Scrolling through zodiac text post memes on Instagram, taking quizzes for a system to guess your sign, reading a tempting horoscope… We’ve all been there, and it’s all in good fun, right? While it’s a comforting notion that the alignment of the stars has its eyes on our daily experiences, the idea that our supposed birthsign could encompass who we are and how we fit among our peers and family can take a toll on our open-mindedness.
Many times I’ve contemplated in awe at how I am unsure about who I am, what I believe in or what I really even look like. My phase in zodiac obsession, in hindsight, was an attempt to quench my thirst for inner-validation. “Yeah, I’m a judgemental Virgo, but that’s because I have high expectations for myself and others.” What do I gain from referencing a fantasy identity when evaluating my weaknesses and flaws of character? Horoscopes give each zodiac a vague description of love life or emotional plight tips that could apply to at least the majority of the population. Unfortunately, it was not long before I would internally wonder about the birth signs of classmates, friends of friends, distant relatives — and whether they really fit the bill. I’d think “Virgos are so lame, why couldn’t I be an air sign instead?”
And when you add moon, sun and rising signs, natal charts and the 13th sign Ophiuchus, everything becomes a greater mess. You may be thinking, “Well, speak for yourself!” and you’re right, my experiences may be mine and only mine. However, it’s undeniable that most people are capable of indulging in activities while not realizing the effects they have on their mindset and outlook on life. Basing your character flaws and skill strengths on a stereotyped zodiac predisposes your mind to avoid people and situations that are incompatible. You may not specifically reference astrology in those specific moments, but the mental habit of categorizing people and traits is powerful.
To cultivate fearlessness of new experiences, to truly get to know others beneath the surface, and to step out of comfort zones without constant suffering, one must realize that anyone can be anything.
The “human experience” is ultimately about knowingly disposing of toxicity that limits you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Take control of how you nourish your well-being and beware the sneaky prison of astrology.
Photo by Josh Rangel on Unsplash