Get to know the real Leo
Those born between July 21st and August 21st are born under the Leo Star Sign, the fifth sign of the zodiac. In this article we will be taking an in-depth look at the star sign, discussing its history and mythology as well as the unique traits of a Leo.
Basic Facts
Element: Fire
Ruling Planet: The Sun
Symbol: The Lion
Crystals: Peridot and Chrysolite
Colours: Orange and Yellow
Plant/Flower: Laurel and Sunflower
Keywords
Proud, playful, self-assured, enduring, enthusiastic, opinionated, dramatic.
History & Mythology
The name ‘Leo’ comes originally from the Latin word for ‘Lion’ – the star signs mascot. It’s generally accepted that Leo represents the Nemean Lion, killed by Hercules, son of Zeus. According to the myth, the lion was extremely powerful, with impenetrable skin – similar to metal or stone, and had gone around the land killing all those who ventured near it. As he could not kill the lion with any weapon, Hercules managed to wrestle it to the ground and strangle it to death. Hercules instantly recognised the protective qualities of the Nemean Lions skin, and removed it with one of the lion’s own claws. From then on, he wore the pelt as his own personal armour.
Personality Traits
The enthusiastic Leo is larger than life. Just like their mascot, they have high esteem, they are honourable and very devoted to themselves and their kingdom. Being ruled by the Sun, Leos have the regal bearing that commands respect and recognition. They will always make their presence known, and enjoy nothing more than basking in the spotlight.
Leos have extremely high standards and they hate letting themselves or anybody else down. They offer genuine friendship, and are extremely loyal with a fierce sense of protection and responsibility towards loved ones. The downside of Leos pride is that it can sometimes tend to get in the way and be mistaken for snobbery or pomposity. They tend to sulk when they are not recognised, or think they are being ignored which leads to them often acting out for attention. When a Leos pride or feelings have been hurt they become very quick tempered and retire to their throne.
Leo Strengths
The Lion sign tend to be highly creative individuals, Leos are kind and good-natured, and bring sunshine into the lives of others.
Leo Weaknesses
Sometimes this star sign lets their pride overtake things, they can be arrogant, and express sentiments of being better than others.
Leo at Work
It can be easy for a Leo to find a new job, they look the part and perform well at interviews. This star sign is not afraid to exaggerate on occasion, to get ahead. They can be very hard workers, although are unlikely to own up to doing something wrong. They are happiest when they are in charge of a project.
The Leo star sign is good in customer service roles, they like keeping clients happy. Any position that needs a ‘bit of show’ would suit them. They do perform best when they receive praise for their work. They will want to choose a job and workplace that looks good to others, they like other people aspiring to be like them. A place of work that has an air of opulence would be perfect.
Leo and Love
To a Leo – love and drama are intertwined, they are very attractive to others as they exude natural beauty and liveliness. They are romantic people and generous and attentive to those that they love. You can tell when a Leo is in love as they literally radiate happiness. Their lion tendencies really come to the fore in love, they will literally fight to the end for a relationship and make great personal sacrifices if needed. Once in love they are protective, caring and supportive of their partners.
They do expect total commitment from their loved one, but having said that they admire independence, so they don’t expect them to become joined at the hip with no other interests. When they are out and about a Leo will expect their partner to look the part, so they are the envy of others – it’s important that others see how much they adore each other and that their love for each other is seen as truly special.
Leo and Family
Regardless of where a Leo child is born in relation to siblings, they tend to vie for the leadership role, they want to make their presence felt. Recognition from parents and wider family members is important to them. The rivalries formed in childhood are likely to carry through into adulthood. If a family is large, Leo is likely to act as defender and protector of those that are quieter and happy to be on the side-lines.
Leo and Friends
Leos like it if their friends are successful, as long as they are not perceived to be outshining them! Their playful nature and warm friendly manner attract many friends, and a Leo will be generous with them as long as gratitude is demonstrated.
But be warned that if a Leo feels that you have wronged them, whether it is something you said or did, in particular criticising them in some way, you could expect to be dropped, without so much as a by your leave.
Famous Leos
With Leo’s love of the limelight, it’s unsurprising that many stars were born under this larger than life sign. Pop divas and notable Leos Madonna and Jennifer Lopez demonstrate Leo’s positive traits as trendsetters, leaders and hard workers. Other fierce Leos include Mick Jagger, Barack Obama, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Discover More
Want to learn more about the Leo star sign, and discover what is to come for you this month? Then visit our Leo horoscopes page. Many of our Psychic Readers are especially talented in astrology and may be able to tell you more about what the future holds for the Leo. You can also find out more information on the compatibility between Leo and other star signs.
Posted: 24/08/2018
Related Category: Astrology
