Leo Zodiac Sign

Bold, intelligent, warm, and courageous, fire sign Leo is a natural leader of the Zodiac, ready to blaze a trail, vanquish injustice, and make a name for themselves along the way. Blessed with high self-esteem, Lions know that they possess enviable traits—and they’re proud of them. They don’t believe in false modesty and will be the first to praise themselves for a job well done. But Leo isn’t self-aggrandizing or unwilling to roll up those sleeves and do the work: this sign knows that in order to be respected and admired, he or she needs to put in the effort worthy of a leader.

But it’s not all hard work for Lions. Intense and energetic, Leos thrive on social interactions and have no problem making friends—although pinning them down to spend time with you is another story. Leos put themselves first, and will turn down a plan that doesn’t fit with their agenda or idea of fun. This trait has gained them an unfair reputation for arrogance. But on the flip side, when a Lion chooses to spend time with you, it’s genuinely because he or she wants to.

Leos are passionate in all pursuits, including relationships, and take it upon themselves to be the best partner you’ve ever had. They love grand gestures, and they want to show the world how attentive and caring they can be. They also can’t resist flashiness and often buy their partner the biggest and best presents. Leo is an adventurer, seeking to balance an intense life of social obligations and travel with plenty of downtime to relax and luxuriate. Work and outward appearances matter to this sign, and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to gain a job title or workplace status, even if it means temporarily sacrificing their precious leisure time.

Benevolent with their time and attention, Leos are never cliquey, always showing friendliness and politeness to everyone. While almost everyone else is entranced by the Leonine personality, Leos are their own harshest critic and consider each day a challenge to be the best, brightest, and boldest Lion they can be.

Leo’s Motto

“If you know the way, go the way and show the way—you’re a leader.”

Leos are amazing! Their name says it all:

L for leaders
E for energetic
O for optimistic

Leo’s Greatest Gifts

A natural leader, Leo’s very presence inspires others to be the best they can be. But with great power comes great responsibility. Leos love the pull of the limelight, and they’re occasionally swayed by what other people want (or expect) them to do. Although this sign has a loud inner voice, learning to listen to it—especially if it’s guiding them toward an unpopular move—is a lifelong lesson that will only make proud Lions stronger and more resilient.

Leo’s Greatest Challenges

Lions are well known for their loud roar. But learning to quiet down and listen is essential for Leos to reach their peak power—especially when they’re hearing a voice that doesn’t match their confidence and certainty. And while this sign thrives on their split-second decision-making and reaction skills, they might sometimes benefit from taking a few seconds, minutes, or even days before making their opinion known on a subject. Researching all sides, doing due diligence, and learning from other people’s experiences are all essential for a Leo to be as strong a leader as possible.

Leo’s Secret Weapon

A giving nature. Most people assume that Lions are all about themselves. But appearances are deceiving. A Leo’s secret weapon is his or her boundless capacity for love, affection, and generosity.

The 5 Top Reasons to Love Being a Leo

1. Whether you plan it or not, you’re always the center of attention. Might as well learn to revel in it!
2. You have a loud voice and are a pro in debating and getting people to see (and eventually agree) with your side. Using your voice for good is a passion.
3. You never run out of energy. As a Lion, a 20-minute catnap will fully recharge you so that you can dance all night long.
4. Although you’re one of the first signs to step up and speak out when you see injustice, your innately gentle spirit invites people to trust you.
5. You love the good life. You work hard for your money. Why not enjoy it by indulging in the best, most sparkly, boldest accessories, outfits, and ephemera that money can buy

Classic (Famous) Leos

Barack Obama, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mila Kunis, Daniel Radcliffe, J.K. Rowling, Chris Hemsworth, Jennifer Lawrence, Madonna

Leo Friendship Compatibility

Leo’s Friendship Style

“Friends” is one of Leo’s favorite words, and Lions are known for collecting friends—but not in a transactional way. Leo genuinely adores other people, and innately gets that the more people you know, the easier life can be. Leos easily hand out their phone number, are quick to follow or DM on Instagram, and will invite you to their happy hour five minutes after meeting you. But getting to know a Leo on a deeper level can be challenging. For starters, it’s tough to pin down someone with that kind of social schedule. And although Lions are friendly, they won’t share their inner emotional life until they’re really close with you. A Leo is a valuable ally in your social circle, and when he or she does reveal secrets, listen up and feel honored!

Best Friend Match for Leo: Sagittarius

Intense Archers find their match in Lions. Both fire signs, these two passionate individuals have boundless capacity for adventure. Leo loves a crowd, Sagittarius is happier going lone wolf, and their shared adventures are epic, whether it’s just this dynamic duo or a whole flash mob ignited by these fiery friends. With Leo and Sagittarius bringing out each other’s daring sides, and they make an unstoppable pair. They also have a lot in common below the surface. Both are experts in performing and being who people want them to be, yet they can let their guard down with each other. Who knows They might even forego adventure altogether and just sit in quiet conversation over a nice cup of tea.

How to Make Friends With a Leo

Be bold. Leos love people who aren’t afraid to live life out loud, and they’ll pay attention if you compliment them (because they also love compliments), make a joke, or stand out in a crowd.

How to Stay Friends with a Leo

Show up. Did Leo invite you to a party, along with his or her hundred other closest pals Leo loves making plans and going out, and will gradually weed out homebodies or others who don’t make the effort.

3 Reasons Why Leos Make Great Friends

1. Generous to a fault, Leo will always surprise you with spontaneous gifts, whether it’s a just a latte or something bigger.
2. This sign is the life of a party, which means that you’re automatically an A-lister when you’re spending time with a Leo.
3. A master connector, Leo will never leave your life. You may hear from a busy Lion only once in a decade, but in minutes you’ll be laughing about old times and catching up together.

Leo Love Compatibility

Leo’s Love Style

Passionate, intense, and fiery, Leo loves hard. For Leos, love itself—whether falling in love, thinking about love, making love—is one of their favorite things in the world. A busy Lion will always make sure that there’s plenty of time for passion in his or her life.

Falling in love is easy for Lions. But finding a person who can match them and staying in love can be tough. Leo loves flirting and dating, and has no problem penciling new names onto the calendar. This sign loves the rollercoaster that is romance, from butterflies before the first date to catching their breath after the first time in bed. But while Lions thrive on the novelty of dating, they can be easily disappointed if their date fails to live up to their outsize expectations. That’s why Leos occasionally finds true love with partners they may have dated or broken up with in the past.

In the bedroom, Leo is playful, and frequently imagines that he or she is performing. Your Leo lover may want to capture your shared carnal experience on video or, at the very least, have a few strategically placed mirrors in the room. Leo loves dirty talk (especially praise for a job well done). Giving and generous when it comes to sex, Leo can spend hours pleasuring a partner—as long as the partner returns the favor.

Best Zodiac Love Matches for Leo

Libra: This air sign can temper Leo’s fiery nature, and the two love socializing, enjoying the finer things in life, and making every day truly pleasurable.

Scorpio: Leo and Scorpio match each other in their intensity, and social Leo can prevent deep Scorpio from brooding too much. This fire and water sign are an instant power couple who can make amazing things happen if they work together.

Aries: Leo and Aries are energetic, passionate, and believe that too much of anything—be it wine, food, or sex—is never enough. This shared appetite can be awesome but also exhausting, since this pair will stay up all night in pursuit of their pleasures.

Pisces: Leo often sees Pisces as tame and can get exasperated by the Fish’s fluid, imagine-all-points approach to life. But if Lions can get past that, they may just find a match that will show them how good (and steamy!) slow and steady can be.

Favorite Date Nights for Leo

Leos adore going out, getting wined and dined, and generally hitting the town. Lions love to dress up, and getting ready is as integral to the experience as the actual event. This sign lives for compliments and has been known to flirt with the bartender or server. He or she isn’t trying to make you jealous—flirting is a kind of foreplay for Leo, and your Lion knows that you’re the one going home with him or her.

The Deal with Leo and Earth Signs

When fiery Leo connects with sensual earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) they can’t seem to let go. This puzzles Lions, who thrive on passion and intensity, and who assumes that earth signs are—well, too down to earth. Yet they come back to Bulls, Virgins, or Goats again and again. So can a true love match happen between a Leo and an earth sign

Totally! Earth signs can ground Leo and place this fire sign on a more even keel, which is essential for getting things done. And both have a humanitarian streak. While Leos feel for the whole world, they can have trouble taking the next step to make a difference, but earth signs help them actually commit to that volunteer opportunity they’ve talked about for ages.

The trick to make this match work is that both parties need to give a little. Leo needs to sacrifice a Friday night to hang out on the couch, and earth signs need to join their Leonine lover at that glam, dress-up, see-and-be-seen soiree. Finally, each needs to recognize their own weaknesses and allow their partner to pull more than their weight in certain areas. For example, earth signs can choose the house and do the budgeting, while Leo can decorate and make sure that it’s fabulous.

How to Seduce a Leo

If you have an eye on a Leo, pounce fast. Leos are oblivious to subtle cues and appreciate direct action. A kindhearted sign, a Leo will never be mean-spirited even if her or she doesn’t feel the same connection that you do—and putting it all on the table today may turn into a “yes” a few months down the line. But in order to make that Lion want to connect, here are a few ways to be bold:

Get physical. This sensuous sign loves touch. Allow your hands to brush and give hugs instead of handshakes when you meet. A compliment works, too, because Leos put a lot of time into crafting how they present to the world. They like when people take notice.

Make a plan. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride or a whitewater rafting experience, Leo loves to fully explore the world, especially on once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Plus, making a plan from start to finish makes your Leo feel taken care of, which this sign loves.

Be inclusive. Remember that Leo has a “the more, the merrier” attitude. Cornering them for a convo while a party rages around you will make a Leo feel caged. Invite others into the dialogue, because Lions think good socializing skills are incredibly attractive.

How to Make Love to a Leo

Sensuous and generous, Leo is one of the Zodiac’s sexiest signs, with a willingness to try anything once and a personal mission to make sure that his or her partner is satisfied every single time.

A Leo loves dirty talk, so narrating what you’re doing as you’re doing it is super sexy. Leos also love to hear that they’ve done a good job, and that you’re happy with their skills, so be generous with the carnal compliments.

Leo loves to look. If sex on video isn’t your thing, keep your Leonine lover happy by placing some mirrors near the bed. And this sign is very in tune with their sensuality, so don’t skimp on foreplay, naked massages, and worshipping every inch of their body. Remember, your Lion loves to purr just as much as he or she loves to roar. Exploring the gamut of sexual games, from slow, sweet coupling to biting and hair pulling, will keep a Leo happy and coming back for more.

If You Love a Leo Woman

Let her shine. A Leo woman loves to feel valued and nourished by her partner. Daily compliments, “just because” gifts, and date nights are essential to keeping her happy. Leo women also prize their friends, family, and work relationships. Don’t make her choose between you and someone else she loves—it’ll only end up hurting you. Know that when you fall for a Leo woman, you must love her friends and family, too.

How to Communicate With a Leo Woman

Be direct. Leos are so busy and with so many people in their orbit that they don’t have the time or energy to analyze subtext. If you want her to do something, or if you feel that there’s something she should be doing in the relationship, tell her. Passive-aggression will erode your relationship. And Leo doesn’t want you to worry about her feelings. Of course, you should say things in a loving, respectful way, but letting annoyance fester will only damage your bond.

If You Love a Leo Man

Believe in second chances. Naturally dominant and constantly on the make, Leo men see romantic possibilities everywhere. Even if they think they’re falling in love with you, it can be tough for them to actually turn down other options. That’s why Leos are infamous for putting the kibosh on a relationship just when it starts getting serious. But that doesn’t mean he’s gone forever. Sometimes, a Leo man needs to realize what he’s missing to truly commit. Understanding that—and believing in second chances—can pave the way for a happy (and long) pairing with a Leo.

How to Communicate With a Leo Man

Get over the past. A Leo man hates when past mistakes or transgressions come up, especially if he’s already apologized. To fight fair with a Leo man, focus only on the issue at hand, and let the past lie. Your Leo man will apologize when he’s in the wrong, but fishing for an apology, or any other passive-aggressive behavior, can harm your relationship.

Should You Marry a Leo

Yes! While dating may have ups and downs, breakups and makeups, once your Leo has made a decision, he or she is committed. Leo is passionate, loyal, and will always make your life together an adventure. A Leo will also ensure that your social life is active and that things will never feel boring or stale.

3 Signs That Leo Is Playing for Keeps

Fickle Lions may sometimes seem like they’re toying with your heart, but it can actually take a while for them to truly know that they want you. In the meantime, keep an eye out for these indicators of affection:

1. They want to spend time with you. Lions love groups, so when a Leo decides to forego running with the posse in favor of hanging out one-on-one all weekend, that means they’re serious about you.
2. They let you see their scruffy side. For Leo, appearances are everything. So when a Lion appears unshaven or without makeup, it’s a sign that he or she trusts you.
3. They get vulnerable. Yes, even Lions need to cry sometimes. Leo is an expert at masking emotions, but when this sign cries or breaks down in front of you, understand that you’ve been promoted to a position of importance in their life.

Leo Relationship Red Flags

When Leos get cagey about their plans, it could be a sign that they’re ready to move on. Ordinarily, Leo thinks nothing of automatically inviting his or her partner to all events, so if you suddenly hear, “No thanks, I’d rather go by myself,” something more could be going on. Lions consider sexuality integral to their vitality, so if yours frequently refuses sex or doesn’t seem in the mood, something could be going on below the surface.

How Leo Deals With a Broken Heart

It’s all about image for this sign, which means that Leos will quickly delete their ex from social media feeds, and make sure that to post a prominent party shot to show that they are just fine, thank you very much. In order to move on, Leo will try to pack his or her calendar with as many plans as possible, and will likely go on dates even just a few days after a breakup. It’s not because they don’t care, but moving on is the best way for Leos to move forward.

The Leo Lifestyle

For the Leo in Your Life

Best gifts: Designer shades, bling-y accessories, or exclusive gear that you have to special order. For Leo, it’s all about labels, and the more recognizable (and Instagrammable), the better.

Best spa package: Lions purr for gel manicures and pedicures, which they consider just routine maintenance. For cutting-edge treatment, gift Leos with a crystal therapy light session; they love being in the know and checking out the newest or coolest treatments.

Best Cocktail: Martini straight up, three olives. Leos have a powerful retro side, and they appreciate anything that brings them back to a more elegant, glam, detail-oriented time in history.

How Leo Unwinds

While Lions can be go-go-go as the situation demands (all-nighters aren’t unusual, either for work or pleasure), Leo prizes his or her downtime and loves lounging in bed, all day long (preferably on 1,000 thread count sheets). And beds aren’t exclusively for sleeping—this sign considers eating in bed, watching Netflix, or scrolling through Instagram (either with a partner or a cuddle buddy next to them) to be the height of luxury. A Saturday spent in bed is never a wasted Saturday, according to Leo.

Leo’s Social Life

A Lion loves being surrounded by friends, adulators, or even strangers who are about to become friends. Leos never shy away from RSVP’ing to a party without a plus one. They intrinsically know how to make friends and connect with people, and going to parties alone is a fun challenge to keep their friend-making skills razor sharp.

Leo’s Favorite Season

Born in the middle of summer, Leos adore the long hours of daylight, and they revel in making sure that every single moment counts. This summertime animal loves waking up early to catch the first glimpse of daylight, and often stays outside until the sun goes down. Ruled by the sun, Leo depends on warm weather getaways during colder months. For heat-loving Lions, it’s not an indulgence—it’s a necessity.

The Best Vacations for Leo

Bling it on! This sign loves vacations where they can indulge on all levels, from food to hotels to shopping. Leos are equally enamored by trekking through a foreign city and relaxing on a favorite beach. Wherever they go, they never turn off those Leonine qualities: making friends, having fun, and commanding the spotlight. Even on a romantic getaway for two, there should be plenty of people nearby for conversations—for Leo, part of the fun of getting away is connecting with new friends.

Leo’s Power Colors

Leo demands excellence in love, work, and life, and he or she always wants to be noticed. Not a wallflower, this sign dresses for success by ensuring all eyes will be on them. Leo’s best colors are:

Gold: Like a Lion’s glorious mane, a rich gold color also reminds Leos that they are the sun—everyone orbits around them.

Yellow: Slightly quieter than gold, yellow speaks to Leo’s sunny, optimistic personality and also taps into this sign’s generous, giving spirit.

Purple: The color of royalty and connected to the crown chakra, purple/violet reminds Leos of their higher purpose—they’re loud and demand to be heard because they have something important to say.

Red: This fire sign is drawn to a high-intensity red, which can magnify their passions, whether it’s a night on the town or a day in the boardroom arguing their beliefs.

These are the colors that Leo should avoid:

Brown and moss green: These earth-colored shades can anchor Leos and pull them down, rather than letting them move deftly from one project to another.

Blue: This color, affiliated with water, can put a damper on Leo’s fiery spirit, and should be avoided.

Silver or gray: The color of the moon, silver and gray are both at odds with Leo’s sun-seeking personality.

Leo Health & Wellness

Leo’s Ailments: Fevers
Leo’s Strengths: Fortitude
Leo’s Weaknesses: Supplements. Leo always wants to be the best, and can’t say no to a pill, diet, or drink that promises to maximize this sign’s potential.

The Best Fitness Routines for Leo

Leo loves the see-and-be-seen atmosphere of a trendy cycling class or barre class, and also finds new workout clothes to be the best kind of reward for keeping and staying motivated. Leo thrives on competition and gets lonely working out all alone. Having a running buddy, belonging to a Facebook fitness group, or working with a personal trainer will help Lions keep their fitness goals on point.

About Those Leo Temperature Spikes

The heart rules this fire sign, and because of that, their mental and physical experience is innately connected. Emotional issues will manifest by a temperature spike and a day spent in bed, and Leos are known for high fevers—often with few other symptoms. Talking through emotional problems, instead of just trying to forge through them, can help tame the Lion’s temperature and help him or her feel better.

The Top 10 Ways Leo Can Beat the Blues

When Leos are in a bad mood, everyone around them knows it. They manifest bad moods by snapping at people, being sarcastic, and even spending time solo—which only makes a social Leo feel worse. Here are ten productive ways for Lions to snap out of their mood and get back on track fast:

1. Get physical. Whether it’s running, walking, or doing a sweaty asana, Leo likes to sweat through the anger and emotions.
2. Get weepy. While Leos may not cry about what’s going on in their lives, a tearjerker movie can help them get the emotions out—and take their mind off their problems for a while.
3. Go out. Whether inviting themselves to a party with friends or going to a bar with strangers, socializing can get Lions back on their game.
4. Read old emails. Leos have a nostalgic streak, and reading old emails from friends and family can be a welcome reminder of the good times.
5. Cuddle a pet. Lions love other living things, and sometimes, a dog or cat can understand this sign and what he or she needs in a way humans just can’t.
6. Scream. Turn on the shower, close the windows, and let out a roar. It doesn’t matter if no one is around (in fact, it may be better to scream alone), but voicing all that frustration can make a Lion feel better. Seriously!
7. Claim bragging rights. Make a list of all the reasons why this particular Leo is just so amazing. Sometimes, Lions need to toot their own horn and brag a bit. No shame!
8. Stand up to injustice. Lions can’t handle seeing others in pain, and one way to use their anger and annoyance is to volunteer for a cause they’re passionate about.
9. Dance, dance, dance. Turn the music on, find the beat, stop thinking, and start moving.
10. Cook up a storm. Lions love feeling in control, and making a delicious meal in the kitchen can help them feel a little more like themselves.

Healing Herbs for Leo

Chamomile: This soothing herb, whether in a teacup, a bar of soap, or just sniffed, helps Leo calm down and focus on self-care. Chamomile is key for breaking those frequent fevers as well.

Lemon balm: Whether it’s in a soap, shampoo, lip balm, or just smelled, the cheery scent of lemon help Leos focus on their internal optimism and move forward, even during a crisis or a bad day. This herb helps cleanse the digestive system and improve circulation, which is key for this sign’s intense lifestyle.

Tarragon: This herb helps Leos focus on the connections that bind them to others, reminding them that no one, not even a Lion, is an island unto themselves.

Aloe vera: This cool, healing plant can help temper a Leo’s fiery personality.

Leo Spirituality

The Best Crystals for Leo: Garnet. This red stone can help Leos tune into their fire and focus that energy on something substantive and changing.

Leo’s Healing Mantra: “My inner voice is my guide.”

Leo’s Spirit Color: Gold, like a Lion’s lustrous coat, offers a strong connection for Leos. They feel its power in clothing or accessories, or focusing on the color during meditation.

Leo’s Spiritual Side

Passionately idealistic, Leos are constantly seeking meaning, and they’ll dig deep to find it for themselves. A Leo doesn’t blindly accept dogma—he or she wants reasons to follow a belief, and listening to an inner voice often guides them. Leos will read spiritual books and listen to spiritual leaders, but at the end of the day, this sign trusts that inner voice to send them in the best direction. Lions aren’t afraid of sharing their beliefs, and they may become powerful spiritual leaders for this reason. However, Leos will only share their beliefs if they truly embody them, and they won’t espouse something unless they’re already walking and talking it.

A Leo can find spirituality outside organized religion, and particularly loves going outside and experiencing nature in all forms. Spirituality is personal to Leos, and they may not have a name for what they believe, despite their deep conviction. This sign lives their spiritual beliefs in everything they do—for them, spirituality is just as evident in their work as it is in a spiritual practice. If a Leo is cut off from his or her spirituality, or isn’t living by a self-created ideal, it’s a reason for unhappiness. They need regular check-ins with their spiritual self, and they may find guided meditations, retreats, or spiritual gatherings helpful for creating accountability. Leos like accountability in their lives.

Leo’s Karma Boosters

Every sign has unfinished business to deal with. For Leo, it’s letting go of pride and becoming vulnerable. It takes a lifetime to learn these things, but every day is a chance to try out one of these strategies and become even stronger:

1. Listen up. Before Lions open their mouths, they should let someone else speak.
2. Cry. And not only that, Leos should let themselves cry in front of people. It’s a sign of strength.
3. Say, “I don’t know.” The truth is that sometimes Leos don’t know everything. No one does, and that’s okay!
4. Push someone else into the spotlight. They need Leo’s moral support! The Lion should practice saying, “I’m so happy for you.”
5. Give anonymously. Leos excel at doing an anonymous good deed, just because. Not getting credit can feel just as powerful as advertising what you’ve done.

Leo Career, Money & Success

Leo’s Career Mantra: “Just watch me.”

Leo’s greatest career strength: Passion. Leos bring fiery intensity to everything they do, including work, and when they believe in what they’re doing, there’s no stopping them.

Leo’s greatest career challenge: Teamwork. Lions like to do things themselves, and they have a certain way of getting things done. Letting others take the reins can be tough.

Leo’s Work Style

When a Leo loves work, there’s no stopping him or her. Passionate and idealistic, Leos aren’t driven by a paycheck (although they do love the luxuries money can buy). But a Leo who’s only going through the motions at work is not a happy Lion. This sign can and will throw themselves into a job, and it’s not uncommon for a Leo to work around the clock.

A perfectionist, Leo bristles at team members who seem to coast. This natural leader inspires others, but may not always be the easiest co-worker. That’s because Leos are so dedicated to their own vision that it may be hard for them to appreciate input and ideas from others. However, Leo is amazing at motivating others and at big-picture thinking, relying on other signs to do more detail-oriented steps.

Leos may change jobs several times in their careers. They love the learning curve of a new job, meeting and excelling at its challenges, and then moving on to an industry where they feel their talents will be of more use. As a visionary, Leo is good at making strategic leaps and is a natural entrepreneur.

Leo’s Dream Careers

Leos are natural performers, and they need to use these skills in the workplace in order to be happy and fulfilled. They make great leaders as well, whether it’s a small team or the whole corporation. Whatever the case, Leos needs to feel seen and heard on the job. The Lion would excel at any of these careers:

Entrepreneur: Leos have no problem working independently (as long as they can take time off to socialize). They also like having their fingers in all aspects of the business. Lions love the hard work—and reward—of watching their idea grow from the ground up, blossom, and bear fruit.

Director: Whether as a film director or ad agency art director, visual Leo “sees” things differently than other signs. Lions love taking a direction role to watch their very specific vision take shape.

Teacher: Not only are Leos fiercely intelligent, they’re also deeply passionate and love handing their wisdom down to the next generation. Leo excels at the college level, and loves mentoring the best and the brightest.

Tech Developer: Although not always detail-oriented, Leo brings creativity to the tech space, and excels at coming up with creative and out-of-the-box solutions. They also excel at recognizing where a new tech product can fit in the consumer market.

CEO: In-charge Leo basks in the spotlight, and is especially adept at making others want to work hard for him or her. Leo is also brave when it comes to making big changes, and isn’t afraid to make bold moves that may intimidate others in the industry.

Leo and Money

Leos work hard for the money, and they want you to know it. Leo loves luxury, whether it’s five-star hotels or designer labels, and isn’t shy about splashing out cash for quality. But Leo isn’t foolish. Although this sign appreciates spending money, they know how to think long-term, and there’s a strategy behind their spending decisions. Leo’s motto is “You can’t take it with you,” and Lions will crunch the numbers to live in the best style they can afford—without going into debt.

If You Work for a Leo Boss

While Leos seem strong on the surface, they also make decisions based on emotion, and their emotions are key allies that drive their business decisions. Knowing this can help you navigate working for a Leo boss. They will have bad days, and it’s key to learn their cues. For example, you should recognize the best (and worst) times to drop in on them with an idea, question, or issue.

Leo respects hard workers, and may be tough on you—but it’s only to make you stronger. Lions take things personally and want you to like them. And if you don’t like them, or if you undercut them, they will take it out on you. Leo loves the spotlight and appreciates genuine compliments. Letting your Leo boss know how much you admire him or her goes a long way toward winning major points.

Here are a few tips and tricks for an excellent working relationship with a Leo boss:

Show your vitality. Intense and passionate, a Leo wants to see your passion as well, both at work and in your personal life. Talking about your love of rock climbing on the weekend will impress them far more than telling them how you spent all weekend on the couch.

Own your mistakes. If you screw up, expect your Leo boss to get angry. But instead of cowering in your cube, apologize, and move on. While Leos might express emotion, they don’t want to see you doing the same—especially if it was your own problem.

Honor boundaries. A Leo boss may seem brusque, but he or she has a heart of gold. Even so, Leos in professional situations are aware of the line between “colleague” and “friend.” Trying to cross that line too quickly may result in prickly behavior.

Pay attention. Leo bosses like when their coworkers notice and follow the behavior they’re modeling. Does your boss come in early Does he or she favor certain language and procedures Do the same, and you’ll be rewarded.

Pull your weight. A Leo boss won’t do your work for you. Want a promotion First you have to ask for it, and then you have to prove that you’ve earned it.

What Success Means to a Leo

Leos want to be the best, and they want everyone to know that they’re the best. For a Leo, a job well done is a job well complimented. Lions love recognition, and even verbal compliments will motivate them. They love innovating because they get a thrill at being the first to do something. Want to get something done Say that it can’t get done, and then watch Leo get to work and prove you wrong.

Awakening the Inner Leo Lion

All Leos have a Lion inside them. But when they’re not living up to their Leo potential—sharing their opinions, living their truth, and pursuing their passion—that Lion can be hard to find. Here’s how to bring it out:

Roar. Yelling out loud—even in the shower when no one is home—can remind Leos just how powerful their voice really is.

Climb a big rock. Anything that takes Leos outside of their comfort zone and ratchets up their adrenaline is key.

Make a fire. Whether starting a blaze in the home fireplace or building a campfire in the wilderness, this fire sign is in their element. Anything that helps Leos tune into the natural world—and that involves heat and their power colors—will remind them just how strong they are.

Wear gold. A talisman made of gold or depicting a lion can remind Leo of his or her cosmic identity.

Play. Childlike Leo loves interacting with kids, and getting outside and running with the knee-high set can help put Leos back in their element.

Leo Parent & Child

The Best Toys for a Leo Child

Stuffed animals. Tiny Leo loves reigning over a crowd of loveys, and loves imaginative play, where he or she controls all the details and decides what happens next.

The Best Activities for a Leo Child

Dramatic Leo excels in acting classes. Enrolling young Leos in a Parent & Me movement class can help them get in touch with their bodies, and they’ll love using their bodies as an instrument to tell stories.

Books Every Leo Child Must Read

Leo kids love books about destiny—specifically, how to make your own destiny. It’s important for Leo children to know that, even though they’re small, they have a voice that can and should be heard.

Uni the Unicorn by Amy Krause Rosenthal. The story of a Unicorn who dreams about little boys and girls, this picture book will appeal to Leo’s love of fantasy and remind him or her that the world is bigger than it seems.

Lafcadio, the Lion Who Shot Back by Shel Silverstein. In this children’s classic, Leos will love to see their Lion archetype stand up for himself.

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. This historical classic, which takes place in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, is an ideal choice for Leo teens, who will always speak up in the face of danger and adversity.

The Best Names for a Leo Child

Brave, fearless, and unafraid of the spotlight, Leo loves attention and thrives on being a leader. A name that alludes to your little Lion’s take-charge, no-holds-barred personality will suit him or her well.

Names for Leo Boys: The lion is the king of the jungle, so looking to royalty for inspiration makes sense for naming this sign. Kingston is an obvious choice, although you can look to historic trailblazers such Barack (Obama), Nelson (Mandela), Pablo (Picasso), and Paul (McCartney).

Names for Leo Girls: Your little Leo demands attention from day one. Naming her after a woman in history whom you admire for breaking boundaries can be a great fit. Think Amelia (Earhart), Coco (Chanel), or Zelda (Fitzgerald). Or look up for inspiration: Stella, Luna, Ciel, or other sky-centric names are a great fit for your little star.

How to Parent the Leo Child

Passionate, idealistic, and prone to temper tantrums, the role of little Leos’ parents is to help this child get in touch with their emotions and learn to use them as a tool for connecting with others, with themselves, and with their passions. Seeing a temper tantrum as an early way for Leo to experiment with the power of his or her voice goes a long way in avoiding frustration.

As Leos grows older, they may get impatient with the disconnect between how they want the world (and the people in it) to be and how the world actually works. Leo’s parents need to help their child overcome this frustration without putting a damper on the little Lion’s idealistic spirit. They should understand that their Leo craves the spotlight and should learn how to embrace the power of high visibility to his or her advantage.

The parents of a Leo are sure to notice their child’s artistic gifts and might wonder if he or she should pursue professional performing at an early age. It’s an individual decision, of course, but the best option is always checking in with young Lions to make sure that their heart is in it.

Leo children may not care about the grades they earn in school, so it’s key for parents to have a big-picture conversation about how good grades can help them in life. Talking about goals and being flexible enough to revisit and reset them can be critical in motivating a reluctant Lion.

Here are more tips for parenting a Leo child:

Pour on the praise. All Lions crave attention and affirmation, and little Leos are no exception. Lion cubs need to know that their parents think the world of them, so be there for every soccer game and school play—and make sure to cheer loudly.

Support their natural inner leader. Since Leo children are born hardwired for leadership, focus on encouraging traits like kindness, fairness, and honesty. From a young age, they should see the importance of becoming benevolent leaders instead of little bullies.

Prepare their runway. If you want peace, let your young Leo dress him- or herself. You’ll notice early on that Leo children have strong ideas about how they want to look, so stand aside and prepare to be amazed by what this kid comes up with.

All About the Leo Teenager

As Leos hit their teens, expect the situation to get a bit rocky. First things first: Leos are incredibly loyal, and family means everything to them. Still, because family is their bedrock, they’re going to test boundaries. And (annoyingly!) they’re likely to do it with logic and rhetoric. You may have a hard time explaining “why” a rule is in place, so don’t get caught in back-and-forth discussions—just lay down the law if it’s important to you.

While Leos will experiment, they’re unlikely to be swayed by peer pressure. Your Lion is usually that teen who’s friends with of kids from widely different groups, and while Leos may belong to (or lead) a clique, they won’t be mean to those outside of it. Leo is respected by peers, and may be interested in a student leadership position.

Leo embraces family and may turn down social events with their peers in favor of hanging out at home. While Leos love to socialize, they also need plenty of time to recharge. A Saturday spent in bed isn’t lazy, no matter what it looks like. To perform at peak capacity, Leos need sleep (and relish sleeping in). Let them!

A Leo teen likes:

Hanging out with family: Let them babysit! You can also recruit them for family chores and projects.

Being responsible for their own schedule: So what if they want to sleep all Saturday They know how to juggle their time.

Acting older: A Leo teen may hang out at the local college campus, because Leos love trying on adulthood for size.

A Leo teen dislikes:

Doing things against their will: An unhappy Leo will make things unhappy for everyone, so choose your battles about what they “have to” do and what they “must” attend.

Having someone else shop for them: Give them a budget and cash, and let them buy what they like.

Early mornings: You may have to prod them out of bed on a school day, or come up with a reward system—like use of the family car—that will motivate them.

The Leo Parent

Brave, intelligent, and fiercely protective of family, Leo parents think of their family as their “pack” and will do anything to make sure that the pack is protected and happy. A Leo parent wants to be the best, appreciates being praised for parenting skills, and sometimes does things because they “look” right instead of being the best fit for the family. Leo parents need to remember the adage about putting on their own oxygen mask first: When they’re happy, so is their family.

Leo parents are loud (sometimes to the embarrassment of their kids at back-to-school time), opinionated, and fiercely in love with their offspring. Mommy or Daddy Lions sometimes have a hard time appreciating how their child is different from them, and they may get exasperated when their child handles a situation differently than they might. A shy child can be a mystery to a Leo. Why can’t this one voice opinions the way Mom or Dad does On the flip side, Leo parents are in tune with their own emotions, and that understanding, appreciation, and discussion of emotions may be their most important gift to their offspring. Teaching that no emotion is “bad” or “off limits” will raise in-tune, sensitive children who aren’t afraid of talking to their parents.

How a Leo Can Be a Great Parent to Any Kid in the Zodiac

How does a Leo’s personality mesh (or clash) with their offspring’s Here’s how!

Leo Parent, Aries Child

Natural leaders, Lions and Rams will occasionally butt heads. Luckily, both signs’ commitment to honesty and talking things out can overcome any hurdle.

Leo Parent, Taurus Child

Leo parents sometimes get exasperated by their baby Bulls, especially by that stubborn Taurean insistence on doing things their way. But these two physical signs love to cuddle and have plenty of love between them.

Leo Parent, Gemini Child

A Leo parent is sometimes mystified by their Gemini’s mutable emotions. Leo often sees things in black and white, so they can learn a lot by observing how their baby Gemini defines and navigates all the shades of gray.

Leo Parent, Cancer Child

Leo parents have an almost psychic connection with their Cancer children. Passionate Leos can help draw sensitive Cancers out of their shell and help them voice their thoughts.

Leo Parent, Leo Child

Passionate and intense, Leo parents and children drive each other crazy, and are also each other’s best advocates. Both are unused to sharing the spotlight; together, they learn to take turns and listen to alternative opinions.

Leo Parent, Virgo Child

Leo parents sometimes worry that their Virgo kid is a bit too cautious. But the more they observe their little Virgo, the more fascinated they’ll be with Virgo’s step-by-step plan about pretty much everything. Leo can help Virgo learn to love a few moments in the spotlight.

Leo Parent, Libra Child

Little Libra loves their Leo parent’s certainty. This model of surety in all things can make Libras brave enough to voice their emotions without worrying what other people think. Both signs are adventurous, and Libra kids adore their Leo parents—and the feeling is mutual!

Leo Parent, Scorpio Child

Passionate and intense, Leo and Scorpio understand each other’s emotional rollercoasters, and they have a very tight connection. This includes driving each other crazy—but isn’t that what parent-child relationships are all about

Leo Parent, Sagittarius Child

Playful and fun, these two fire signs make a great parent-child combo. Whether it’s reading stories in funny voices, playing dress up, or eating breakfast for dinner, Leo parents love finding the whimsical aspects of childhood—just like their Sag kids.

Leo Parent, Capricorn Child

Leo loves Capricorn’s dedication, but just wishes the little Goat could try to have just a bit more fun. A Leo parent is always up for showing Capricorn a good time, while a Capricorn kid can remind Leo that slow and steady sometimes wins the race.

Leo Parent, Aquarius Child

Social and creative, Leo parents and Aquarius kids love parties and play dates. Lion moms and dads may have to adjust to their tiny Aquarian’s independent streak. But it doesn’t mean they don’t love you, Leo!

Leo Parent, Pisces Child

Both emotional signs, Leo and Pisces can sometimes have issues with understanding each other. However, both value creativity and imagination, and they may find that they communicate best when talking about plays, poems, and movies that they’ve both enjoyed.