From September 18th to October 6th, Mercury moves through Libra. When the planet of communication enters the sign of flirting and schmoozing, it swaps our megaphones for perfumed thank-you notes, and every interaction becomes a potential crash course in diplomacy. If you’re having a conversation that requires a little extra tact, don’t underestimate the power of a few strategic compliments.

Sending your message with just the right tone and timing is your wisest move over the coming weeks. So smooth over any bumpy disagreements in the group chat, translate the tension into understanding, and make your point with style. Whether you’re mediating a conflict with a roommate or drafting the perfect text to say you actually do have a boundary, Mercury in Libra will help you keep the peace without sacrificing your integrity — a delicate balance, but you’re up to the task.

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Clarity can be kind

At its best, Mercury in Libra helps us bridge gaps — between people, points of view, and parts of ourselves that we’ve been struggling to reconcile. But before you start acting like the main character in a courtroom drama, keep in mind that not everything has to be a debate. Assessing every side of a situation is great for writing an essay or crafting an argument, but it can be counterproductive when you end up spiraling over what to order for dinner or which emoji to send your crush. So notice when your decision-making gets stalled by endless considering, reconsidering, and wondering how to avoid offending anyone in the process.

Grace and sensitivity are key, but don’t let these qualities morph into people-pleasing at the expense of your own needs. Remember: It’s not unkind to say no. If you catch yourself softening a critique for the sake of someone else’s comfort or saying “it’s fine” when it absolutely isn’t fine, pause. In all your social connections, aim for honesty — the kind that honors both your own perspective and your audience’s ability to accept it. The truth isn’t always comfortable, but when delivered with compassion, it’s a gift.

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As Mercury moves through Virgo from September 2nd to September 18th, prepare to get your geek on. The planet of analysis and communication is right at home in Virgo’s queendom. Mercury is also exalted in this mutable earth sign, meaning it has all the resources it needs to thrive here. Think: a fresh supply of the sharpest pencils and smoothest pens. Take this opportunity to explore your nerdiest interests to your heart’s content, and fall down some research rabbit holes while you’re at it. This attentive sign loves the fine print, the footnotes, and all the little details in between. So renew your library card, annotate your recipes, and polish your spreadsheets until they sparkle.

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Calling all overthinkers

Virgo can get a bad rap for nitpicking, but there’s a reason for this sign’s tendency to focus on flaws. With every spelling correction and spontaneous fact-checking session, the perfectionist of the zodiac inches closer and closer to approaching its ideals. But if you don’t read the room before expressing your critiques, you might just come across as needlessly judgmental. So give others extra grace when they make mistakes, since the best way to learn and grow is often through trial and error. And notice any situations where you’re overly harsh with yourself. You don’t need to fret about every awkward pause or clunky sentence. Achieving excellence is a never-ending process, so keep it moving. Mercury in Virgo understands that even the smallest efforts can help us reach the finish line.

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From June 26th to September 2nd, Mercury — the planet of communication — moves through Leo. This fixed fire sign is known for its bravery, its brashness, and its tendency to act a little pouty when it’s ignored. And why not? The lion of the zodiac teaches us that it’s not a bad thing to wear your heart on your sleeve and ask for what you want. When Mercury is here, it pays to express your ideas boldly and assertively. Over the coming weeks, the messenger planet is offering extra oomph to help you get your point across and reach a receptive audience — as long as you’re willing to take the risk of putting yourself out there.

If you usually keep your thoughts to yourself, this is your opportunity to find out what happens when you say what you mean and mean what you say. And if you’re not shy about offering your opinion or seeking attention, Mercury in Leo is here to remind you that you don’t need constant feedback to prove that people take you seriously. Working with this transit is a matter of give-and-take: Don’t be afraid to claim the spotlight, but remember to share the mic.

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Mercury retrograde: Time to rewind

Then Mercury stations retrograde from July 17th to August 11th. Yes, all the usual Mercury retrograde hygiene tips and tricks apply. (Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need! Triple-check your calendar for accidental double-bookings! Back up your files! Laugh at your mistakes!) But this period also invites you to reflect on the times you’ve censored yourself or underplayed your talents. To reconnect with the younger versions of you that got overwhelmed by butterflies or worried about being “too much.” And to give yourself permission to take up space and shine as brightly as possible. This is your chance to rethink how you want to take center stage. It’s never too late for your close-up.

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