Venus is retrograde from October 3 (8 Scorpio) to November 13 (22 Libra), 2026.
The gift of knowing astrology is that it helps you take advantage of potent celestial energies. But during retrogrades, even the best-laid plans are easily overturned. The power in these periods lies elsewhere—in the unconscious. So even better than having a “Venus retrograde agenda” is to wait attentively. Wait for your Venus to start rumbling, like a volcano about to erupt.
During the retrograde weeks, there will likely come a morning, an afternoon, or a weekend when you find yourself at a breaking point. You can’t stand it. Your life just isn’t fun. You’re disappointed. You’re angry. You’re overwhelmed. You’re lonely. Whatever it is, listen. And don’t just listen: give your Venus a pen (or a keyboard) and let her go to town. Ask her to articulate everything. All the unmet desires and needs. Make a long list. An impassioned list. Start each sentence with “I want.” (“I want more attention, I want more money, I want Greg to hold and kiss me, I want time to do my thing…”)
From Complaints to Diamonds
Save this list. Put it someplace special. Later, take it out and have a look. It’s a field of rough gems. Your complaints suggest your rawest needs for pleasure. The words may be a little rough or even childish—but the passion is true. Now it’s up to you to start cultivating. Cut and polish these rough gems into diamonds. Use these clues to bring more pleasure into your daily life. (If you’re magically minded, keep a copy of The Empress card nearby and let your eyes gaze upon it often.)
Venus is the sweetness and ease in your life. She’s all about your fun. During her retrograde weeks, your inner Venus is prowling for more pleasure. But be aware: she’s in the underworld. As with all retrogrades, the energy may be unconscious and somewhat unstable. Sudden infatuations may be regretted later. The trick is to listen to what Venus wants without rushing to give it to her. Here are five things to watch out for:
The Five Venus Retrograde No-No’s
- Don’t rush into a new relationship. Romantic or business, the attraction may be irresistible—but what exactly are you falling for? During Venus retrograde, it’s easy to project your unmet desires onto someone who seems to promise everything you’ve been missing. Enjoy the attraction. Just give it time to reveal itself.
- Don’t make a permanent decision based on a passing unhappiness. Your Venus may be restless, irritable, or suddenly convinced she’s been settling for crumbs. She might be right! But ending a relationship isn’t always the answer. Unless waiting would cause harm, give yourself time to understand what really needs to change.
- Don’t assume the past is calling you back for a reunion. Old lovers, friends, and unfinished relationships have a way of resurfacing during Venus retrograde. Sometimes they bring a second chance. Sometimes they’re simply reminding you of an old pattern you’re finally ready to outgrow. Before reopening the door, ask yourself what you really want from the encounter.
- Don’t confuse wanting something with needing to buy it. That gorgeous sofa, irresistible bargain, or promising investment may look like the answer to your dissatisfaction. But Venus retrograde can scramble our sense of value. Research carefully, especially before making major purchases or financial commitments. Sometimes the real desire has nothing to do with the object.
- Don’t try to fix an inner dissatisfaction with an outer makeover. A new wardrobe, dramatic haircut, or cosmetic procedure may seem like just the thing to revive your spirits. Experiment, play, rediscover old favorites—but postpone expensive or irreversible changes if you can. The woman who emerges from Venus retrograde may have very different ideas about beauty.
Rediscover what makes you happy! My Venus Unleashed report dives deeply into your Venus nature–your patterns in love, what makes you beautiful, and the pleasures you may have forgotten to claim. A perfect read for Venus retrograde: order here!
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