Mercury Retrograde in Leo: Pause the Drama

Starting tomorrow, July 18th, Mercury goes retrograde in Leo, which means this one’s got some fire and flair. Leo is the sign that wants to be seen. It’s bold, dramatic, full of passion and pride. But when Mercury - the planet of communication, technology and travel - spins backward through this fire sign, it’s not the time to make a scene.

Instead? Rest. Reflect. Reconsider. Slow down before you send the text, make the phone call, or post that crazy rant.

This retrograde might stir up old flames (literally and emotionally). You might be tempted to reach out to your ex, or maybe they show up in your DMs like a ghost with unfinished business. My advice? Do NOT respond to or text that ex until you’ve had time to breathe. Leo energy is impulsive, but this retrograde is asking us to pause, not pounce.

You might feel the urge to roar...But maybe, just maybe, this is a time to shut the f*ck up and shine from within. See, Leo rules the ego, but it also rules the heart. And these show us contrast within ourselves. That means your pride might get poked, your feelings might get fired up, but it’s all a chance to grow. When you feel that ego bruise, ask yourself: What’s really getting triggered here? What story are you telling yourself? Because Mercury retrograde is a masterclass in perception. It’s not about reacting…it’s about reflecting.

The Universe is asking you to STFU and reevaluate how you see things. If you’ve been wondering Where am I going? What’s next? this is the moment to evaluate. Not decide. Just evaluate. Try on a few different lenses. You’ll be amazed how many angles there are when you stop staring from only one (usually your ego).

Also... this goes for paperwork, contracts, messages, and anything that leaves your hands or inbox: Double-check everything. Triple-check it. Again, Leo is impulsive and Mercury retrograde loves a technicality, a typo, or a forgotten clause. If you must sign something, have someone else read it too. Preferably someone who isn’t in the throes of Leo-level drama.

This retrograde is a call to lead yourself with heart, not ego. Let your inner light shine through reflection, not reaction. You don’t need to roar right now and just remember who you are.

Here is a basic guide for survival for when Mercury is retrograde:

1. Check, recheck and check again all words and recipients to any message you want to send out.

2. Reflect and reevaluate all things that are not serving your highest and best.

3. Avoid the people that trigger you the most.

4. If you must travel, leave yourself extra time and buy travel insurance.

5. Practice 'the pause' and STFU

6. Finish that project you started.

7. Back up your computer and all files.

8. Don't blame Mercury for shit that you should take responsibility for!

And a few extra for this Leo Mercury:

9. Pause before pouncing.

10. Leo wants you to roar, but this retrograde wants you to shhhh and reflect.

11. Don't text that ex!!

12. Don't let your ego drag you into the drama.

13. Don't take shit personally, because it's not always about you. In fact, it's so not about you.