What to Do During Mercury Retrograde: Dos & Don'ts
June 16, 2026 · 5 min read
Mercury retrograde isn't a time to hide under the duvet — it's just a time to work with the energy instead of against it. Here's a simple dos-and-don'ts guide.
Do: the “re-” words
Retrograde favours anything beginning with “re-”: review, revise, reflect, reconnect, repair, research and rest. It's an excellent window to finish old projects, tidy up loose ends, reconnect with people from your past and revisit decisions you rushed.
Do: double-check everything
Back up your devices, confirm appointments and travel, read contracts twice, and re-read messages before sending. A little extra care prevents most of the classic retrograde mishaps.
Don't: launch or sign
Tradition advises against starting major new ventures, signing important contracts, or buying expensive electronics and vehicles during the retrograde, as these are prone to delays and changes. If you can wait until Mercury goes direct, do.
Don't: make big assumptions
With communication scrambled, this isn't the time to assume the worst from a vague text or make irreversible decisions in the heat of a misunderstanding. Ask for clarity before reacting.
Mostly: stay calm
Mercury retrograde is three weeks, not the apocalypse. Used well, it's genuinely productive — a built-in pause to slow down, reflect and clear the decks before the next push forward. Check whether it's active right now and plan accordingly.
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