Leo: 23 July - 22 August*
On the upside:
Leo is honourable, principled and truthful, creative, distinctive and individualistic. He or she is also very determined: tell a Leo they can’t do something and they’ll immediately set about proving they can! Although usually extrovert, some Leos can be introvert, as they fear not being loved and appreciated. Mediocrity is a horror for Leos, and they are usually at the centre of attention in one way or another. Where friends and loved ones are concerned, Leos love to be lavish with their gifts, their affections, and their time.

Possible downsides:
Being such idealistic souls can leave Leos more open than most signs to getting hurt and becoming disillusioned with others. Like Taurus, Leo is a fixed sign, so the lion in your life is not likely to take kindly to change and can be very stubborn at times. Having a larger than average ego, Leos can often overlook the feelings of others as they are so wrapped up in themselves. Perfectionism is another Leo downside: only the best will do, and never mind the cost! Don’t expect to be able to share your affections around either, Leo is a jealous beast and three is definitely a crowd!

The bottom line …
Leo likes nothing better than to feel needed, loved, and recognised as the unique individual he or she invariably is. A little praise or thanks goes a very long way with this sign, and if you’re happy to give it, you’ll be showered with the love, loyalty and generosity of the lion in return.

A Leo might have said:
"Let me have my own way exactly in everything, and a sunnier and pleasanter creature does not exist." Thomas Carlyle.

Famous Leos:
Gene Rodenberry; Madonna; Steve Martin; Princess Anne; Bill Clinton; Dustin Hoffman; Whitney Houston; Coco Chanel; Antonio Banderas; Belinda Carlisle; Arnold Schwarzenegger.

*The Sun goes into and leaves each zodiac sign at slightly different times each year. As a general convention, Sun sign columns use the approximate date range for each sign. If you are unsure which sign your Sun is in, ask an Astrologer.