Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn have more in common than you might think.
- Each zodiac sign lands in one of three “modalities” or qualities: cardinal, fixed, or mutable.
- The cardinal signs each kick off a new season. They include Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn.
- They're characterized as self-starters and trendsetters.
If you’re dipping into the world of astrology, you probably already know there are 12 zodiac signs that make up the astrological wheel. What you may not know, however, is that the 12 signs all land in one of three “modalities” or qualities: cardinal, fixed, or mutable.
The modalities represent the phases of the astrological year, with the cardinal signs beginning every season (i.e. Cancer kicking off summer), fixed signs falling in the middle of the season (i.e. Leo for high summer), and the mutable signs ending the season (i.e. Virgo wrapping up summer and transitioning into fall).
Here, we’re diving into the cardinal signs—AKA the trailblazers of the zodiac—which are none other than Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn. Seem like an odd grouping? They have more in common than you might think, thanks to their shared modality, but it’s also what can cause them to clash. Here’s why, plus more on getting to know the cardinal signs.
Cardinal sign traits
When you think about the energy it takes to get the ball rolling and start something new, that’s the energy cardinal signs bring to the table. Aries begins the spring season and astrological new year, Cancer kicks off summer, Libra marks the autumn equinox and start of fall, and of course, Capricorn ushers in winter.
While it might seem like these signs don’t have much in common (and they can tend to clash), they all have a self-starter quality to them that makes them easy to spot. They’re also known for being trendsetters, or at the very least, early-adopters.
These are the people who probably take the lead on projects at work—or they’re already your boss. They’re natural leaders and have no problem taking charge.
Of course, just because they share a modality doesn’t mean these four signs will get along with each other. In fact, signs of the same modality form “squares” (harsh 90-degree angles) on the zodiac wheel, which definitely causes some friction.
Ironically enough, your opposite sign (AKA “soulmate sign”) will always be the same modality as you (which are Aries and Libra, and Cancer and Capricorn, in the case of the cardinal signs). In other words? The cardinal signs tend to have a love-hate vibe amongst each other.
As you might have noticed, each of them is a different element; Aries represents cardinal fire, Cancer is cardinal water, Libra, cardinal air, and Capricorn, cardinal earth. With their different elements, the way these signs express their cardinal traits differ too.
Here’s a breakdown on all four cardinal signs for more information.
Aries
Aries is the very first sign of the astrological year, marking the spring equinox and the beginning of the spring season. This sign is fittingly represented by the Ram—perfect imagery for the reckless Aries who slams head first into everything they do.
These folks represent cardinal fire, with fire being an element of energy, action, and impulse. Aries is, of course, known as the most impulsive sign of all, with an almost childlike exuberance towards life.
They have no fear, which makes them extremely uninhibited. While this does give them a reputation for being brave, they can also seem too bold for their own good. But that’s the cardinal way!
Cancer
Up next we have sweet and intuitive Cancer, which represents cardinal water. Cancer marks the summer solstice, and is a sign of deep emotional attunement and sensitivity. But like the crab that represents it, Cancer won’t hesitate to pinch you if you disturb them in their shell.
Water is the element of emotion, after all, so where Aries is a sign of initiating action, Cancer is a sign of initiating emotion. They’re even ruled by the moon, so let’s just say their emotions can change often—and quickly.
And in terms of how they take the lead, think of Cancer like the archetypal mother of the zodiac. They set the emotional stage of any space (for better or worse), and they also strive to create and lead nurturing environments.
Libra
Marking the halfway point of the astrological year—the fall equinox—we have Libra. And as a sign all about balance and justice, that is what Libra is always trying to embody and encourage, both in themselves and others.
Libra represents cardinal air, with air being an element of intellect, communication, and yes, socializing. These are the social butterflies who are always getting the gang together, looking for the hottest spot in town, and absolutely carrying the group chat on their back.
Plus, if you’ve ever clocked a Libra’s closet, you might have noticed these folks are the trendiest of them all. They are ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, so it only makes sense that their cardinal pursuits would have a Venusian flair.
Capricorn
Last but not least, we have Capricorn, rounding out the cardinal signs and beginning the winter season. Ruled with the planet of discipline, Saturn, it’s all too fitting that Capricorn is destined to push through their early dredges of winter in order to reach success.
Represented by the sea goat, Capricorn combines swimming to the depths for spiritual wisdom, and a quest to the top of the mountain. “Eyes on the prize” is their motto, and they’ll stop at nothing to get it.
With Capricorn as an earth sign, their cardinal earth quality is all about ushering in real, tangible results. No need for emotional fluff, fiery passion, or even over-thinking—a Capricorn will simply take that first physical step.
Cardinal vs. Fixed vs. Mutable
Now that you know all about the cardinal signs, you might be wondering what the deal is with the fixed and mutable signs. Here’s a quick look:
- Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn): Starting the season with trailblazing energy and enthusiasm.
- Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius): Landing in the middle of the season with hard-working, sometimes stubborn energy.
- Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces): Ending the season by tying up loose ends and transitioning to the next.
The fixed signs have a reputation for being a bit unyielding, but you’d have to be if you wanted to power through your designated season. They tend to prefer structure, routine, and organization over trying new things, and are also typically diligent, determined, and loyal.
The mutable signs, meanwhile, are known for being the adaptable signs of the bunch. Their whole role is wrapping up their season and preparing for what’s to come next. They’re often open-minded and adventurous, but can be a bit “all over the place” when it comes to their routine.
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