Aries is the first sign of the zodiac and represents new beginnings. As the first fire sign, Aries energy is assertive, enthusiastic, and action-oriented. Those born under this sign are natural leaders who are unafraid to blaze their own trail. However, Aries is also known for being impulsive and quick-tempered. Understanding what influences and controls the Aries nature can provide insight into how to best work with their dynamic energy.
Mars, the God of War, Rules Aries
In astrology, each zodiac sign is ruled by a planet. For Aries, that planet is Mars. Mars was known as the God of War in Roman mythology, famous for his fierce energy on the battlefield. He represented masculinity, aggression, and the fighting spirit. Mars carries these same attributes into its astrological influence. This helps explain why Aries natives are often courageous, determined, and competitive by nature. They are not afraid to start battles and fight for what they want. The influence of Mars brings passion and drive to those born under its bold red sign. However, it can also make Aries impatient and argumentative if this energy is not channeled constructively. Overall, the key to understanding what controls Aries is recognizing the forceful martial energy that guides this sign.
Aries is a Cardinal Sign
In astrology, the 12 zodiac signs are divided into modalities known as cardinal, fixed, and mutable. Aries is part of the cardinal modality, along with Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn. Cardinal signs kickstart new cycles and initiate change. This explains the trailblazing nature of Aries energy. Cardinal signs are motivated self-starters who don’t need others to show them how to begin. They take action on their own initiative. As the first of the cardinal signs, Aries possesses an intense drive to get the ball rolling on new endeavors. This propensity to take the lead leaves little room for stagnation. While cardinality keeps them proactive, it can also predispose Aries to impulsiveness. Overall, the cardinal quality is key to understanding the assertive and spontaneous nature of Aries.
Aries Rules the 1st House of Identity
In astrology, the zodiac is divided into 12 houses that represent specific life areas. Aries is linked to the first house which governs identity, self-expression, appearance, and first impressions. This helps explain the strong sense of self and need for independence typically seen in this sign. Aries wants to blaze their own trail rather than follow another’s lead. They strive to be trendsetters who establish a unique personal identity. This desire translates into bold fashion choices, dynamic hobbies, and assertive communication styles. However, their forceful personality can also come across as aggressive or domineering at times. The connection to the first house boosts the autonomous and pioneering qualities of Aries, allowing them to put their own signature on life.
Aries is Motivated by Competition and Challenge
More than most signs, Aries thrives on challenge and competition. The desire to be number one fuels their efforts to achieve. Team sports, races, contests, and other opportunities to prove their abilities appeal to their competitive spirit. Aries loves to test their limits through activities that push them out of their comfort zone. They are passionate self-starters who don’t need outside motivation once engaged in the thrill of the game or battle. This competitive drive both energizes and controls Aries behavior. It makes them committed competitors but can also lead to aggressive “win at all costs” tactics if channeled constructively. Understanding their motivation to win helps shed light on the Aries quest for achievement.
Independence is Critical to Aries
Aries values their sense of independence above all else. They deeply resent any restrictions on their freedom to choose their own path. This contributes to their reputation as a sign that resists authority and dislikes commitment. Self-sufficiency is an important theme for Aries. They may enjoy the excitement of new relationships, but prolonged partnerships often make them feel confined. Similarly, traditional corporate jobs usually stifle their free-spirited natures. Aries needs the space to follow their instincts and move at their own pace. Their independent streak makes them natural pioneers but also increases tension in situations that try to limit their autonomy.
Aries Has Strong Survival Instincts
Aries energy is ruled by raw survival impulses. This sign is hard-wired to be self-protective and put their own needs first when threatened. They are much like the ram who charges forward with its horns to withstand danger. This primal survival instinct gives Aries courage in the face of adversity but can also make them defensive. They protect their interests fiercely, which can come across as aggressive self-preservation. Aries often views the world through an “us versus them” lens. Their deeply ingrained survival skills serve them well in careers like entrepreneurship, sports, and first response services. However, their heightened defenses also need tempering through spiritual growth and compassion.
Positive Traits of Aries
- Courageous
- Enthusiastic
- Competitive
- Passionate
- Direct
- Pioneering
- Assertive
Negative Traits of Aries
- Impulsive
- Impatient
- Aggressive
- Defensive
- Controlling
- Domineering
- Combative
Aries Weaknesses Can Be Transformed
The more challenging traits of Aries reflect their shadow side. However, consciousness evolution can help transform those weaknesses over time. Impatience can be shifted to perseverance. Defensiveness can evolve into openness through inner work, maturity, and experience. Anger can give way to assertion. Rather than suppress their so-called flaws, Aries should acknowledge them and then consciously re-channel that energy into more constructive outlets. For example, impatience with obstacles can be redirected into diligently finding solutions. With self-awareness, the primal drives of Aries can be refined and purified rather than repressed.
Aries Thrives on Motivation and Feedback
Aries is most successful when inspired by meaningful goals to work towards. They need a constant source of challenge and motivation to feel energized. Without a clear target, their assertive efforts can get scattered and diffuse. Goals focus their drive and determination. However, Aries also needs positive feedback and recognition of their achievements to stay on track. Constructive criticism is valued but too much negative critique can deflate their enthusiasm. Praise, appreciation and celebrating wins keeps their fire burning bright. Understanding their need for direction and acknowledgement fosters productivity.
Aries is Learning Patience and Objectivity
For Aries to evolve as souls, developing patience and objectivity represents an important next step. Impatience stems from their Cardinal need to initiate action without delay. However, slowing down to assess situations first leads to better outcomes. With maturity, Aries learns to pace themselves through challenges rather than force quick results. Objectivity is also a lesson for Aries. Their instinct is to follow their gut and fight for what they want. But cultivating perspective by getting out of their own viewpoint leads to greater wisdom. Tempering their extremes through patience and objectivity helps Aries progress.
Conclusion
In summary, Aries energy is powerful and dynamic, influenced most strongly by their planetary ruler Mars and cardinal modality. This imbues Aries with a fierce and competitive nature, but also predisposes them to impulsiveness. Their ruling first house drives them to forge an individual identity and live authentically. Core motivations like achieving first place, vanquishing opponents, and safeguarding their independence strongly control Aries behavior. However, consciousness evolution helps temper their primal survival instincts over time. With maturity, Aries can redirect their potent energy toward enlightened goals and compassionate leadership. By understanding what controls Aries, we can better appreciate the dynamic contributions of this bold sign while supporting their higher development.