While the elements of the zodiac reveal a general “temperament” of the signs, the modalities speak to the behavioral style that’s best suited for the personality of each sign. Picture a group project setting and you’ll find that the modalities describe 1. the self-starter, 2. the “go with the flow” creative soul, and the person you’d trust to actually get whatever it is – done.
Those three descriptions describe the three modalities: CARDINAL, MUTABLE, and FIXED.
The Cardinal Signs
Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn
Often referred to as the “frontrunners” of the Zodiac because they kick off the beginning of each season, cardinal signs can be best described as visionary leaders and self-starters. Just as you would imagine, cardinal signs LOVE to be first – always taking charge and leading other people is within their framework. They have an unmistakeable “go-getter” type of attitude. It can feel like these signs have plans to achieve the impossible! Each of these four zodiac signs has a different way of being a leader. Just like a ram, Aries excel at initiating action. You won’t find a better sign than Cancer to initiate an emotional bond, while Libras do best at initiating relationships. Capricorns, the natural born CEOs of the Zodiac, are your best bet to begin a long-term plan or goal.
Strengths: Ambitious. Leadership. Taking action.
Areas of improvement: Selfish or self-serving. Micromanagers. Lack follow through.
The Fixed Signs
Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius
As the name suggests, the fixed signs of the Zodiac tend to be fixed in place (or on a goal), which can make them quite stubborn. Fixed signs are often called the “doers” of the zodiac lot because they work incredibly hard to carry out the plans and ideas of cardinal signs. They tend to uphold tradition, maintain responsibility, and don’t mind the sometimes monotonous work it can take to achieve a goal. They do not enjoy change or (what they consider) unnecessary shifts in plans but are quite loyal and will stick through until the end, regardless of how many roadblocks they encounter along the way. Fixed signs tend to have strong opinions which only further lends to their inflexibility and stubborn ways. The different fixed signs direct their “stabilizing” nature in a myriad of ways. Taurus works well within the material world, Leo in the power of persona, Scorpio in emotional intensity, and Aquarius in intellectuality.
Strengths: Loyal. Steadfast. Hard workers.
Areas of improvement: Stubborn. Inflexible. Opinionated.
The Mutable Signs
Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces
Every season has a beginning (cardinal), middle (fixed), and end. The mutable signs end the four seasons, and as such, are flexible and comfortable with changes more than any other signs of the zodiac. Because they come at the end of each season, they expect that change is coming and adapt themselves accordingly. These signs thrive off chaos, change, and chance; in other words, they are the life of the party! Fixed signs are always down to try something at least once. Unlike the fixed signs, they work best in situations that aren’t monotonous – variety is key! These signs are able to view things from multiple angles – they’re the most non-judgmental of the zodiac bunch. The different signs transform energy in different ways: Gemini with information, Virgo with skills, Sagittarius and enthusiasm, Pisces and their dreams and visions.
Strengths: Flexible. Non-judgmental. Wise.
Areas of improvement: Highly impressionable. Lack action (trouble channeling energy).
