How Mercury Retrograde Affects Your Work Day

Have you ever heard people blaming the smallest and innermost planet in the solar system for bad things happening in their lives? Poor lil’ Mercury. The truth is: this planet’s movements are believed to influence all forms of communication and travel here on Earth. But, three times a year Mercury appears to move backwards from our earthly vantage point. This time is called Mercury retrograde. And when the planet that rules your comms is out of whack, things can get a little cray. Heads up: in 2021, Mercury retrograde is happening January 30 to February 20, May 29 to June 22 and September 27 to October 18. So what does it mean for your workday when the planet of communication decides to take a nap?

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Travel

The pandemic has restricted travel for us, so this shouldn't be a huge issue for many Canadians. But if you have an absolutely necessary trip planned during Mercury retrograde, give yourself some extra time to catch that train or flight, as Mercury’s backwards motion can impact travel times and schedules. Double-check any reservation details too.

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Commute

Still have to go into the work? Similarly, build in some extra time for your regular daily commute. Does your usual subway ride or bike route only take 20 minutes? Something is bound to happen (subway closures, bike lane reroute, etc.) that will have you cursing retrograde.

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Contracts

Avoid signing any new business contracts during Mercury retrograde. Since communication is in confusion during this time, the contract/agreement could unravel in time. If you’re in a hiring position at work, hold off on bringing a new employee on board during this haywire communication period.

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Automobiles

Do you rely on a vehicle for work? Whether you drive to work or your livelihood is dependent on an automobile (think Lyft driver, paramedic, firefighter, police officer, etc.) be on the lookout for unexpected issues or breakdowns. Make sure your car has been serviced and you have a CAA membership.

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Technology

When computers crash, email is down or your phone is on the fritz, check the calendar to see if you’re in retrograde. Take a deep breath and restrain yourself from your laptop out the window (been there). Double-check email responses, back up files on your computer, bring your phone charger with you.

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Business relationships

Avoid building any new business relationships, as miscommunication is a common occurrence during Mercury retrograde. Try rescheduling networking events or coffee dates with potential clients if you can.

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New projects

Ready to launch that new project at work? It’s totally OK to review and plan during this time, but wait until our little baby planet is moving in the right direction again before you make any final decisions.

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Big decisions

Do you have a big career decision to make? Whether it’s a promotion, new job, career pivot, etc., give yourself some thinking time. Retrograde is a great time to reflect, but refrain from any radical changes.

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Communication

You can’t stop all forms of communication during Mercury retrograde, of course. Just be prepared for angry people and miscommunication. Take extra precaution when communicating with co-workers to avoid any disputes.

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Personal relationships

Sometimes personal relationships impact our professional lives. Don’t be surprised if during retrograde you get an annoying text from an ex or a random phone call from your grandma in the middle of your workday. You can just blame it on Mercury.