Libra: Traits and Personality

Libra is the zodiac's diplomat. The Sun enters Libra at the September equinox, when day and night are equal, and stays until about October 22. A cardinal air sign ruled by Venus, Libra takes the initiative in relationships of every kind: it brings people together, looks for common ground and cares about fairness and beauty.

The symbol of Libra is the scales, the only zodiac symbol that is an object rather than a living creature. Astrology describes Libra as charming, sociable and thoughtful, always weighing one side against the other.

Strengths

• Diplomacy. Libra can calm a conflict and find the words both sides accept.
• Fairness. Libra wants everyone treated equally and will speak up for it.
• Charm. Libra puts people at ease and makes social life look effortless.
• Good taste. Libra has an eye for design, style and the details that make things harmonious.
• Partnership. Libra works well with others and gives real weight to their views.

Weaknesses

• Indecision. Seeing every side makes choosing one side hard.
• Avoiding conflict. Keeping the peace can mean not saying what Libra really thinks.
• People-pleasing. Libra may agree too easily and regret it later.
• Dependence on others' opinions. Libra can look outside itself for approval it could give itself.

Libra in love

Libra is the sign of partnership, and love matters to it a great deal. It courts gracefully, enjoys romance, beautiful settings and good conversation, and wants a relationship of equals. Libra is attentive and considerate, and it notices what its partner needs to feel appreciated.

The lesson for Libra in relationships is honesty over harmony. Saying "this bothers me" early keeps the balance Libra values far better than smoothing things over.

Libra at work

Libra does well where people, negotiation or aesthetics are central: law, mediation, diplomacy, design, fashion, the arts, client relations and human resources. It is a natural team builder and represents a group well to the outside world.

Harsh environments and constant conflict wear Libra down, and decisions made alone under pressure are its weak spot. Clear criteria and a trusted colleague to think aloud with help Libra decide with confidence.

Libra compatibility

Astrological compatibility starts with the elements and the distance between two signs. These are the traditional pairings for Libra; any real relationship depends on the two people in it.

• Libra and Aries: opposite signs: partnership meets independence. Strong attraction and a real balancing act.
• Libra and Taurus: both ruled by Venus and fond of beauty, but Libra wants lightness where Taurus wants security.
• Libra and Gemini: two air signs with endless conversation, shared friends and a sense of fun.
• Libra and Cancer: a square: both want harmony, but Cancer seeks closeness while Libra needs balance and space.
• Libra and Leo: sociable and romantic; Libra admires Leo's warmth, and Leo loves Libra's charm.
• Libra and Virgo: neighbors who both value quality; Virgo adds practicality, Libra adds grace.
• Libra and Scorpio: neighbors with different depths: Libra keeps things light, Scorpio goes all the way. Magnetic, if both adjust.
• Libra and Sagittarius: sociable and optimistic, a pair that loves new people and new places.
• Libra and Capricorn: a square of two cardinal signs: grace meets ambition. Shared goals make it strong.
• Libra and Aquarius: two air signs with shared ideals, respect for freedom and a meeting of minds.
• Libra and Pisces: gentle and romantic, both idealistic; clear decisions help where both would rather drift.

Read the Libra horoscope for today or learn more about the air signs.

Questions about Libra

What are the Libra dates?

The Sun is in Libra from about September 23 to October 22. The exact start and end shift by up to a day from year to year; the zodiac sign calculator checks them for your birth year.

What is the ruling planet of Libra?

Venus, the planet astrology links with love, harmony, beauty and relationships.

What is the opposite sign of Libra?

Aries. Both are cardinal signs; Libra stands for partnership and cooperation, Aries for the self and independent action.