The Modes: Taking the Path of Least Resistance
Are you the starter, sustainer, or the finisher? Learn how to honour your natural mode of operation, rather than trying to be someone you're not.
Welcome to the Cosmic Classroom!
Where I bring monthly astro-education pieces to paid subscribers in the Cosmic Classroom. If you’re interested in learning more about yourself through the lens of your own chart, be sure to follow along!
In the last Cosmic Classroom article we talked about the elements in astrology and how they interact with and support our lives. By becoming aware of the elements in nature, and in ourselves, we can better understand and notice when things start to feel off, while having access to simple tools to get back into balance.
The modes in astrology.
There are three modes, each mode including four of the twelve zodiac signs, which is why it can also be described as quadruplicity. Each sign in the respective modes creates a square or opposition to each other (we’ll talk about this more when we explore aspects) which can cause tension. Each sign in the mode wants the same thing, but they each have a unique way of getting there. The modes are what determine the seasons in nature, too. This can be a helpful connection to make because the nature of the modes directly reflects the nature of the seasonal shifts.
Cardinal: the beginning of each season
Fixed: mid-season
Mutable: the end of each season
The distribution of each mode in our own chart can tell us more about our own mode of operation.
My chart for example, is mostly fixed, which speaks to the part of me that has staying power. I’m loyal (almost to a fault), when I start something I often see it through with consistent action (unless I’m uninterested or lack incentive), and it’s also the part of me that is really fucking stubborn and hard headed (I’m sure my mom has lots to say about that).
If I separate my big three1, two of the three placements are cardinal, which speaks to the part of me that loves to start new. If you look at the trajectory of my life, much of it has been spent starting fresh—whether it be by moving across the country to the arctic circle for a job, moving to a new country for a fresh start after a breakup, or the bazillion business ideas that constantly float through my head waiting to be born. This is also the part of me that can start something new a little too quickly without thinking it through, when even the abundance of fixed energy can’t keep me going.
Knowing these parts of me allows me to bring more awareness to how I move through the world. I know that I’m the type of person that has big ideas, who is a natural leader, but I also know that not every idea is meant to be birthed into the world—especially if the resources and motivation aren’t there to sustain it. With this awareness, I’m able to sit with myself before rushing in and getting in way over my head and taking others on a ride they didn’t ask to go on (most times). It also allows me the permission to go all in on projects I believe in, because I know I’ll be able to make it happen if it feels right.
What about your own astrology chart?
Check out this post if you need help creating your chart.
You’ll be able to see the modal breakdown in your chart you created via astro.com. Take a look at the diagram below for reference. If you need an extra hand, check out the video at the bottom of this page for a step-by-step walkthrough.
Count up the planets/points in each mode column (C, F, M)—which mode is most prevalent, which is least?
Keep this in mind as you continue reading!
Let’s break down the three modes, their respective signs, and the qualities associated with each.
Below you will find information for each of the three modes and their signs, along with the video walkthrough. If you would like to gain access to the Cosmic Classroom and learn more about yourself through the lens of your own chart, consider becoming a paid member. If you’re already a paid member, don’t let me stop you—keep reading!