13 Reasons Why Aries Are So Difficult

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Astrologer Aliza Kelly shares some of Aries’ most challenging traits

Co-authored by Aliza Kelly and Devin McSween

Last Updated: December 23, 2025 Fact Checked

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• Reasons Why Aries Are Difficult
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• Which signs get along with Aries?
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• Which signs don’t get along with Aries?
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• About Aries
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• Video

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Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and is known for being a fiery and energetic trailblazer because of it. They’re a fun, exciting, and beloved sign, but they do have a reputation for being difficult to deal with or be around sometimes. Curious to learn why? In this article, we spoke to professional astrologers to learn about Aries’ challenging traits that can make them hard to handle. We’ll also share which signs can find Aries especially difficult, and which signs get along with them best. Keep reading to find out more!

Why are Aries difficult to handle?

Astrologer Aliza Kelly says that Aries gets worked up easily and often starts drama, so they can be immature and difficult to deal with. Aries can also come across as competitive and selfish, which some may find exhausting. They can also be blunt and impatient, which can be challenging to handle.

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Section 1 of 4:

Reasons Why Aries Are Difficult

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   Aries can be quick to anger. According to Kelly, Aries can get really emotional, worked up, and angry about things. She says, “They're constantly starting fires and extinguishing them,” and there can definitely be “an immaturity around that.” As a passionate fire sign, the ram is known for being hot-headed and reactive. Little things can easily set them off, especially if their patience is tested or their abilities are questioned, which can sometimes make them difficult to be around.

   • However, Kelly notes that once they release a little steam, Aries gets over things quickly and doesn’t really hold a grudge.
   • Psychic astrologer Stina Garbis says, “Aries anger is not something to toy with.” If an Aries man or woman in your life is getting heated or testy, leave them alone and give them time to cool down. Then, calmly talk to them about what’s making them upset.

   Meet the wikiHow Experts

   Aliza Kelly is an astrologer and spiritual coach. Her expertise has been featured in The New York Times, The Drew Barrymore Show, CNN, and more.

   Stina Garbis is a psychic astrologer with over 30 years of experience doing astrological and tarot card readings.

   Mechila Blake is an astrologer with over 7 years of experience. Known as Astrology_Lyfe online, she boasts 53k+ followers on Instagram.

   Angel Eyedealism is a professional astrologer with nearly 30 years of astrology experience. She specializes in relocation astrology and astrocartography.

   Tara Divina is a Vedic astrologer with nearly 10 years of experience helping people answer life’s biggest questions.
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   Aries can be selfish. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and as such, they tend to only look out for number one. They often put themselves first over others, prioritizing their own wants, comforts, opinions, and beliefs. With their headstrong attitude and unwavering confidence, they can forget that other people have equally as important needs.

   • While Aries can be self-centered, they may also respond well if you’re upfront with them about how you’re feeling. If an Aries partner or friend is being a little selfish, tell them directly that you need them to take your wants and needs into account.
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   Aries can come off as aggressive. Garbis says that Aries is ruled by Mars, the Roman god of war and planet of action and energy, so this sign definitely has an aggressive streak. With their fierce horns, the bold and daring ram isn’t afraid to call out others or get confrontational. Combined with Aries’ hot-headed tendencies, calm conversations can turn into intense discussions or even straight-up arguments, and it can be hard to get a word in edgewise.

   • If your Aries is getting a little aggressive, leave them alone to work off their excess energy. Garbis notes that Aries often likes to get out their pent-up aggression by playing video games, practicing MMA, and watching or participating in sports. So, consider suggesting to your Aries that they do one of those activities!
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   Aries can be pretty stubborn. Like their animal symbol, the ram, Aries is a pioneer and leader who boldly forges their own path. That fierce independence, determination, and self-assuredness can also mean that they only like doing things their way. They tend to believe that they know best and don’t listen to others’ opinions and perspectives. This can make working with them difficult, especially if you want to reach some sort of compromise.

   • To help the Aries in your life see your point of view, ask them to put themselves in your shoes. Communicate your needs clearly and listen to their response. Then, work together to come to a decision or path forward that works for you both.
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   Aries often acts impulsively. Aries is energetic and passionate, so they tend to go, go, go without thinking things through first. Their emotions tend to guide them, and they change course quickly when new ideas hit them. Plus, their bravery and confidence mean that they often make reckless decisions and end up in hot water. So, you never quite know what to expect with the ram, which can make them a challenge to deal with sometimes.

   • Your Aries’ impulsiveness can definitely be exciting and spontaneous, though! Astrologer Mechila Blake notes that “dating an Aries…means you’ll never be bored. They are always planning something.” For instance, she says, “They might stay up all night researching a cool new place and then excitedly suggest going there the next day.”
   • It’s okay if you need your Aries to slow down a little, though. Remind them to be patient before making any decisions, and to think through their actions before they jump.
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   Aries can be pretty direct and blunt. Kelly explains that Aries is “extremely earnest and straightforward” and “very clear with how they feel.” While their honesty is a good thing, sometimes their direct approach can come off as blunt, tactless, and careless. So, their words can lead to people’s feelings getting hurt.

   • Blake agrees that Aries is very open with their feelings. As she puts it, “If they like you, you’ll know. If they don’t, you’ll know that, too.”
   • If your Aries friend or partner is hurting you with their bluntness, be direct with them back. Simply ask them to consider your feelings before speaking.
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   Aries can be impatient. With all their fire and passion swirling inside them, Aries tends to be a restless sign. Professional astrologer Angel Eyedealism agrees and says they “want immediate gratification.” They don’t like waiting, and if someone isn’t matching their speed, they might just leave them in the dust. Plus, if things aren’t going their way and they’re not seeing the progress they want, their notorious temper might just make an appearance.

   • Vedic astrologer Tara Divina explains that “Aries usually want people [who] can keep up with them mentally.” So, she advises that you pay attention when an Aries is talking so you don’t have to ask clarifying questions or even worse, make them repeat themselves. Ultimately, she says it’s important that they “feel like you're moving forward together.”
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   Aries sometimes acts recklessly. As the ram and first sign in the zodiac, Aries tends to charge ahead without looking (or caring) what’s in the way. That means they’re always down for a dare and ready to take on a risky challenge. Sometimes their loved ones can only watch, and other times they’re dragged into the chaos. This can be especially difficult because Aries has a tendency not to learn from their mistakes, so they often repeat them.

   • If your Aries’ reckless nature is getting the best of them, remind them that they don’t have to rise to every challenge or take on every gamble that comes their way. Tell them it’s okay to slow down and consider their actions, especially if they affect others, before they do something.
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   Aries can be very competitive. Aries is an assertive go-getter who can smell a challenge a mile away. They also like to win and will do everything in their power to come out on top. It’s hard for anything to be “just a game” to them, and they can turn even the silliest debate with friends into a cutthroat competition. They’re constantly sizing people up and comparing themselves, which can be exhausting to deal with.

   • If your Aries’ competitiveness is overwhelming them (or you), they might just need a self-esteem boost. Be sure to compliment your Aries and remind them that they’re strong, skilled, and completely amazing.
   • You don’t need to get into a competition with your Aries all the time, either. Instead, Garbis suggests that you be a spectator and complement them rather than challenge them. She says, “Be their favorite fan or collaborator and cheer them on, and they will love and adore you.”
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    Aries can come across as domineering. Aries takes up space and isn’t shy about it. They’re bold leaders who take charge and easily delegate tasks among friends, family, and coworkers. Their commanding presence sometimes dips into intimidating and domineering, though. They can be bossy and overbearing, assuming control without considering the group and what they want.

    • If your Aries partner or friend is acting pushy or overbearing, let them know that you need some space and can make your own decisions. They’ll appreciate your straightforwardness and reminder to chill out a little!
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    Aries can be overly self-sufficient. Aries is a very independent sign who usually prefers doing everything on their own. They don’t like to ask people for help or advice, and may even refuse it when someone offers it to them. That can make it difficult for others to connect with them and give them support when they truly need it.

    • Divina notes that “Aries need space,” especially to “think and be in their head.”
    • Lots of Aries may view asking for help as a sign of weakness. Be sure to tell your Aries that there’s nothing wrong with needing some support or guidance from their loved ones.
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    Aries sometimes has a hard time finishing projects. “Aries…has a lot of energy, and since they’re a cardinal sign, they like to initiate,” says Blake. While they’re visionary leaders who are great at coming up with ideas and getting projects started, they’re not usually the best at sticking the landing. When Aries gets bored or restless, they simply jump to the next thing without bothering to finish what they started.

    • Divina adds that “Aries might not be as interested in long-term planning,” either. She suggests that you recognize this about them, and take on long-term planning yourself instead of expecting them to do it.
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    Aries can be vain and dramatic. Aries has no shortage of self-confidence. As Garbis explains, “Aries are into themselves” and “love attention.” They can come across as self-absorbed and might even complain if the spotlight and flattery aren’t only directed toward them. Garbis agrees, saying they “hate being alone with no one telling them how great they are.” This can be tiresome to deal with, especially when people have their own stories and accomplishments they want to share.

    • Remind your Aries that giving other people attention and compliments doesn’t dull their shine—everybody benefits when you lift each other up!
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Section 2 of 4:

Which signs get along with Aries?

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1. 
   Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini, and Aquarius are most compatible with Aries. Whether romantic or platonic, astrologers Tali & Ophira Edut explain that signs of the same element “tend to have a natural understanding.” They agree that the other fire signs, Leo and Sagittarius, get along with Aries because they “both have adventurous, outspoken energy, and while others might find them overwhelming, they understand and complement each other’s intensity.” Air signs Gemini and Aquarius also complement Aries: these signs are curious and down to try new things, which matches Aries’ energetic personality.

Section 3 of 4:

Which signs don’t get along with Aries?

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1. 
   Cancer, Pisces, and Capricorn tend to be the least compatible with Aries. Some zodiac signs might find Aries more difficult to deal with because their personalities are so different. The water signs, which include Cancer and Pisces, are thoughtful and emotional, which astrologer Jessica Lanyadoo says can clash with Aries’ fiery and energetic nature. Capricorn, a practical earth sign, tends to be one of Aries’ least compatible matches, too. Cap loves structure, order, and routine, which is at odds with Aries’ passion, impatience, and impulsivity.

   • However, Lanyadoo notes that “any Zodiac sign can be a match because we're not just our sun sign.” As long as the two signs communicate and respect each other, they can make the relationship work.
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Section 4 of 4:

About the Aries Zodiac Sign

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1. 
   Aries is energetic, bold, and pioneering. Aries is the first sign in the zodiac and a true leader. They know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it; they’re always searching for new challenges to overcome and goals to check off. With their passionate and fiery spirits, they definitely know how to live life to the fullest. They’re adventurous and brave, and down to try anything at least once!

   • Dates: March 21 to April 19
   • Element: Fire
   • Modality: Cardinal
   • Ruler: Mars
   • Symbol: Ram
   • Strengths: Assertive, passionate, brave, confident, inspiring
   • Weaknesses: Aggressive, irritable, impatient, impulsive, stubborn
   • Birthstone: Diamond
   • Color: Red
   • Want to learn more about Aries? Check out our articles about what an Aries is like in love and how to date them, as well as Aries’ best colors and lucky numbers.

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