Even though each zodiac sign is different, they all have negative qualities, and as a result, they may rub other the wrong way. And most people can relate to that — many of us have been involved in the occasional round of gossip, for example, told a lie, or kept a few secrets. That's what it is to be human, and all it means is we have plenty of room for improvement.
It's also true that each and every sign can go through phases, all thanks to the astrological goings on in the sky. "There is a definite polarity for each zodiac sign and under certain astrological transits — or even the changing of the Moon from sign to sign every few days — [it] can bring out the best or worst of each sign," author and astrologer Lisa Barretta, tells Bustle. "Someone who has always been a straight shooter can go through an astrological season of being shady, secretive, and undependable."
So take it all in stride. We all have these tendencies, to one degree or another. But as long as we notice them, and attempt to balance them out, they're usually nothing to worry about. With that in mind, here are a few of the more shady zodiac signs, according to experts, as well as what each one can do to keep themselves out of trouble.
1
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Gemini can be one of the more gossipy signs of the zodiac; they just can't help telling a juicy story, or dishing about something interesting they heard through the grapevine. "As Gemini continues to spread the news, each new listener gets an updated and spicier version of the story," Barretta says.
They can get themselves in trouble — which isn't surprising when gossip is involved — by slightly stretching the truth. As Barretta says, "They are sometimes seen as liars when in actuality they get caught up in the 'whisper down the lane' effect of their own recanting of news."
Gemini shouldn't try to shed their delightful storytelling ways, but they can try to be more careful when it comes to sharing news that isn't their own. By gossiping less, and making themselves the soul focus of their stories, they'll be far more trustworthy.
2
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Cancer is known as one of the warmest signs. But they have been known to occasionally use their good reputation to their advantage. "Don't be fooled by Cancer's soft, gracious nature," Barretta says. "This sign can be very manipulative when it comes to getting what they want."
But this can and likely will backfire. It's much healthier for Cancer to be honest about what they want, instead of trying to reach their goals in an unhealthy way.
3
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Leo may want to be the star of the show, but they can occasionally go about it in an unhealthy way. As Barretta says, "they feel all press is good press," so they may not stop to think about their actions hurting others, of if they're tarnishing their good reputation. "Leo [might] stir up a lot of drama, and as everyone is sorting through the confusion, they will elbow their way to the top," Barretta says.
Of course, creating drama isn't the only way to get attention, but Leo can sometimes forget that. The good news is, this is a bad habit they can easily break, once they allow themselves to see that positive attention can feel so much better than negative.
4
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
As a highly opinionated sign, Virgo can easily seem hyper-critical, and possibly even a touch rude. "They [might] criticize and nitpick until you lose your confidence and do things their way, which in Virgo's eyes is the only right way," Barretta says.
It's great that Virgo knows what they want out of life, and that they have the confidence to go get it. But it's helpful for them to remember that others are entitled to their opinions, too. In doing so, they may find that others are even more likely to work with them, and help them achieve their goals.
5
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Scorpio often has a tough time opening up and trusting others, and as such, can seem incredibly secretive and untrustworthy. They also have a way of predicting what others will do next, which can make them seem a bit spooky.
"They quietly observe every move you make and therefore are one step ahead of even your best laid plans," Barretta says. If Scorpio notices that others are keeping their distance, they can focus on being more honest about their feelings, and finding ways to trust others. It may not be easy, but the positive results will be worth the effort.
We all have traits that can be considered shady — including telling the occasional lie, gossiping, keeping secrets, and so on. But as long as we make an effort to balance these tendencies out with healthier habits, they definitely don't have to hold us back.
