Mercury in Sagittarius

Embrace the optimism, but keep your facts straight

Mercury in Sagittarius means that our conversations and thought patterns can lean more toward the philosophical now. Find out what to expect from this planet in this sign (where it will stay through December 5), and use it to adjust your attitude for the holidays!

Astrologers and amateurs alike should always be sure to keep track of Mercury, the planet that rules communication, intellect and technology. That's because more than any other planet, Mercury has a lot of bearing on how we think and how we relate to other people … in other words, it has a lot to say about our interpersonal relationships! Those in the know pay special attention to where Mercury's hanging out in the zodiac, because each sign's specific "personality" traits can filter the way we express ourselves and even our thought processes!

Fire sign Sagittarius is the Archer of the zodiac, so its aim (and eye!) is always on the heavens -- it is the sign of the zodiac most closely associated with spirituality and religion -- so Sagittarius is all about considering the heavy questions, like "What is our life purpose?" and "Is there a higher power?" This puts it at odds with Mercury, the planet of information, details and fact-checking. Here, we have "big picture" versus "close analysis," so when these two influences combine, we may notice that we tend to exaggerate the facts, and we run the risk of promising more than we can deliver.

Also, we may find ourselves or those we're close to being more blunt, even stinging, in tone. That's because Mercury is already the "chatty" planet, and sociable, impulsive Sagittarius is known for being outspoken, so these two factors combined can make for some pretty opinionated speech!

At the same time, Sagittarius is an extremely upbeat sign, since it always has a great sense of perspective and views the world as an endless source of wonder. With this happy, awestruck sign holding sway over our thoughts, we can look forward to a surge in optimism. If you've felt weighed down by minor daily stresses, now is the time to shake yourself free, look at the bright side and feel refreshed. As we head into the holiday season, "count your blessings" won't be just another saying – it can be your new focus! And if you feel a flood of gratitude or affection, Mercury in Sagittarius encourages you not to hold back -- tell your loved ones how you feel!