When Mercury arrives in Capricorn on December 1st, 2023 it’s all about commitment. Each of us will feel more motivated to say what we mean and to mean what we say. This isn’t the energy of empty promises, but of living up to your responsibilities and then some.

Mercury will remain in Capricorn until February 5th, 2024 - but it will turn retrograde in Capricorn between December 13th, 2023 and January 18th, 2024.

In astrology, Mercury rules the intellect and our mental processes, so each Mercury transit through the different zodiac signs has a slightly different flavor to it. With the transit through Capricorn, thinking becomes more methodical, grounded and practical.

We’re not dealing with abstract concepts or complex fantasies – we’re dealing with the nuts and bolts of how to get from point A to point B, as quickly, efficiently and painlessly as possible. That does mean that these transits can be rather lacking in imagination and flair – but they help us get the job done.

The main problem with a Mercury in Capricorn transit is rigid thinking. Because creativity of thought takes a backseat, we tend to be inflexible and unable to consider alternative possibilities.

Highly decisive and uber-focused, this energy is great for getting on with the difficult stuff or with long-term planning – but not so great for situations that need a leap of faith.

Mercury transits reflect how we communicate with each other, and when Mercury transits Capricorn, conversations tend to be short, efficient and to the point. It’s an authoritarian style that can come across as cold or unemotional at times.

On the plus side, people are perhaps less likely to lie during this transit, so it’s easier than normal to figure out the motives of others.

Realism is the grounding foundation of both communication and thought during a Mercury in Capricorn transit. However, there’s always a fine line between pessimism and realism, so negative thinking is another possible trap for some of us during this transit.

Each Sun sign will experience the Mercury in Capricorn transit slightly differently. However, all signs will feel the urge to make serious plans and to get on with their goals.

Mercury in Capricorn for an Aries (Aries dates: March 20 – April 19)

This is a good period for business, contract negotiations, meetings, financial applications and other serious transactions and paperwork.

Be careful to act with the highest integrity at all times, Aries. You might be able to get away with doing otherwise, especially if you hold a senior position at work, but your integrity and reputation are on the line now.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Taurus (Taurus dates: April 20 – May 20)

This Mercury transit brings out the natural teacher within you, Taurus. You’ll need to stretch your mind, and this is the perfect time to sign up for a new educational course, especially if it will enhance your future prospects.

You’re open-minded and tolerant during this transit but keep in mind that your own love of debate isn’t shared by everyone!

Mercury in Capricorn for a Gemini (Gemini dates: May 21 – June 20)

Obsessive thoughts can be a feature of this Mercury transit for you, Gemini. Your new obsession may well be perfectly harmless, but it can cause problems with your focus on home, work or family matters, so keep aware so it doesn’t take over your life.

There will also be a fascination with all things weird and mysterious – and why not?

Mercury in Capricorn for a Cancer (Cancer dates: June 21 – July 21)

This Mercury transit is fantastic for negotiations or business deals, Cancer, as you are at your most charming and persuasive best.

However, it activates your house of love, so it’s in interpersonal relationships where you’ll most notice better communication. Talk honestly with your sweetheart and you’ll grow much closer together.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Leo (Leo dates: July 22 – August 21)

If anyone can handle an increased workload during this transit, it’s you, Leo. Put your awesome powers of organization to good use and streamline everything within reach.

This is likely to be an extremely busy period for you, but you like the buzz it brings. Step-by-step is the way to go, and a sense of achievement is waiting at the end of the road.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Virgo (Virgo dates: August 22 – September 21)

You can use the energy of this Mercury in Capricorn transit to better your creative or hobby skills, Virgo. Teach yourself or sign up for some training.

You’ll want to completely master any new activity, rather than just being able to get by. Since you won’t get bored easily, this is a good time to focus intently on just one area of leisure, and to become expert at it.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Libra (Libra dates: September 22 – October 22)

Family communication matters most during this Mercury transit, so do take this opportunity to stay in touch with all of your loved ones, Libra, whether or not you see one another regularly.

There also are strong connections to the past with this energy, and if you do your research you may be able to unearth fascinating themes which have continued through the generations.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Scorpio (Scorpio dates: October 23 – November 21)

Mental flexibility is key to surviving this Mercury transit with your sanity intact, Scorpio! It’s likely to be an exceptionally busy time, so your plate-spinning skills will need to be up to scratch.

As a Fixed sign, Scorpio, you tend to have tunnel vision, so it could be a struggle to deal with so many challenges at once. It will stretch your mind, but in a good way – lots to learn here.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Sagittarius (Sagittarius dates: November 22 – December 20)

Take your financial responsibilities seriously during this Mercury transit, Sagittarius. It’s time to shop around for a better deal on your credit cards, or to switch mortgage or insurance providers.

Create a budget for the coming year and work on yourself, too. You’re prone to impulse spending: What can you do to curb that in the months ahead?

Mercury in Capricorn for a Capricorn (Capricorn dates: December 21 – January 18)

When Mercury transits through your own sign, you come into your intellectual own, Capricorn. This is an excellent period to be either a student or a teacher, and your thirst for knowledge increases greatly.

Guard against being too dogmatic, however. Your view is not the only view worth considering. If you can show some of Mercury’s flexibility, you could learn a lot from other people right now.

Mercury in Capricorn for an Aquarius (Aquarius dates: January 19 – February 17)

Dreams and mediumship are much easier to pin down during this transit of Mercury. Start a dream journal and get some training in how to communicate with the spirit world, Aquarius.

Noticing synchronicities around you is a good way to start – there’s so much more going on in the cosmos than you realize, and this transit is your gateway to learning.

Mercury in Capricorn for a Pisces (Pisces dates: February 18 – March 19)

You’ll be feeling inventive during this Mercury transit, Pisces, so pay great attention to any ideas you have, especially in the tech field.

Every hugely successful business starts with a tiny fleeting concept. Innovation and communication are both key skills for you during this period, so don’t be afraid to come forward with your ideas. The world is listening.