As Venus moves out of retrograde on Nov. 16, the stars bless us with yet another retrograde. This one is a bit more popular: Mercury. This retrograde begins Nov. 17 and ends Dec. 6.

When a planet goes into retrograde, it gives the appearance of moving backwards, causing all things which that planet controls to become strained.

When Mercury goes into retrograde, it’s more common to hear people blaming their misfortunes on poor, sweet Mercury. But what does this three week period actually entail?

Mercury is ruled by Gemini and Virgo, and controls communication and the way we process and express our ideas. It is how we make decisions and rationalize choices. When Mercury goes into retrograde, the aspects that Mercury controls become more difficult to express.

During this retrograde, the difficulty of communication may lead to conflict. Your ability to make stable decisions is clouded during this time, so it is advisable to avoid any binding agreements or contracts. Relationships beginning in a retrograde may not last long, as you will see your significant other’s true colors as Mercury moves back into regular orbit.

With this retrograde beginning in Sagittarius, this is a time to reflect on how you can express your ideas more honestly and expansively, but without blowing things out of proportion. As it moves into Scorpio, use that time to ask big questions, and deal with deeply rooted issues that you may have with others or within yourself.

If traveling, expect flight delays. Have patience when loved ones are late to events. Use this time to find new ways to solve conflicts and communicate, and take time to self-reflect on mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. Good riddance to it as Venus moves out of retrograde, and may we all survive this Mercury retrograde together.