Aries, the first sign of the Zodiac is 'headstrong.' Get to know their personality more

Ares is the god of war, known in the popular imagination as a crusader, unafraid of what stands before them. It also happens to be the name given to one of the twelve Zodiac signs, though the spelling differs slightly. The Aries zodiac shares in the identity of the leader, a strong persona and a true fire sign. 

What kind of person is an Aries? What are their weaknesses and strengths? How might they show up in the workplace?

In conversation with astrologer Cleo Neptune, USA TODAY explores the key personality traits of Aries sun signs. Neptune says he loves astrology in part because it is a wonderful vehicle of self-discovery and of relating to others. Of the many young people that have found interest in the art of astrology in recent years, Neptune says: "Astrology just offers another perspective and is very accessible."

Learn more about each Zodiac sign

Pisces | Aquarius | Capricorn | Sagittarius | Scorpio | Libra | Virgo | Leo | Cancer | Gemini | Taurus | Aries

Is it in the stars? Free Daily and Monthly Horoscopes

When does Aries season start? 

The dates of Aries season are March 21-April 19. It is a fire sign, symbolized by the ram. 

Key personality traits of Aries

Neptune says Aries are natural leaders. "They want to lead," he explains, "It’s kind of like this raw childlike energy of 'let's do it.'" They have no inhibitions and are often eager to get things done in a hurry. 

"They get things done very quickly," Neptune says, "I would also say that their drive is unmatched." However, he reminds that this quality can also be flipped and framed as impatience with a need to take things into their own hands. "I haven't met a patient Aries in my life," Neptune jokes. 

Aries are also carefree in ways, Neptune explains. "They can be a little bit naive because they jump into things head first and the planning is not always there, but they definitely get things done," he says. They're also a helping sign, with quick reaction times and killer instincts, Neptune expands. 

Career

In the workplace, Neptune says Aries are often the first people to volunteer for a task, in fact, they may even feel an obligation to get things done first and have trouble asking for help. 

"They definitely can be a little impatient with their coworkers," Neptune explains, for example, if a task is assigned to them and another coworker and the coworker is not getting things done, they may take it upon themselves to finish it on their own.

They are both consistent and reliable, he says, but can sometimes fill their plate up too much, or bite off more than they can reasonably chew. 

Relationships

Neptune calls Aries' relationship style "surprisingly fair and patient." Citing the practice of derivative astrology, Neptune says Aries are actually quite like Libra signs in their desire for equality and balance in a relationship. 

"Very much tit for tat," Neptune says of Aries, "doing what's fair, balancing out their partners or their friendships and being advocates for their friends." However, sometimes in a rush to equalize their relationship, if their partner isn't giving them enough an Aries will end up overcompensating, he explains. 

When it comes to people they care about and consider family though, Aries give mother bear energy, Neptune says.

Can astrology determine relationships? How much the stars can tell us about love.

Weaknesses 

Aries can be somewhat headstrong. Their desire to lead and to get things done first and quickly can cause them to take charge, and be a bit impatient, Neptune explains.

Aries can also be a bit naïve, in an act-before-you-think type of way, he says. Their carefree attitude, made in part by the fact the sun in Aries is exalted and Aries therefore effortlessly bask in their sun energy, can mean no healthy limit on inhibitions. 

Aries can also spread themselves a bit thin both by overcommitting to projects at work and by overcompensating in relationships if they feel they aren't getting enough from their partner. 

Strengths 

This is a very strong-willed sign, Neptune says. In fact, he goes so far as to classify them as defenders of justice, referencing the early '90s reality TV classic "What would you do?" The show posed scenarios designed for bystanders to step in and create a show of good character. Aries are the types to always step in, Neptune explains. 

"Aries are very much concerned with fairness in motivation and action," he says, adding that they do not stand idly by to bullying or targeting of someone who is defenseless.

Aries are also strong defenders of their close relationships and reliable coworkers who are the first to offer help in most scenarios. 

New to Astrology? We've got you covered. Explore more Zodiac coverage and find out what the stars say about you with USA TODAY's astrological sign series.