The third and final Mercury retrograde of 2023 is almost here. (We know—we’re sick of it, too!) Mercury starts its backward journey on December 13 in serious Capricorn, slides into free-wheeling Sagittarius on December 23, and finally starts moving forward again on January 1.
You’ve probably heard all the standard advice about Mercury retrograde: avoid travel, don’t send that spicy text, wait until later to take any big risks. It feels like all the guidance is about what not to do.
But we can’t all crawl into a hole for two weeks while the planet of communication acts up. Some of us have deadlines, demanding jobs, things to do and places to be. Some of us are trying to date out here!
The good news is that it is completely possible to flirt, date, even fall in love during Mercury retrograde. You may, however, want to make a few adjustments to your MO. Never fear: we’ve got you covered. Read on.
Aries
Have you ever gone out with someone who won’t stop bragging about their high-flying career, fancy degree, or famous friends? It’s no fun at all, so don’t be that person! Mercury retrograde may convince you that you need to show off, but don’t listen! Your goal is to connect, not impress.
Taurus
If you’re the one planning the dates right now, don’t make things too complicated! The more elaborate your plans, the more possibilities there are for things to go wrong (Plus, it might get distracting for both of you.) Keeping it simple is your best bet this Mercury retrograde.
Gemini
Over the next couple weeks, you might get a little nosy, especially with your crushes and dates. It comes from a good place—you want to get to know the person!—but it might come across as pushy or prying. Don’t try to go too deep, too fast: let the romance unfold at its own pace.
Cancer
This Mercury retrograde makes it easy for you to convince yourself that you’re totally into someone…when the reality is that you only want to like them. Your job is to be honest with yourself: if the spark isn’t there, it isn’t there. Keep it moving! There are plenty of other people out there!
Leo
You’ll save yourself a lot of frustration right now if you go into things expecting some level of miscommunication. Not about the important stuff, but wires will get crossed regarding dates, times, and details of your plans. Try to be understanding! Small mix-ups don’t mean the person doesn’t like you!
Virgo
It’s possible right now that you’ll meet someone, find them cute, enjoy their company, but then realize that your senses of humor just totally don’t mesh well together. Pay attention to this! It matters! (On the flip side, if your senses of humor do match, you can trust that it’s real!)
Libra
This might sound a little fussy, but trust us: this retrograde probably isn’t the best time to bring your date over to your house or introduce them to your family. Keeping these parts of your life separate at this stage will make it a lot easier for you to enjoy your dating life!
Scorpio
Over the next couple weeks, you may find that flirting over text—no matter how fun and steamy, or how much of a connection you feel—just doesn’t translate to real-world romance. If possible, make sure to spend time together in person before getting in too deep with anyone new.
Sagittarius
Right now, Mercury is encouraging you to spend way (way, way) too much money! So it’s important to be thoughtful—especially when you’re dating. Don’t spend too much on somebody you’re just getting to know—focusing on quality time together, not money or fancy dates, is the better way to find the connection you’re looking for.
Capricorn
Since this Mercury retrograde starts off in your own home sign, Capricorn, insecurity and poor self-image could really scramble your mind right now. Remind yourself that you have so much to offer. You deserve a supportive, fun romance that makes you feel good! Don’t settle for less.
Aquarius
Some people have an annoying tendency to overshare—but during this retrograde, you may have an under-sharing problem. Your date can’t fall in love with you if they don’t even know you! So, make an extra effort to open up and let your ideas, emotions, and personality shine through.
Pisces
During this retrograde, you may find yourself planning your wedding with your crush—before anything’s even happened between the two of you! Keep both feet on the ground and take things one step at a time. Forget about the future for now and enjoy the present.