I used to go mostly by planetary and lunar placement for timing and still do sometimes if i feel it may be of benifit. But for the last year or so the conecpt i was introduced to has change this.
The most you learn and experience about astrology(planetary energies) the less bound you are by them. Meaning the less they influence you and the more you can use them to influence your reality.
The deeper i go into planetary magic the more i find this to be to. For example if a ritual i am doing requires the energies of specific aspects of the planet i conjure those energies in ritual. I see it as a good way to flex energetic muscles and test myself.
If the idea is to become a living god, one must be able to make time and space work for them not be bound by the moment they are in. Least thats how i see it and it works for me.