Mercury rules how we think and communicate, so what is your Mercury position telling you about how you think? And what about any other important people in your life; how do they think?

The first, and most important, step in unravelling Mercury's message is to decipher its element. Is it in a fire, earth, air, or water sign? This is crucial.

Why? Well, let's think about it…

Fire. It is hot and unstoppable, isn't it? So, how do you think those with a fire sign Mercury might think and speak? Yes, you've got it! Quickly, with warmth but without prior consideration, maybe a tad aggressively when pushed. And yet, also remember that on dark winter evenings we all like to huddle around a fire, drawn to its comforting and alluring warmth, and the uplifting mood it creates. When communicating with fire sign Mercurys of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, these are the things to keep in mind.

What about earth? Earth is, well, it is literally earth-bound. So how might they think? Practically, sensibly and with their focus on material comforts and gains. And when they say something, they mean it. Forever. So what if sometimes they don't want to change anything and prefer the status quo? You can trust earth signs, and what an accolade in an untrustworthy and shifting world. These loyal people are those with Mercury in Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.

Do a turnaround and we come to air. It's always moving, isn't it? That's why those with Mercury in an air sign are quick thinkers, with shifting moods and ideas. If air stops moving, it gets stale and unhealthy, which explains why the thoughts and speech of those with an air sign Mercury constantly change. They are incredibly hard to pin down to one idea, one thought, or one plan, but are great fun and a joy to be with. These live wires are the Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius Mercurys.

We come to water. It soothes and cools, doesn't it? Step into a body of water and it envelops you in its calming, non-judgmental depths. That's what those with Mercury in a water sign do. They understand; they are intuitive and accepting. Everyone is welcome to their compassion. Yet, there comes a point when water builds up, overflows, and seeps away. They can only give so much. Look to those with Mercury in the signs of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces for this unassuming acceptance of who you really are.

You see how this one small thing is so revealing? Without knowing anything else about someone, glancing at their Mercury sign element gives you a BIG clue on how to approach them to get what you want, be it a job or their love. With those with Mercury in a fire sign, be cheerful and can-do. With earth Mercurys, talk practicalities and future prospects. With Mercury in an air sign, come up with innovative ideas and appear flexible, and with the water Mercurys, appeal to their compassion and empathy.

And this secret way of approaching others is exposed by one of the most basic things on our planet. The elements.