When not to start a new business? October 30th 2022 – January 12th 2023 Mars retrogrades. Mars is the planet of actions and desires. Retrograde means going backwords and so the planet’s forces are not so strong during this period. If you want to open a brand new business you may find that you may lack the energy to make it successful or you could find that progress is not happening as fast as you expected. However this period is perfect to complete or refashion your existing business.