We all have that fiercely loyal friend who would back you up in a heartbeat and never leave your side. Chances are good that they’re a Leo. These folks naturally take the lead on projects, whether that’s dividing up the bill at happy hour or volunteering to present at the next board meeting.
With their fiery energy, passion, and enthusiasm for everything, Leos have standout personalities, traits, and characteristics. Like their animal symbol, the lion, they're social animals who are difficult to tame. If there's a Leo in your life, it's best to accept them as there are, play with them, and revel in the excitement and drama they bring to your world. Get to know the Leo personality traits.
Leo Overview
Here's all the essential info you need on the Leo sign:
- Leo dates: July 23 - August 22
- Element: Fire
- Aspect: Fixed
- Planetary ruler: Sun
- Symbol: Lion ♌︎
- Colors: Yellow, red, gold
- Most compatible signs: Libra, Gemini, Aquarius
- Love language: Physical touch
Leo's Traits
Leo, the zodiac's fixed fire sign, is ruled by the Sun and symbolized by the lion. Leos radiate heat, and their bright, childlike spirit brings life to everything surrounding them. These individuals need compliments, words of praise, and undivided attention for their fire to radiate brightly. Like all zodiac personalities, Leo can display both positive and negative traits.
Leo's Positive Traits
Leos have the heart of a lion and an unmistakable presence of nobility. Their positive traits include:
- Enthusiastic
- Determined
- Ambitious
- Creative
- Generous
- Dynamic
- Loyal
- Romantic
- Decisive
- Warm-hearted
- Confident
- Charismatic
Leo's Negative Traits
As with all signs of the zodiac, there are some less desirable characteristics associated with the Leo personality, which include:
- Vain
- Egotistical
- Childish
- Overbearing
- Stubborn
- Status seeking
- Possessive
- Autocratic
- Pretentious
- Arrogant
- Cocky
- Dominating
8 Key Leo Characteristics
Leos want to be noticed and take center stage. A Leo can be self-absorbed and self-centered, but they can just as easily abandon all thoughts of themselves if they see someone in trouble. If you were born between July 23 and August 22, your sign is Leo, and you'll likely display these key Leo traits.
Leos Have Enormous Hearts
People born under this sign have enormous, lion-sized hearts. Leos are always willing to come to the aid of their friends and loved ones. They have a compassionate heart and are kind, benevolent, and generous.
They're Protective and Loyal
A Leo is loyal, fearless, strong, and watchful. Folks of this sign feel obligated to take care of and protect their friends and loved ones. When you're in their inner circle, there's no question that a Leo would go to the ends of the Earth for you.
Leos Are Materialistic
Leos desire the best of everything. The best cars, the best wines, the best restaurants, and the most beautiful woman or handsome man. Leos can sometimes get a little carried away with this concept of "the best and most beautiful" and forget that character defines who they or others are.
They Are Honest and Direct
Leos are very honest and tend to be direct and straightforward. They will give you feedback if you ask for it. However, Leos seldom mince words, and their honesty can come off as a bit too biting.
Leos Are Born Entertainers
Leo knows how to entertain everyone with their theatrics. If there's a Leo in the crowd, you can expect them to be clever, creative, witty, and the amusing center of attention. Karaoke, anyone?
They Tend to Focus on Themselves
Leo's fiery and fixed nature often prompts these individuals to continually direct the spotlight onto themselves. A Leo can be quite the entertainer and never shies away from a camera. Still, their ego-driven side can mean they need a little nudge as a reminder to share the spotlight with others.
Leos Strive to Excel
A Leo never accepts defeat and will continue courageously fighting until they conquer every challenge they set their minds to. Once Leo takes on a project, they will not only achieve their goals but will likely exceed all expectations.
They Can Appear Cocky
Leos see themselves as the center of their universe and can often get caught up in their own self-importance. At times, a Leo can come off as cocky, arrogant, pompous, and patronizing because their confidence burns so bright.
Physical Characteristics of a Leo
Just like the majestic lion, a Leo is hard to miss. They move with the dignified gait of someone in command and are seldom in danger of being ignored. Many Leos have thick, full hair that almost resembles a lion's mane. They have bright, expressive eyes and skin that absolutely glows. What else would you expect from a sign ruled by the Sun?
Leo Relationship Traits
Leos know how to love and be loved. They're sexy, virile, and romantic to the end. A Leo will cherish and protect their partner and remain loyal throughout the relationship. Other relationship traits for Leo include:
- Leos are incredibly loyal to the people they love.
- They're definitely romantics and go all in on relationships.
- Their gestures are big, extravagant, and sometimes over the top.
- Leos adore being flattered and complimented.
- They tend to take the lead in relationships.
- Leos can be competitive when courting and dating.
- They love hosting and entertaining.
- Leos are looking for a loyal life partner.
Leo Career Traits
Leo is a leader who can inspire and motivate you to follow them. Their authoritative and confident style of leadership commands respect and can unite those they lead. Some common career paths for Leos include:
- Actor
- Event planner
- Entrepreneur
- Business coach
- Public relations specialist
- Fashion designer
- Branding consultant
- Social media manager
- Politician
Eminent Leos
There are plenty of famous Leos, including:
- Helen Mirren (7/26/45)
- Barack Obama (8/4/61)
- Madonna (8/16/58)
- Chris Hemsworth (8/11/83)
- Coco Chanel (8/19/1883)
- Jennifer Lopez (7/24/69)
- Arnold Schwarzenegger (7/30/47)
- Daniel Radcliffe (7/23/89)
Getting to Know Leo
Every Leo is different, but there's no question that folks born under this sign are passionate and loyal. Their warm, confident personality attracts people like moths to a flame, which is a great thing because Leos are so darn loving and social. If you're a Leo yourself or have one of these regal individuals in your life, there's a lot to appreciate about this dynamic sign.
Leo — discover what the week has in store for you with your weekly horoscope.
