Is it a bad time to ask for a raise?

There's no evidence it is. It can be a good time to prepare your case: gather results, benchmark pay and rehearse.

Does Venus retrograde affect everyone the same way?

In astrology, the effect is said to depend on where it falls in your chart. In practice, treat it as a general prompt to review collaboration and value.

What is Venus retrograde, and what does it mean for work?

Updated September 25, 2026

Venus retrograde happens roughly every 18 months and lasts about six weeks, when Venus appears to move backward from Earth's point of view. Astrologers associate Venus with relationships, collaboration, aesthetics and how we value things, so the period is often used as a prompt to review partnerships, pricing and working relationships. It's a reflection lens, not a forecast.

The astronomy

Venus is an inner planet, like Mercury. When Earth and Venus pass each other, Venus appears to stop, reverse for around 40–43 days, and move forward again. It's also when Venus passes between Earth and the Sun (inferior conjunction).

The work angle

Collaboration: Which working relationships are energizing, and which need a reset conversation?
Value: Are your rates, salary or time allocation still right? Research now, act when ready.
Brand and design: A natural moment to review a portfolio, website or presentation style rather than rebrand overnight.

What not to do

Don't cancel plans or refuse opportunities because of the retrograde. Use it for review and preparation.

Questions

How long does Venus retrograde last?: About 40 to 43 days.
How often does it happen?: Roughly once every 18 months.
Is it a bad time to ask for a raise?: There's no evidence it is. It can be a good time to prepare your case: gather results, benchmark pay and rehearse.
Does Venus retrograde affect everyone the same way?: In astrology, the effect is said to depend on where it falls in your chart. In practice, treat it as a general prompt to review collaboration and value.

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By the Tutelox editorial team. Positions come from NASA JPL ephemeris calculations; the writing is AI-assisted and reviewed by people. How we make this.

For entertainment and self-reflection. Not professional advice.