How December’s Mercury retrograde will affect your relationships

It’s officially that time of year again – here’s how Mercury retrograde will impact your relationships this December.

It’s officially that time of year again – Mercury retrograde!

Mercury, the planet of trickery, can cause quite a stir during its retrograde orbit. It’s been known to affect travel plans, with unexpected delays, cause electronic devices to cease working, and result in crossed wires over text and email. This is because Mercury is associated with all forms of communication – the words we speak, the information we consume and our approach to change. So, it’s likely no surprise that it can create turbulence in our relationships when its orbit is in disarray. Miscommunication isn’t uncommon in everyday life, so imagine the mix-ups this could cause to your love life during this time.

Mercury will be retrograding from December 13, 2023 to January 2, 2024, starting this cycle in the pragmatic earth sign of Capricorn before moving into the fiery and passionate sign of Sagittarius. The good news is, Mercury retrograde isn’t all that bad; you just need to know how to use it to your advantage.

Mercury is in retrograde between December 13, 2023 and January 2, 2024.

Communication Challenges

Have you ever shared something with someone and it’s been received in a completely different way than how you intended? There’s so much nuance between what we say, what we mean and how it’s received, so it’s best to keep this in mind over the next few weeks. Mercury will spend half of its retrograde cycle in Capricorn before transiting into Sagittarius, prompting varied communication challenges.

Firstly, Capricorn urges a straightforward approach and invites us to be careful and considerate with our words. However, it can also prompt pessimistic thinking, so be mindful if you start seeing the glass as half empty rather than half full. On the other hand, Sagittarius is candid in nature and normally leans towards the optimistic side of life. But when these energies collide, it points to a bluntness in communication. It’s best to balance honesty with sensitivity to avoid unintentionally hurting others’ feelings. If you find yourself on the receiving end of miscommunication, practice patience and seek clarification, fostering an open dialogue to ensure understanding and harmony in your interactions.

Now is a good time to review what you want from your long-term commitments.

Reevaluating Commitments

It’s a good time to reassess shared responsibilities and expectations within your relationships, whether with business colleagues, co-workers, lovers, friends or family. The Astrology of 2024 continues to usher in changes in our most significant relationships, so this period will likely bring to light insights as you review what you want from your long-term commitments. Your future aspirations are at the heart of this cycle, so self-reflection questions will aid in your personal growth. Here are some questions to consider:

• What do I expect from my relationships and do these expectations match my values and long-term desires?

• Looking back at my relationships this year, what have I learned and are there things I need to address or change?

• How can my current commitments help me grow personally and align with where I want to go in the future?

If you’re a Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn or Sagittarius, be more diligent during this time. Picture: iStock

Resolving Past Issues

Nostalgia and a longing for the past often become prominent themes during Mercury retrograde. This is a time when unresolved feelings may surface and a desire to reconnect with someone from the past could emerge. If you’re single, you might find yourself in a situation where clarity is sought, either by reaching out to an old flame or unexpectedly hearing from one. If addressing past misunderstandings can pave the way for progress, don’t hesitate to speak your truth. However, it’s crucial to bear in mind that old wounds may resurface and some matters are best left buried in the past.

For those in a relationship, consider this as an opportunity to address any lingering issues with a fresh perspective. Use this time to wipe the slate clean, allowing both of you to step into the new year with a focus on building a solid foundation for the relationship.

Overall, this time highlights the importance of our needs in a relationship and also the needs of others. It calls for patience and reflection when we decide to pick up the phone or before we hit send on an email.

If you’re a Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn or Sagittarius, be more diligent during this time as you’ll be affected by Mercury retrograde more than the rest of the zodiac.

Kristy Gray is an Astrologer who helps you attain your desires using the power of your stars. Through her signature formula, Astrostrategy®, Kristy combines essential tools, profound insights, and empowering actions to help you gain momentum and step into your potential. Ready to explore astrology for deeper self-exploration? Your celestial initiation starts here.

Originally published as How December’s Mercury retrograde will affect your relationships