Here's What Your Biggest Challenge in September Will Be, According to Your Zodiac Sign

Astrologer Valerie Mesa shares your horoscope for September, including what will be your biggest obstacle

As summer transitions into fall, the month ahead brings a whirlwind of transformation. From eclipse season to retrograde transits that put things into perspective, your biggest challenge in September revolves around re-evaluating your path and learning how to embrace the changes ahead.

The month begins with two powerful retrogrades, essentially turning the energy inward, where we’re encouraged to dig beneath the surface of our personal and professional foundations. To start, Uranus, the change-maker planet, stationed retrograde on Sept. 1, urging us to take a closer look at our creature comforts and core values. The inevitable chaos surrounding this transit allows us to free ourselves from stagnant energies.

Simultaneously, Pluto retrograde re-entered Capricorn, reminding us that the transformation we seek requires some heavy lifting. The presence of Pluto can be intensely intimidating, but its retrograde journey through Capricorn challenges us to reassess the structure of our lives, specifically themes of authority, career, reputation and self-mastery. Remember, it’s all about building a solid foundation for the future, even if things get rocky in the process.

On Sept. 4, Mars entered Cancer, a zodiac sign where the red planet tends to struggle. Look at it this way: Mars is the planet of assertion, drive, energy and passion; Cancer is moody, highly sensitive and emotionally introspective. Despite this being an opportunity to tune into your inner world and honor your feelings, we are individually and collectively prone to introversion instead of assertion and determination (both characteristics of the planet Mars) during this time.

Expect more curve balls ahead as the sun will clash with Saturn retrograde on Sept. 8, followed by Jupiter on Sept. 12. The confrontation with Saturn can feel like a reality check, highlighting limitations and responsibilities that can feel especially burdensome. Similarly, while at odds with Jupiter, our goals and dreams are likely to contradict each other, so it’s important to make sure we’re staying grounded while still reaching for the stars.

The energy peaks during this month’s lunar eclipse (Sept. 17), triggering a moment of emotional intensity and unexpected clarity, not to mention ushering in life-altering changes that could take place within the next six months. Eclipses are equivalent to super potent lunations — think of it as a cosmic reset as energies will slowly be eclipsed from our lives.

September comes to a close with a series of challenging aspects between the sun and Mercury in Virgo versus Saturn and Neptune retrograde in Pisces. Grounding ourselves in reality will be crucial at this time, so be gentle with yourself and follow your inner compass. The same goes for Venus and Pluto, as both planets will go head-to-head on Sept. 22, stirring up relationship dynamics that need to be addressed while bringing power struggles to the surface.

Read on for your biggest challenge in September according to your zodiac sign.

Related: Your Horoscope for August: Find Grounding Amidst the Chaos

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Expect some twists and turns ahead, but nothing you can’t handle, Aries. The influence of Uranus retrograde in your money sector and Pluto retrograde back in Capricorn might explain why you suddenly feel a massive weight of responsibility on your shoulders. It also doesn’t help that your fiery ruler, Mars, is in sink-or-swim mode in Cancer, bringing a focus to your home and family life. On top of feeling lethargic and more sensitive than usual, you may feel a tug-of-war between nurturing your loved ones and tending to your personal and professional goals.

This all takes place around the lunar eclipse in Pisces, which will ignite your hazy 12th house of healing, introspection and unconscious patterns. It’s time to let go of what no longer serves you, particularly hidden fears and anxieties that are holding you back from being the best version of yourself. Distinguishing between fantasy and reality will also be challenging for you this month — specifically with your mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Stay grounded, engage in self-care practices and avoid making any impulsive decisions.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

September has arrived, and it’s bound to shake things up for you, Taurus. It begins with Uranus retrograde in your sign, which is disruptive and more than often chaotic. It’s because of this that you may find yourself questioning everything from the validity of your personal goals to the image you portray to the world. The challenge here is to embrace this period of self-discovery without feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty of it all — think of it as a chance to redefine yourself. There’s nothing wrong with being a bit extravagant in your self-expression, just keep an eye on your budget!

Mid-month, you will find that certain friendships and connections no longer serve you as the eclipse challenges you to surrender and release to make room for deeper, more meaningful connections. A tumultuous square between your celestial ruler, Venus, and Pluto will be no exception, as it will likely challenge your current relationships and personal belief systems. The key to navigating this is open and honest communication. Don’t hesitate to address any imbalances in your connections and investments, whether personally or professionally speaking.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

The challenges you encounter in September push you to go within and tend to your inner world, Gemini. With Pluto retrograde back in your eighth house of transformation and shared resources, issues around vulnerability, specifically within your relationships, will likely resurface. The challenge here is to confront any fears or insecurities that may arise regarding your ability to trust. The sun will also clash with Jupiter in your sign, creating tension between your freedom and personal philosophy versus the logistics surrounding home and family.

Emotions will run high during the lunar eclipse on Sept. 17, as it will influence your 10th house of authority and career. On top of signaling the end of a professional chapter, the challenge here is to embrace transition, as it will lead you toward greater fulfillment. Before September comes to a close, a series of planetary oppositions will create tension between your personal and professional foundations, creating a foggy atmosphere around your career trajectory. Take a step back, assess the situation and get clear on your goals. 

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Although you’re a pro at treading emotional waters, you’re intensely sensitive in September, Cancer. This is especially true with Pluto back in Capricorn and your relationship sector, as it leaves you with no choice but to confront deeper dynamics in your close connections. The challenge here is to recognize where you may be giving away too much control or where you need to assert yourself. Mars is also in your sign, which can explain why your emotions are at an all-time high and making you overly reactive.

As if this weren’t enough on your plate, the lunar eclipse will touch down on your expansive ninth house of self-discovery and unknown territory, urging you to embrace unexpected changes and let go of the fears holding you back from pursuing new experiences. This is followed by a power-hungry square between Venus and Pluto, intensifying relationship dynamics in both your personal and professional life. Don’t be afraid to set the record straight, as you are bound to encounter power struggles and issues of control that require careful navigation.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You’re reassessing your values and goals this month, Leo. First, Uranus stationed retrograde in your career sector on Sept. 1, and Pluto is back in Capricorn and your sixth house of health and daily routines. While you may feel pulled to shake things up, the challenge here is to embrace the retrograde (re-evaluation) energies at play without feeling pressured to act immediately. Mars is also in Cancer, heightening your sensitivity and making you moodier than usual, so it’s important to navigate these feelings with compassion and not let them overwhelm you.

As the month progresses, a series of planetary oppositions create tension between your desire for stability versus the emotional complexities surrounding your intimate unions, both personally and professionally. A lunar eclipse will likely amplify these energies mid-month as it activates your eighth house of trust, transformation and shared investments. This can potentially cloud your perceptions regarding your financial situation and emotional ties. However, eclipses are catalysts for growth, and this one’s challenging you to release what no longer serves you. 

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

From communication issues to emotional revelations, here’s what to look out for in September, Virgo. Let’s start with Pluto’s re-entry into Capricorn on Sept. 1, as it is likely stirring up deep-seated emotions around love, passion and self-expression. There are also back-to-back planetary oppositions, triggering tension between your personal needs and the demands of your relationships. The challenge here is to assert your individuality without losing sight of prior commitments.

This push-and-pull dynamic continues throughout the month, but the energy peaks during the lunar eclipse in Pisces on Sept. 17. This astrological phenomenon is known to bring powerful change and enlightenment, and this one’s directly impacting your harmony-seeking seventh house of negotiations, relationships and contractual agreements. Expressing yourself and resolving conflicts could be a struggle this month, so it’s important to articulate your thoughts clearly.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You’re navigating changes at home while tackling challenges at work this month, Libra. September began with Uranus retrograde activating your eighth house of intimate affairs, bringing unexpected shifts and surprises. Pluto also re-entered Capricorn on the same day, which likely triggered emotional encounters and family dynamics that inspired the urge to transform your living situation. Addressing underlying issues with patience is a lot easier said than done, but the shadow work is necessary for a more solid foundation.

Mars is also charging up your 10th house of authority, making you all the more sensitive and reactive in the workplace. It’s important to navigate this intense emotional energy with a level head. The lunar eclipse on Sept. 17 is no exception, as it will emphasize areas of your life that need more attention, specifically themes surrounding your health and daily affairs. Your celestial ruler, Venus, will also clash with Pluto retrograde later in the month, resulting in intense emotions and power dynamics in your personal life. Tread lightly and do your best to approach things with grace and fairness.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Navigating the complexities of your relationships while staying true to yourself is your biggest challenge this month, Scorpio. This is especially true with Uranus officially backspinning through Taurus and your relationship sector, as you may find yourself reflecting on past connections while experiencing unexpected shifts in your current relationships. Moreover, with your modern ruler, Pluto, back in Capricorn (and your third house of the mind), you have no choice but to confront the shadow side of your communication style and belief systems, specifically around your sense of authority.

The sun will eventually clash with Jupiter, highlighting challenges in group dynamics and community affairs. This is followed by a lunar eclipse in Pisces that will touch down on your heart-centered fifth house of passion. There’s a strong desire to shed your “snakeskin” and embrace new forms of self-expression — find a creative outlet to channel this powerful energy. Before September ends, Venus will go head-to-head with Pluto in your communication sector. Unconscious blockages in your relationships will likely resurface; confront these hidden aspects with courage and clarity.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21)

Issues related to self-confidence and personal stability are likely to be at the top of your mind in September, Sagittarius. First, with Pluto back in Capricorn and your second house of financial security, you may experience a series of changes, specifically in the way you approach your values and material resources. Similarly, Mars’ journey through sensitive Cancer and your eighth house of intimate affairs stirs up intense emotions and power struggles in your close relationships.

The idea of “giving and receiving” may become a source of stress as the month progresses, but a few more planetary alignments challenge you to tackle work responsibilities and demands on the home front simultaneously. The energy will undoubtedly peak during the lunar eclipse, as it will shake up your fourth house of home, family and innermost feelings, bringing unresolved issues and emotions to the surface. This is followed by a spicy Venus-Pluto square, creating tension in your community affairs. Stand your ground; you don’t need to prove anything to anyone.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

September will be quite momentous, and in ways you’re not expecting, Capricorn. After all, there’s no denying the effects that come with having smoldering Pluto back in your territory. While you may feel a strong urge to redefine your approach, the challenge here lies in confronting fears and limiting beliefs that have previously inhibited you from stepping into your power. This goes hand in hand with Mars’ recent ingress in Cancer, which now charges up your relationship sector. So, if you find that you’re more reactive to conflicts or perhaps feel the need to assert your boundaries more than usual, it’s not a coincidence.

The timeliness of this month’s lunar eclipse in Pisces can also be considered divine, as it is igniting your curious third house of the mind and communication — say what you need to say without letting your emotions get the best of you. (Or, at the very least, try.) Moreover, while gracing your 10th house of reputation, lovely Venus will face off with Pluto in your sign, triggering unexplainable tensions at work or with those in authority. If power struggles or intense relationship dynamics arise in the workplace, the key is to remain true to your values.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You're called to do some shadow work in September, Aquarius. See, despite being granted a quick break (without the Lord of the Underworld in your sign for a little while), Pluto never ceases to penetrate beyond the surface of things, and it’s back in your inhibited 12th house of healing, secrets and unconscious patterns. That being said, tuning into your emotions may not be your forte, but this month calls for deep self-reflection.

As if this wasn’t already intensely personal, your modern ruler, Uranus, is also retrograde in your fourth house of emotional foundations, nudging you to re-evaluate your personal stability. This coincides with a series of challenging aspects influencing your second house of comfort and your eighth house of intimate unions and shared investments. Give yourself permission to explore both areas of your life without feeling guilty for prioritizing the other. However, use your discernment as you may struggle to see things clearly.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

There’s an eclipse happening this month, and it’s got your name on it — need I say more, Pisces? Before then, however, you will likely experience a push and pull between staying true to yourself versus the need to nurture your commitments and partnerships. The weight of expectations can be overwhelming, so asserting your boundaries and communicating your needs clearly will be crucial. This is no exception on the home front, as conflicting demands can lead to you neglecting your well-being and responsibilities.

As you know, the energy peaks mid-month, when a super potent full moon (partial lunar eclipse, to be exact) activates your sign, prompting you to reassess your personal goals and identity. Old patterns and ways of life that no longer serve you will make themselves known, so it’s important for you to embrace the transformation at play and allow yourself to evolve into a more authentic version of yourself. Vulnerability can lead to deeper connections, but remember to prioritize your commitment to self-care.

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