Astrology is undeniably a topic that sparks strong opinions. Some people completely dismiss it, rejecting its theories and implications. Others eagerly read their daily horoscopes and judge every new acquaintance on their astrological compatibility. Then, there are those in between—people who know about astrology, and might believe in it to some extent, often influenced by proximity to a friend that falls in the latter category. I consider myself part of this middle ground. I enjoy astrology, but I’m not fully immersed in its every avenue. My perspective is softer in how it’s shaped more by what astrology offers in terms of insight and self-reflection rather than an unwavering belief in its accuracy.
My knowledge of astrology is limited, as my initial curiosity was primarily focused on understanding myself. Once I had explored my own sign and those of my friends, my intrigue naturally slowed. I’m not someone who can guess birth charts or analyze planetary placements in depth—I’ve just grasped the general characteristics and energies associated with each sign.
That being said, I used to psychoanalyze myself and my relationships, cross-checking my compatibility with friends and now ex-boyfriends against astrological descriptions. I honestly can’t say whether I find the traits accurate because of astrology’s validity or because of a psychological tendency to see behavioral patterns and assign them meaning based on external frameworks. Still, I notice trends—like how my Aries friends share a dynamic energy with me, making conversations feel effortless. Observations like these shape my perspective, reinforcing my spiritual philosophy that blends astrology with personal intuition in taking things as “a sign”.
Even after periods of deep fascination in learning more about where each of the planets fall in companion with my birth chart, my belief hasn’t wavered so much as it has quieted over time, tempered by a subdued skepticism. When I think about it logistically, I can’t help but think it seems silly, but the fact that it’s rooted in what used to be considered “science” draws me to find it more empirical than other spiritual beliefs.
And what if it can’t be entirely disproved? Perhaps those who don’t leverage it wouldn’t have enough knowledge to correctly claim that it doesn’t define their reality and their relationships with others? What if its promise, as reflected by daily horoscopes, isn’t to predict fate, but to serve as a guide that helps us tap into our strengths? What if believing in it can help us to reach a potential we otherwise wouldn’t have developed? And if believing in it encourages personal growth, does it matter whether it’s objectively true?
My soft belief is characterized by an equally soft understanding of what I truly believe. Rather than something I have to take a distinct stance on, astrology is one of the many things that influences my understanding of myself and my relationships around me. I take pride in the positive Gemini qualities I think I exude, helping me to see myself in a more confident light in reflecting on my strengths. And, I can explain the parts of me that don’t fit with my sun sign by the traits associated with my “big three” and other sign placements, tapping into all elements of my persona. For someone who enjoys taking personality tests and learning about the different ways to characterize themselves, astrology can be a meaningful tool for introspection and soul-searching.