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WHILE J.LO was in the headlines this year (usually living her best life), there was one more controversial rumor that raised eyebrows – the superstar was said to have ‘let go’ an entire troupe of potential backup dancers based solely on on their Virgo zodiac status.
It’s important to note that this has not been verified, but the rumors are rife and were supported by Glee alumni, Heather Morris for the Just Sayin’ podcast.
Morris claimed that, after auditioning for one of J.Lo’s tours for a day, the star said to a group of dancers, “Thank you so much, you’ve worked so hard. By show of hands, if there are Virgos in the room, you can will you raise your hand?”
And then, according to Morris, Lopez whispered to her assistant and the dancers were sent home.
So, are J.Lo’s actions justified? How much can a person’s zodiac sign actually tell us about their personality?
Here’s what the experts say.
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“When you ask someone, ‘what’s your sign?’ most people refer to sun signs. In astrology, the sun represents a person’s fundamental character traits, energy, willpower, and how they shine their light in the world,” explains astrologer Natasha Weber, also known as AstroTash, out.
The “observational science” of astrology has been studied for thousands of years “going back to Babylonian times,” she says.
“The zodiac personalities derived from Greek and Roman mythology each have their own set of unique characteristics and patterns of behavior. So the personality traits we now associate with zodiac signs were developed through observation by our ancestors, kings, queens, and ancient philosophers.”
Based on this and the long-term popularity of astrology, most of us know our own zodiac sign and have a basic understanding of its characteristics that are considered “typical.”
For example, “Leos (J.Lo zodiac sign) are typically affectionate, generous, and attention-seeking.” And her zodiac nemesis, Virgos “are the perfectionists of the zodiac. They are punctual, organized, methodical and have an excellent eye for detail,” says Weber.
But can these descriptions be applied to anyone born under their respective zodiac sign?
The short answer? No.
NASA
Weber says astrology is a fantastic tool for self-discovery and awareness, but it’s not all.
“Free will always reigns supreme. This is what distinguishes astrology from divination or a psychic reading, because there is no predestined outcome set in stone.”
Elisabeth Shaw, clinical psychologist and CEO of Relationships Australia NSW says that what specifically influences our personality has been the subject of extensive debate in terms of nature versus nurture.
“Genes, family characteristics, culture and environment all play a role, and our life experiences can also be hugely influential. Dramatic events such as loss or trauma, or experiences such as chronic illness, will affect the personality. The people in our lives will be strong influencers. Parents, siblings, and friends can reinforce and celebrate certain characteristics, or encourage us to suppress them. The era we are born into will also play a role, as social norms and expectations will determine what is acceptable or not.”
Personality is MOLDED and INFLUENCED over time, but the core traits that make up that UNIQUE individual are usually quite STABLE and ROBUST
It’s also something that can change and evolve to some degree, she says.
“Personality is shaped and affected over time, but the core traits of that unique individual are generally quite stable and robust. Certain traits can become stronger or weaker over time depending on experience, circumstances and health .”
And this is where Weber says astrology can be helpful.
“Your job is to work within these astrological parameters and make the best possible choices…You have no control over other people’s behavior, but astrology provides insight into your traits and pitfalls so that you can act in accordance with your greatest potential,” she says. .
But relationship therapist Lauren Bradley isn’t so sure.
“The mythical power of constellations light-years away to change our internal world – is questionable, but the power of our own faith to shape who we are – is real.
Thoughts can change our behavior – If we think we are a certain zodiac sign, then it is possible for us to shape our behavior in a way that corresponds to that sign. The daily horoscope messages can seep into our definition of self, creating a preference for actions that fit favorably with that definition. If you think you’re a Leo, you’re more likely to act like a Leo,” she says.
It can also negatively affect your relationship with others and maybe even put love aside.
“If you believe that other people are defined by a zodiac sign, then you may be looking for a confirmation bias — actively seeking traits that confirm your beliefs. You can magnify a personality trait within a person and use that to define it within your preconceived idea of who they are.
Basing your happiness in love on zodiac sign compatibility can create unrealistic expectations and put off real relationship problems that can be fixed, if recognized properly,” says Bradley.
And when it comes to the most pressing question, should J.Lo have given her potential Virgo dancers a shot?
The consensus is yes!
NASA
“I assume J.Lo had a negative experience with a Virgo that drastically changed her mind about all Virgos on the planet! Does this seem like an unfair, sweeping judgment and over-generalization? Yes, that’s right,” Weber says.
“But it highlights the importance of understanding that people are more than just their sun sign.
Humans are the sum of their entire birth chart, including their moon sign, planetary placements, mathematical celestial points, astrological houses and more.”
However, Shaw believes these types of actions are a reflection of “confirmation bias”.
“That is, someone has already decided that Virgos are somehow a problem, and then for every Virgo that is met, there is an unconscious screening for unpleasantness to prove the rule.
It is no different than making assumptions about skin color, birth order, religion or any other singular element. It’s about one person judging and others failing, which is a very hard and difficult way to live with others in the world.
Should we let J.Lo know?