On November 9, 2025, Mercury stations retrograde at 6°51’ Sagittarius. Nineteen days later, on November 29, 2025, it moves direct at 20°42’ Scorpio. That’s nearly three weeks of classic Mercury retrograde curveballs, but also hidden opportunities if you know how to work with the energy.
What Makes This Retrograde Unique
Every Mercury retrograde has its own personality, depending on the signs it moves through. This one begins in Sagittarius, the truth-teller of the zodiac, and ends in Scorpio, the deep diver.
That means the first half of the retrograde may stir up bold statements, impulsive decisions, and “foot-in-mouth” moments. Sagittarius wants to speak now and think later — not exactly Mercury retrograde’s best friend.
The second half? That’s Scorpio territory — intense, private, and sometimes a little suspicious. Here, conversations get deeper. Secrets can surface. You may find yourself revisiting old emotions or uncovering information that changes your perspective.
What It Means Globally
On a collective level, expect themes around international matters, travel, law, and truth to dominate early in the cycle. We may see debates about ethics, shifting alliances, or big revelations in the news.
As Mercury backs into Scorpio, attention could turn toward finance, security, hidden dealings, and investigations. Things that were glossed over before may now demand a closer look.
What It Means Personally
For individuals, this retrograde can bring two very different types of experiences:
- Sagittarius phase (Nov 9–19): Miscommunications linked to travel, education, publishing, or cultural differences. Watch for speaking too bluntly or making assumptions without checking the facts.
- Scorpio phase (Nov 20–29): Deeper emotional conversations, revisiting past relationships, or confronting a truth you’ve avoided. Boundaries and trust issues may surface.
Your personal chart will show where this retrograde lands for you, and that’s where you’ll feel it most.
What to Do (and Avoid)

DO:
- Back up devices, double-check travel plans, and re-read important emails before sending.
- Revisit unfinished projects instead of launching big new ones.
- Reflect before reacting — especially in heated conversations.
- Be open to new insights from the past.
AVOID:
- Signing major contracts without reviewing the fine print twice.
- Making impulsive financial or travel decisions.
- Assuming someone “meant” what you think they did — clarify instead.
- Oversharing private matters (Scorpio energy can turn that into gossip quickly).
- Talking about religion or trying to convince someone of your beliefs.
The Protective Side of Mercury Retrograde
We often focus on the inconveniences, but Mercury retrograde is also protective in its own way. It slows things down so you don’t rush into choices you’ll regret.
If something gets delayed or falls through during this period, it might actually be saving you from a bad deal, a poor decision, or an unready situation.
Why This Retrograde Could Feel Intense
The Sagittarius-to-Scorpio shift isn’t just a sign change — it’s a mood change. Sagittarius is fire, fast-moving, and bold. Scorpio is water, still, and penetrating.
That’s like going from an open campfire to a deep, dark lake. You might start the retrograde feeling frustrated about delays or communication snags, and end it with a much more introspective, private, even transformative vibe.
Your Personal Navigation Plan
- During the first week: Watch your words and don’t overcommit. Sagittarius retrogrades have a way of making us believe we can do more than we realistically can.
- Midway through: Notice what’s resurfacing emotionally. If an old wound, relationship, or secret comes up, there’s likely something there that needs closure.
- The final days: Use the last stretch to integrate what you’ve learned and prepare for a fresh start once Mercury moves direct.
In Retrospect
Mercury retrograde in November 2025 isn’t here to ruin your month — it’s here to slow you down, sharpen your awareness, and help you spot what you might otherwise miss.
The key is to lean into patience, embrace the review process, and remember that the mix of Sagittarius optimism and Scorpio depth can be powerful if you work with it consciously.
What more is there to say? Keep your schedule a little flexible, your mind open, and your sense of humor intact. This is less about surviving Mercury retrograde…and more about using it as a reset before the year ends.