Retrogrades: Rethinking Your Strategy
- Jami Brewer
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 5
When a retrograde hits, it can feel like life is working against us—plans fall through, communication breaks down, and unexpected delays force us to slow down.
But what if these disruptions weren’t obstacles, but opportunities?
What is a Retrograde?
Astrologically, a retrograde occurs when a planet appears to move backward in the sky. While it’s not actually reversing, its energy shifts inward, urging us to reassess and recalibrate. Instead of fighting against retrogrades, we can use them strategically—to reflect, course-correct, and refine our approach.
Rather than seeing retrogrades as cosmic roadblocks, think of them as periods of review that help us realign with what actually feels right.
Why Do People Reach Out During Retrogrades?
Ever noticed how old friends, exes, or even past clients seem to reappear during retrogrades? It’s not a coincidence. Retrogrades stir up unresolved emotions, unfinished conversations, and patterns we may have ignored.
People reach out during retrogrades for a few reasons:
Unfinished business – Mercury retrograde, in particular, reopens communication loops, making people revisit past conversations or relationships.
Reflection & nostalgia – Venus retrograde can bring up romantic or financial regrets, leading people to reconnect with those they associate with those memories.
Seeking closure – Retrogrades create emotional clarity, and sometimes that means tying up loose ends.
Feeling energetically off-balance – Many feel unsettled or uncertain during retrogrades and instinctively seek comfort in familiar connections.
Consider:
If someone reaches out, what’s the deeper reason? Are they genuinely reconnecting, or just revisiting the past for comfort?
If you feel the urge to reach out, is it for closure, clarity, or a pattern repeating itself?
How to Rethink Your Approach During a Retrograde
1. Let Yourself Pause & Reflect
In our fast-paced world, we rarely stop to question whether we’re on the right path. Retrogrades force us to slow down and reconsider things we may have overlooked. Mercury retrograde, for example, may bring back old conversations or projects, offering a chance to see them from a fresh perspective.
Consider:
Are there choices you’ve made that don’t feel quite right anymore?
What themes keep resurfacing, asking for your attention?
2. Revisit & Refine, Rather Than Push Forward
Retrogrades are a time for revision, not acceleration. Maybe a relationship dynamic needs nurturing, a creative idea needs more development, or an old plan is calling for a new approach. Venus retrograde, for instance, might have you reconsidering your values in love and money, while Mars retrograde may ask you to be more intentional with your energy.
Consider:
Are you pushing forward out of habit, or does it still feel aligned?
What adjustments could make things flow more naturally?
3. Welcome What Resurfaces
Ever noticed how past situations tend to come back during retrogrades? Whether it’s an old friend, a lingering project, or an unresolved emotion, these moments aren’t random—they’re invitations. Instead of brushing them off, take a moment to acknowledge them.
Consider:
What is this situation reminding you of?
Is there closure needed, or is it a chance to see something differently?
4. Listen to Your Intuition More Closely
Retrogrades pull us inward, making it easier to hear our own inner wisdom. Instead of trying to force answers, allow them to come naturally. This is a great time to journal, meditate, or simply observe what insights arise when you stop trying to control the outcome.
Consider:
What has your intuition been nudging you toward?
If you weren’t afraid of slowing down, what would feel most natural right now?
Work With the Energy, Not Against It
Retrogrades aren’t here to make life harder—they’re here to help us pause, reflect, and return with more clarity. Instead of seeing them as frustrating delays, try embracing them as a necessary reset. Sometimes, the best strategy isn’t about doing more—it’s about giving yourself space to see things differently.
Have you ever had a retrograde shift your perspective in an unexpected way? Share your experience in the comments!
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