Did you just say that? Um, yes you did. On Friday, communication planet Mercury enters impatient, gruff Aries, the sign known for speaking its mind without any extra grace or nuance. Aries is ruled by oh-so-direct Mars, so getting to the point will be the order of the day for the next couple of weeks.

Is it possible to be straightforward and tactful? That’s something we’ll all want to work harder at now. From March 12 through April 4, Mercury will go retrograde (backward), a time when miscommunications can run rampant. Start practicing now. Call it like you see it, but try to be constructive, rather than accusatory.

Mercury in Aries is also a great time to work on a solo project. Aries is the sign of the individual and the star. Put yourself out there: Get a head shot taken, launch a blog, ask for a favor or a word of recommendation. As long as you pay it forward or return the kindness, it’s not selfish to let others support you!