ARIES HOROSCOPE

You really are as on edge as people say. It's bad enough you're feeling irritable; what makes it even worse is that it shows. You hate that, but you might as well cop to it. What else are you going to do with Venus forming an opposition to retrograde Mars on December 12th? Trust that this energy will pass, but in the meantime, be proactive rather than provocative. Avoid people you know will work your last nerve, politely decline “what's going on?” conversations, and vent frustrations at the gym. Aries isn't a sign that likes to talk about its anxieties. That's what punching bags are for.

Forget about making any headway over the next eleven weeks. Ruling Planet Mars turning retrograde on December 6th shows that the life path that seemed so straightforward weeks ago will now become a long and winding road. Moreover, there's no guarantee that following it will amount to anything. The easy answer would be to blame Fate for your troubles. And that might even be the case, but success isn't served on a silver platter. Like Fortune, it depends on what you make of it. Make the most of what you have to work with, and you will wind up making progress of a different kind.

Mercury turns retrograde on November 25th, and along with it will go any hopes of being singled out for a job well done, rewarded for your efforts, or lauded for your talents. It's a little disappointing (not to mention dispiriting), but the truth is that supervisors have their noses pressed to the grindstone these days and are far too busy racing to keep up with deadlines to notice anyone else. Keep hurt feelings to yourself and wait until December 15th when Mercury resumes direction. This is when everyone will be in a much better frame of mind and more generous with their praise and appreciation.

Did someone get wind of you thinking about moving on? Evidently, they did. Either that, or they suddenly developed telepathic powers. Don't be surprised when a boss calls you into his office to discuss future plans on November 21st. He won't be telling you what he expects as much as he'll be asking you about what you'd like to do. His vision of your relationship promises to be creative, collaborative, and one where you get more say-so. It's all kinds of exciting, but is it enough to make you want to stay put? Don't answer just yet because there are more outside offers to come.

It's ironic that you should be cast in the role of peacekeeper, but you're the only one whom feuding parties will listen to. You have firsthand experience with people under pressure and know how to talk them down from the ledges they've climbed onto. This is a side of Aries that doesn't get enough recognition. You have a unique ability to keep both your cool and wit under pressure while showing those who are ready to give up that they really do have what it takes to surmount one more obstacle. Showcase these wonderful attributes this week and be the calm in everyone's storm.

Your ruling planet, Mars, enters Leo this week. Normally associated with conflicts and strife, Mars takes on a more commanding air when traveling through the zodiac sign of the lion. In fact, all you have to do is indicate that you want something, and people will rush to get it for you. They may even let you cut in line, offer up that last slice of cake, or gift you a piece of clothing, saying it looks better on you anyway. This isn't something that usually happens, so it will take some getting used to. Mars will be in Leo from November 3rd until January 6th.

Have you gone soft? That’s the question you’ll be asking when your ruling planet, Mars, in Cancer forms a trine to Neptune in Pisces on October 28th. Mars energy loses its edge and its bite under the watery influence of the planet named after the Roman god of the seas. Grudges lose their shape, anger its fury, and even the unforgivable seems pardonable. That’s because Neptune opens your heart to the flowing streams of empathy, sympathy, and compassion. It’s a little disconcerting, but you’ll find that feeling other people’s pain gives you a unique glimpse into their souls. It enriches and deepens your world.

A leader is only as good as the people she surrounds herself with. That said, you still won't like being crossed by someone you mentored and supported in their career. Indeed, this person’s continual disagreement is starting to feel like a betrayal. But take a couple of steps back and ask yourself why you're so bothered by this. Didn't you say you wanted to only work with people who would tell it like it is? The difference between an ally and a yes-man is their willingness to say no to you. Hear this person out. They may be saving you from an impending fiasco.

A heated exchange on October 14th could put at risk everything you've built. It's understandable that you would feel angry and hurt, but this is not the time to lose your temper—no matter how justified you would be. Your ruling planet Mars is often portrayed as rash and impulsive, but those aren't its only qualities. Mars is just as likely to exhibit fortitude in the face of adversity and self-restraint when it is most under fire. Key into these strengths. Not only will they safeguard your interests in the days ahead, but they'll get you to the other side of the gauntlet you face.

The nature of your friendships is changing. It began months ago when you started hanging with a new group of people, and it culminates this week when a disagreement with the old crowd creates a rift that makes you feel torn. You've gone back and forth on this a number of times, so maybe it's time to say good-bye? It’s hard to accept that we can outgrow people just like we can outgrow a set of clothes, but these things happen. You need to be with people who really get you, people who recognize and support the changes that are taking place in your life.