Signs are Seasons

Leo occupies the middle of the summer in the northern hemisphere, the hottest time of the year for half the planet. It's appropriate, then, that the sign Leo is associated with our source of heat, the Sun. This central star of our solar system is the hub around which all of the planets orbit. This position of centrality is basic to the Leo personality.

Leo represents awareness of self and is, arguably, the most self-centered sign of the zodiac. Taken negatively, this means that Leo can be blinded by the light of its own ego. Like a shining star, its brilliance can make it difficult to recognize the importance of others. Learning to share the spotlight is a core issue for many Leos.

The Ruler

The Sun in astrology is said to "rule" the sign Leo. That means that there is a natural affinity between this "planet" and sign. Being born with a planet in its "home" sign is considered to be an advantage by astrologers.

The energy of the Sun is thought to flow most easily in Leo. However, a planet in its home sign can also be overly simplistic and narrow in its expression. A lack of obstacles in not always a strength.

Leos, then, can benefit from humbling experiences. It's important that they learn how to fail, so that they can reconnect to the sources of their creativity and confidence and begin again.

The Child

Leo is the fifth sign of the zodiac. It represents that point in the cycle when a child becomes aware of his or her personal power. The discovery of self is a wonderful thing, a fascinating experience in which the rest of the world is seen as a toy with which to play. From a healthy perspective, this offers a sense of confidence that encourages creativity and risktaking throughout life. However, a potential pitfall is for Leo to operate under the illusion that he or she is creating the world in which all of us live, rather than just being a part of it.

Growing up can be a challenge for everyone, but is particularly true for Leos. Moving from the excitement of possibilities to the real commitments necessary for accomplishment can be the measure of Leo's potential for success. Learning to listen, too, can be vital for Leo to fulfill its considerable ambitions.

Stars vs. Constellations

It is natural for Leo to see him or herself as a star. Those born under this sign do best when their self-confidence is high. Yet, even though it is the hub of our solar system, the Sun is but one star among the uncountable billions in the sky. What appears to be the source of life from one perspective is just another point in a distant constellation from another. Leos who understand that everyone is a star are best able to build the co-operative relationships that can make life so satisfying.

Famous Leos

Leo is the sign of fame with a virtually endless list from Madonna to Jagger along with C.J. Jung, George Bernard Shaw, Aldous Huxley, Robert Redford, Neil Armstrong, Julia Child, Halle Berry,Barack Obama, Martha Stewart, James Baldwin, Bill Clinton, Fidel Castro, Robert De Niro, Whitney Houston, Jerry Garcia, Lucille Ball, Dustin Hoffman, Andy Warhol, and a few million others.