The Tenth Zodiac

Capricorn, the tenth sign of the zodiac, is all about hard work. Those born under this sign are more than happy to put in a full day at the office, realizing that it will likely take a lot of those days to get to the top. That's no problem, since Capricorns are both ambitious and determined: they will get there. Life is one big project for these folks, and they adapt to this by adopting a businesslike approach to most everything they do. Capricorns are practical as well, taking things one step at a time and being as realistic and pragmatic as possible. The Capricorn-born are extremely dedicated to their goals, almost to the point of stubbornness. Those victories sure smell sweet, though, and that thought alone will keep Capricorns going.

The Goat symbolizes Capricorns, and an apt mascot it is. Goats love to climb to the top of the mountain, where the air is clear and fresh. In much the same way, Capricorns want to get to the top of their chosen field so that they can reap the benefits of success; namely fame, prestige and money. Getting to the top isn't always a walk in the park, however, so it's likely that Goats will ruffle a few feathers along the way. These folks can indeed be domineering, even egotistical, on their route to the top. They'll tell you it's part of being a leader with bright new ideas (in keeping with the Cardinal Quality assigned to this sign).

Capricorns are industrious, efficient, organized and won't make a lot of waves. They are scrupulous with details and adopt a rather conventional posture in business and in life. These folks feel best playing it safe, since this is a fail-safe way to get to the top -- eventually.

Thankfully, Capricorns are patient, too, and are happy to wait for their ship to come in. The flip side to this staid behavior is that Goats can become quite unforgiving of those who aren't as diligent or ambitious as they are. Capricorns need to remember that they do need allies along the way, ambitious or otherwise. In any case, once Capricorns receive the recognition and social status they so fervently crave, it's likely that all will be forgiven.

Capricorn is ruled by Saturn. In ancient Roman mythology, Saturn was the father of many of the gods. Consider him top dog, if you will, and then you'll see a parallel to Capricorns. Those born under this sign also want to be the top dog, and they're smart enough to know that the title won't simply be handed to them. Caps are happy to work for it, and luckily they possess enough discipline and sense of responsibility to get them there. Capricorns tend to be mature and are amply blessed with common sense, two more qualities which help their success-driven endeavors.

With any kind of luck (make that considerable work), Caps will find themselves on that top step, but they should also remember those who have helped them on their quest. They are traditional (but not quite the button-down stiffs some would suggest) and somewhat inhibited, prompting others to wonder if they can ever enjoy success and its rarefied air. Rest assured, these folks will be smiling inside.

The element associated with Capricorn is Earth. No big surprise there! Caps are down-to-earth in the sense that they're not interested in wild ideas or round-the-world dreams. They would much rather stay put and get to work. Remember, these are the businesspeople of the zodiac, so in their sensible and economical way, they'll get up every morning and see to it that their job is done to the highest degree of quality possible. While Caps can occasionally get a bit materialistic and greedy (they just want a reward for all their hard work), they are far too dignified and practical to get carried away. Plus, they love tradition and reserve, and want to appear polite and friendly.

A Capricorn at rest (yes, there is such a thing) enjoys leisurely sports, like golf and croquet -- so long as they have a chance to win! Playing with a crew is also nice, since it brings to mind their beloved workplace. Team colors for a Capricorn are likely to be earthy brown and khaki, much like the classic, relaxed slacks they like to wear. Sporty Caps also need to watch their teeth and knees, and they shouldn't be too daring, lest they break some bones. When it comes to love, Capricorns are ever devoted and never emotive.

The great strengths of the Capricorn-born are their willingness to work hard and their determination to succeed. Their ambition is boundless, yet they are cautious, responsible and always play fair. That's why their successes are all the more sweet.