06

You have some bright ideas, new projects you’re excited to start. The only problem is the people you’re hoping to get the green light from are saying “No.” Don’t despair. Be determined—sort out any logistical issues, see if there are compromises that can be made, and keep going until they at least re-evaluate what you’re proposing. In the words of Tintin’s Captain Haddock, “You hit a wall, you push through it.”

Take notes, this is very important advice that you’ll get from any student or professor. Is there a career fair, a faculty and student meet-and-greet, or a lecture by your favorite author or researcher? Would any of these events give you the chance to meet someone important in your career field? Note it down on your calendar for later. Use your good humour and charms to make some new friends or connections. They’ll be helpful in the future.

This is a time of transition for you. Maybe you need to move out or change degrees. You might feel scared or anxious, unsure what to do even with (or because of) the advice from everyone around you. Think about what will make you happy or what will contribute to your growth. You might lose some of the freedom or stability you have now, but if you know you’ll emerge stronger, the harder decision is the right decision to make.

You’ve been cooped inside for much of this semester, working on assignments and, if you have them, studying for exams. It’s time for you to emerge from your cave and get some fresh air and energy. Get together with a friend or two and let loose a little. Head off-campus and out of town, whether it’s to hike up Mount Benson or go on a (not-too-crazy) shopping scree in downtown Vancouver. Don’t forget to give yourself breaks; burnout is not worth it.

“Thanks, but I’m busy. Thanks, but I don’t think I’m the right person for this. Thanks, but I know someone else who’s interested.” Sound familiar? Whether it’s impostor syndrome, the fear of the unknown, or a childhood deprived of validation, you’re used to selling yourself short and passing up exciting opportunities. We say, do it! This may be the pivotal moment in your career, love, or life journey. Take the plunge—this opportunity might not come again!

With the lunar eclipse, you might feel more off-balance than you usually are during the semester. Instead of stressing over upcoming exams and assignments, find a creative outlet for that nervous energy. It could be as organized as a 5000-piece puzzle or as messy as finger-painting. Do a few sessions throughout the week, by yourself or with classmates. Hopefully, you come away feeling centered and relaxed and ready to push on until the last day of school.

You’ve been so focused on learning and memorizing information for marks that your mind is exhausted. Set time aside this month for some much-needed mental rest. Take a break from screens, even if it’s just leaving your phone behind to walk around the neighborhood. Try some yoga or sit inside a place of worship. Listen to calming music or ambient sounds instead of scrolling through social media before bed. Whether it’s purely mindfulness or paired with spiritual exercises, your mind will be refreshed, and so will you.

Confidence and bluntness. Two things that can go together, but not always. We’re not saying you shouldn’t confront a problem head-on, but—depending on the situation and person you’re dealing with—it’s not always the best approach. Diplomacy is an art that gets better with practice. Be tactful and strategic. Try to understand where the other person is coming from. Keeping your temper helps. Honesty is the best policy, but thoughtfulness goes a long way, too.

Your composure is cracking. You’re making decisions based on “I want to get it done now” versus “Now’s the time to do it.” Take your foot off the gas and sit yourself down, pardner. Stop what you’re doing and take deep breaths. Wait until you’re settled down—with tea, a glass of wine, herbal essences—before evaluating what needs to be done. Trust us, you’ll be glad you waited to put your best foot forward rather than rushing in without thinking.

You have an idea. Something original and out-of-the-box. You’ve thought through the pros and cons and believe it will be beneficial for everyone. But you hesitate about bringing it up. What if your arguments fall apart when you discuss it with other people? We say, go for it. Either it stays percolating in your mind with the regrets of not being voiced, or you pitch it and see what happens. Who knows, it could be the start of a wonderful adventure. 

We’ve come full circle, Pisces. Now that you’ve allowed yourself to grow emotionally, it’s time to share your progress with others. Consider becoming a Wellness Peer to offer students a chance to chat and unwind. If a classmate seems to be struggling with something, ask if there’s anything you can do to help, even if it’s just sitting down over tea or coffee. It could be your smile and kind words can brighten someone’s day.