The longest year in modern history is finally drawing to a close. And as much as we want to declare it done and never look back again, well…that would be missing 2020’s whole point. Astrologically, this year was designed for humans to look at our shadows. Like an interminable Groundhog Day or a nightmarishly extended eclipse, things we didn’t want to deal with came to light. It was also a tide-turning interruption to our pre-scheduled programming. No more numbing out! Issues most humans didn’t want to deal with—from historical reckonings to our own damn families—were magnified onto 2020’s Jumbotron.
The cosmic explanation for this lies in a rare (and totally awkward) planetary menage-a-trois. For the first time since the 1200s, karma cop Saturn, secret-keeper Pluto and live-out-loud Jupiter were all orbiting through Capricorn, the zodiac sign that rules the economy, government, big business, the wealth class, and the patriarchy. On January 12, astro-auditor Saturn teamed up with Pluto for the first time since 1518, revealing many structural flaws that were happening below the surface (Pluto’s realm). Then, on April 4, June 30 and November 13, amplifier Jupiter shined its high-exposing beams into Pluto’s hidden vaults for the first time since 1771! From scandals to buried desires, we could no longer hide skeletons in our closets.
Perhaps 2020’s purpose was to help us diagnose the problems that have plagued society for years—yes, along with diagnosing an actual plague. If the stars continue to read this clearly, 2021 will serve up breakthrough innovations as Saturn and Jupiter move through progressive, scientific Aquarius. Although there are some battles ahead next year, we may see some of the most entrenched systems evolve.
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Idea: Before you pick the best DJ to livestream into your living room on NYE, take a moment to appreciate the resilience you gained in 2020. What have you learned from seeing the flaws in the machinery? How have you grown stronger? And if you’d like to use the zodiac as your guide, here’s a cheat sheet to the lessons 2020 taught you—and a preview of what’s ahead in 2021.
ARIES
What 2020 taught you: The value of structured, long-term goals rather than living for the moment
What’s ahead in 2021: Collaborating with a dream team
TAURUS
What 2020 taught you: How to be adventurous, spontaneous and independent
What’s ahead in 2021: Rising to new heights in leadership and career
GEMINI
What 2020 taught you: How to be intimate, vulnerable and deepen the relationship with yourself
What’s ahead in 2021: Major personal growth with a chance to share your ideas with a global audience; possible relocation
CANCER
What 2020 taught you: How to love people without controlling them, letting yourself be supported
What’s ahead in 2021: Going “all in” with people who excite and inspire you; long-term investing
LEO
What 2020 taught you: Joy through simplicity and mindfulness, healthy habits and boundaries
What’s ahead in 2021: Fulfilling partnerships, reconnection to beauty, art and creativity
VIRGO
What 2020 taught you: How to be passionate, messy and to lead with your heart
What’s ahead in 2021: Grounding yourself in healthy routines and fulfilling work
LIBRA
What 2020 taught you: The joys of nesting, deepening bonds with your inner circle
What’s ahead in 2021: Creative and romantic awakening
SCORPIO
What 2020 taught you: How to embrace change and experiment, communication skills
What’s ahead in 2021: Putting down roots, home buying, family expansion or changes under your roof
SAGITTARIUS
What 2020 taught you: Working smarter not harder, productivity through consistency
What’s ahead in 2021: Profitable partnerships, media opportunities, new friends
CAPRICORN
What 2020 taught you: The power of your inner strength and resilience—you are a badass!
What’s ahead in 2021: A simplified schedule, new routines and revenue streams
AQUARIUS
What 2020 taught you: Honoring your feelings, trusting the universe, letting go
What’s ahead in 2021: A life reinvention and energy reboot
PISCES
What 2020 taught you: The joys of bonding with a soul squad
What’s ahead in 2021: Spiritual and artistic exploration, sharpening your psychic powers
Identical twin sisters Ophira and Tali Edut (a.k.a. The AstroTwins) are ELLE.com’s resident astrologers. They are the authors of several astrology books, including Momstrology and Supercouple, and serve as the astrological matchmakers for Prime Video’s Cosmic Love. The Detroit-born pair has read charts for celebrities the likes of Beyoncé and Karlie Kloss. For their spot-on predictions, books, and online courses, visit astrostyle.com.
