Mercury is currently in retrograde for the fourth time in 2016. What does this mean exactly? According to astrologists, because Mercury controls communication, when it goes into retrograde it appears to be moving backwards. In an article published on AstrologyZone, Elizabeth Miller writes, "Mercury is the planet situated closest to the Sun, its orbit is much shorter than Earth’s. About three or four times a year, Mercury speeds past Earth, and that is when we experience a Mercury retrograde period."

What does this all mean for us? The planet of communication is essentially passing Earth more quickly than we are used to. So things in your life can start to seem weird, make you feel uneasy, and basically sabotage your entire life (ok, that may be a little dramatic, but it's rough).

Here is how to handle Mercury in retrograde according to your zodiac sign:

Aires - Chill out. Normally Aires is frazzled, but this is a time to absorb the energy that is moving backwards and calm down. Choose your words carefully and listen even more carefully.

Taurus - You are great with money, but during retrograde, take a step back from banking matters and make sure your decisions are in order.

Gemini - Retrograde might actually be attacking Gemini's personally. Gemini's rule communication... and so does Mercury, so things will be off for a while. Expect to lose things like mail or phone numbers, and don't take anything too personally during this time. Learn to let go and forgive.

Cancer - Expect to be forever annoyed with any in-home project you choose to start while Mercury appears to move backwards. Try not to start any new DIY projects, and focus on completing one that you've already begun.

Leo - You're probably going to argue a lot during this time, and lose. So focus on other things, like using your wisdom to help your friends and family.

Virgo - While you're normally known to have a bit of OCD, you should let that go during retrograde. Try not to control everything in the workplace, and let coworkers attitude's go. This will all end soon

Libra - No makeovers. You represent beauty and grace, but this is not the time to beautify yourself. Stay at home with some Lush masks and a box of wine until the planets are back in sync.

Scorpio - You make some emotionally driven decisions, but your emotions cannot be trusted while in retrograde, so pay attention and be as rational as possible.

Sagittarius - Travel and scheduling delays are to be expected, you've gotta let it go and laugh about it.

Capricorn - Try to focus on getting away, spending time with family, and do not focus on business endeavors. They are bound to go terribly wrong during this time.

Aquarius - While you typically rule relationships, yours may be at risk in retrograde. Be mindful of your words and how they affect your loved ones. Friendships and romantic relationships can go down the drain right before your eyes.

Pisces - This is a time to channel your creative energy into something productive. While you do not normally have much creativity in your blood, now is the time to find it. It will help clear your head of anxieties.

Although this period of retrograde ends soon,early in the morning of January 8th, 2017, beware of the rest of 2017 and the future dates when Mercury is planning to ruin your life: April 9th-May 3rd, August 12th-September 5th, December 3rd-December 22nd.