If you've ever sought cosmic guidance, you may be aware of how astrology can help deepen your understanding of yourself. And if your birthday falls between Aug. 22 and Sept. 22 (give or take a day or two, depending on the year), that means you're a practical Virgo. As a mutable earth sign, Virgos possess a keen eye for detail and a practical approach to life, which makes them level-headed and poised. On the other hand, their aim for perfection can often translate to being overcritical — but what matters is that their heart is in the right place. Down to earth, organized, and altruistic, one of the key Virgo traits is that they're always lifting up others to be the best versions of themselves.
To learn more about Virgo zodiac signs' personality traits and what makes them tick, POPSUGAR spoke with professional astrologer Imani Quinn, coauthor of "Astrology SOS".
Virgo Traits: They're Pragmatic
Earth signs rule material comforts — including finances, nature, and possessions — and that's what gives Virgo the practical approach to life that they're known (and loved) for, according to Quinn. Virgos come equipped with a solid life blueprint, but as a mutable sign, they also have a backup plan in case things go awry. They know life can get messy, and that practical mindset is what helps them keep their cool in all types of situations.
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"You can find Virgos solving problems with spreadsheets and to-do lists," Quinn explains. "They aren't scared of the tedious work and attention to detail it takes to build consistently, which is why they are good at playing the long game."
Virgo Traits: They're Perfectionists
Not only are Virgos associated with the sixth house of health and wellness, but they're also ruled by Mercury — the planet responsible for all of our day-to-day functions like communication, technology, and travel. That said, you can imagine that (like their house and planetary rulers) they have an affinity for logistics and details. They often see the cracks in plans, ideas, and details that others tend to miss — giving these organized signs Monica Geller-level perfectionism. "Virgos aren't here for frivolous acts or making mistakes," Quinn explains.
Virgo Traits: They're Excellent Communicators
Whether through text, via email, or at a podium, Virgos have a natural ability to express themselves. They don't have an issue with speaking their mind — no matter how direct or unfiltered. "Mercury is responsible for our daily communication — dotting our I's and crossing our T's when signing contracts — all strengths of Virgos," says Quinn. Although they can come across as blunt, you can always count on a Virgo to have good intentions, even when they present you with brutal honesty.
Virgo Traits: They're Always Improving
Because of their association with the sixth house, Virgos tend to prioritize the health and well-being of themselves and those around them. (If you have a friend who's always been effortlessly dedicated to eating their vegetables, meditating, and sweating on the regular, they just might have some Virgo in their birth chart.)
Factor that in with being a mutable sign, and it's no wonder why self-improvement and growth are important to them. If it seems like Virgos are never satisfied or they're prone to giving tough love, it's because "what some may see as judgmental and perfectionism, they see as hard work ethic and showing up as the best version of yourself," Quinn explains. Think of constructive criticism as their special Virgo love language.
