this world.

The farther away light is from one’s touch the more one naturally speaks of the need for change.

Yes, overthrow any government inside that makes you weep.

The child blames the external and focuses his energies there; the warrior conquers the realms within and becomes gifted.

Only the inspired should make decisions that affect the lives of many,

Never a man who has not held God in his arms and become the servant of unity.

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Eat the Sweets

Feb 25

Posted by Ellen in Client case studies, The Planets | 8 Comments

Hello, everyone.

The other day a client told me this story.

She had recently taken a new position in management at a large local institution.  This company has been battered by recent changes in government funding and the managers are scrambling to make ends meet.  In fact, my client was hired to bring her considerable expertise into bringing financial stability to the company again.  

"Venus, Amor die Flügel beschneidend" von Theodor Heinrich Bäumer, 1886

"Venus, Amor die Flügel beschneidend" von Theodor Heinrich Bäumer, 1886

When she went to her first few management meetings, the mood was sour and dour; there was no cross-talking, no cutting up, no spark.  She noticed that even in a three-hour meeting, there was no water, no treats, and no bathroom breaks. 

This is no fun at all, she thought.  So when the next meeting was scheduled she brought in a big bowl of chocolates.  Even though the meeting was directly after lunch, not one person acknowledged the sweets, let alone reached for any.  The entire meeting passed in the manner of the others, subdued, discouraged, and unengaged.  No one could receive the gift she brought to the meeting.

What’s missing here?

When she told me this story I thought, this is a Venus issue.  Venus rules love, sweetness, happiness, pleasure, giving and receiving, and MONEY.  I’m not saying that a company’s financial difficulties can be mended by eating a few chocolates.  But I am saying that when the energy of Venus, of pleasure, of enjoyment, of camaraderie is missing, then it’s likely that MONEY will be missing too.

There is an alchemy among happiness, giving and receiving, and money.  The flow of giving and receiving underpins all of our interactions, and that same flow fuels the economy as a whole.  I wouldn’t be so concerned if just one of the managers passed up the sweets, due to a diet, or Lent, or sugar intolerance.  But when the entire team cannot receive, then there is a barrier to inflowing energy, which leads to barriers to sales, which leads to barriers to profits.

Receiving equals profits

Every salesperson knows that relationships must be developed before sales can be realized.  Relationships, sweets, money, success:  it’s all the same river, the river Venus.  If your managers can’t even look at each other in a meeting, then this is going to be reflected in your bottom line.  If there’s no laughter, no fun, no interrelationships, there’s no fuel for problem-solving or creativity.

If you are the only person in your business, this applies to you as well.  When I was first in business and struggling to make ends meet, my mentor told me to give myself a gift every day.  It could be a small thing, some post-its, a nice eraser, a piece of pie, but I had to report to her every day what I had done.  She was teaching me to receive, to open the door to the incoming flow.

Singing, playing, celebrating

The manager that told me this story has a very strong placement of Venus and is a natural at bringing people together.  I asked her for some tips on how she is going to overcome this problem.  She’s going to bring songs to the meeting for everyone to sing together.  She’s going to start a softball league so people can build relationships outside of work.  She’s going to make sure birthdays are celebrated and that there’s good coffee in the cafeteria.  In these ways, she’s going to break down the barriers to the incoming flow.

If your business is not as profitable as you wish, try appeasing the Venus energy.  If you respect and honor her, she will shower her treasures.  The next time someone offers a gift, receive it, eat the sweet.  And encourage your managers to open the receiving door, so that all sorts of goodies can flow in.

Are you good at receiving?  Or are you “receiving challenged”?  Tell us about it in the comments section and if you know what sign your Venus is in, let us know that, too.

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Astro4Business Week – February 15

Feb 14

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Week | No Comments

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

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.

Overall, a fairly easeful week unfolds with a little stress next weekend only.  Carnival, Mardi Gras, and Ash Wednesday unfold for Christians worldwide.

And if you’re reading this on Sunday, the 14th, Happy Chinese New Year!

Monday

Venetian Carnival Masks

Venetian Carnival Masks

Very early Monday morning, EST, while many of you are still sleeping, Venus and Pluto are conversing.  Go to bed the night before with a notebook by your bed, ready to record their message when you wake up.  Venus in Pisces brings creative insight, and Pluto in Capricorn can bring the practical application for a great idea.

Later Mars and Saturn get together and support you to lay the groundwork for your new plan.  Strategizing, forecasting, and business planning are all the order of the day.  Remember, though, that with Mars retrograde, you should delay the actual implementation until after March 10.

Tuesday

Fat Tuesday is a social day with grand ideas for creative projects and growth.  Venus and Jupiter join each other in Pisces.  Make connections and links with others to bring out the best in the day.  A willing sacrifice brings good fortune this week.

Thursday

The Sun enters Pisces today, the sign of the fish.  Fish around in your imagination over the next month and pull up from the depths an inspired idea to take into the coming Equinox. 

The Sun in Pisces is perfect for the unfolding Christian Lenten season which began on Wednesday, with its themes of sacrifice and retreat.  This is not wasted time; these inner excursions lead to the upsurge of energy and enthusiasm in March.

Saturday and Sunday

The Mars/Saturn aspect of last Monday connects with the Sun over this weekend, but you may feel that your great plan has hit its first obstacle.  With this placement of the Sun and planets you may feel you can’t take action and you can’t allow matters to just unfold.  The solution is to lie low this weekend and let your intuition guide you slowly but surely to the next right step.  Be patient:  the project needs some time to take shape.

Have a great week and let me know how it goes!

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!

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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)

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)

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)

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)

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! 

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Astro4Business Month Ahead – February 2010

Feb 1

Posted by Ellen in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 1 Comment

Solar_system

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!

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!

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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)

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!

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