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The New Year is practically here and you’re in the mood to set some new goals for 2026 as the Sun continues its journey through ambitious Capricorn! The first few weeks of the year help you laser focus on what you want to achieve. You’re making progress on longterm goals and feeling more disciplined in all areas of your life as a result. There’s more Capricorn energy surging through the sky on 1 January when Mercury, the planet on the mind, enters Capricorn, too. This lends you more strategy and discernment when it comes to your decision-making process. Conversations are also more direct, and people are eager to get straight to the point.

There’s a Full Moon in Cancer on 3 January that helps you feel all the feelings you’ve ignored. This lunation is an emotional one, but it can help you express resentment and frustration you’ve bottled up, which can bring about healing. There might be some sense of needing to release the past or break a certain pattern or cycle that runs in your family line. You’re eager to start fresh.

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Getty Images/ Artwork by Ruta Zemaityte

You’re starting to feel more social and outgoing once again when Venus enters Aquarius on 17 January. The next few weeks help you remember the importance of community and it can feel recharging to hang out with others. Singles might also meet someone through friends, the dating apps, or someone you once friend-zoned could turn into something more!

You’re feeling ready to commit to a new goal under the New Moon in Capricorn on 18 January. This is the time to act on whatever ideas or resolutions you’ve been kicking around in your head the first few weeks of the year. This energy is motivating and encourages you to take steps toward the future version of yourself who is living your dream life!

The following day, on 19 January, the Sun enters Aquarius, helping you focus on the future. You’re ready to take some risks, shake up your life, and innovate. You know that in order to reach your desires, you have to try something you’ve never done before. This energy can also bring your attention to the collective - how can you leverage your own gifts and talents to help make the world a better place?

The next day, on 20 January, Mercury enters Aquarius, putting you in a more social mood. You’re eager to connect with people who share similar interests and hobbies as you. This is a great time to look for an organisation to volunteer with or to pencil in more friend dates and get out of the house. You’re craving a deeper purpose and sense of belonging. Mars, the planet of action and frustration, moves into Aquarius on 23 January, and you’re ready to fight for what you believe in! This might bring drama to some social circles, but it can also put you in the mood to collaborate with others. You’re taking innovative approaches and trying new things.

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One of the most important astrological shifts of 2026 takes place on 26 January when Neptune enters Aries. Neptune has been moving through the sign of Pisces since 2011, so this is a major shift personally and collectively. We experienced a brief preview of this energy last year from 30 March through 22 October. This will mark a new era of your life as you face reality checks, dream new dreams, and let go of old versions of yourself in the process. Collectively, we’re witnessing old power structures dissolve and be reborn.

You’re dealing with power struggles and confronting your shadow side on 27 January when Mars and Pluto come together, in Aquarius, at the same point in the sky. Something hidden might be revealed. Tensions are high. Be gentle with yourself and others and know that facing your fears and conflict can lead to a renewed sense of empowerment.

Fortunately, the month wraps up on a lighter note thanks to Mercury and Venus linking up in Aquarius on 29 January. You could hear lucky news or the "yes" you’ve been hoping for. This energy is great for socialising, going on a date, telling someone you love them, or leaning into your creative side. Have fun, be expressive, and take risks - luck is on your side!

Read your Sun, Moon, and Rising sign horoscope for January 2026:

    From: Cosmopolitan US