Zodiac Signs That Know The Importance Of Tough Love

Some people are naturally inclined to hold their loved ones accountable for their missteps, while others might simply turn a blind eye or let it slide. If you fall into the former category, chances are high you were born under one of these zodiac signs: Sagittarius, Aquarius, Aries, or Virgo. These signs are known to instill tough love and aren't likely to enable anyone they care about in their less than healthy habits.

It may take some getting used to if you're on the sensitive side and would rather be, well, coddled a bit, but know that these signs have your best interest at heart and only want you to become the best version of yourself. Have no doubt that internally, they are holding themselves to the same standards and are no strangers to the importance of tough love. Let's take a closer look at each of these signs and exactly how they implement this stern type of care.

Not known to bite their tongue, the archers of the zodiac have a penchant for being direct. They will call out their friends on their nonsense — but are also likely to call themselves out, too. It's nearly impossible for them to hold back when they catch someone in the act, but when they call you out they will most often do so with a loving, older brother type of energy. Sagittarians aren't ones to ride a high horse or find any sense of supremacy in holding you accountable, for they know they could easily be the ones caught in a mistake next.

"Sagittarians possess a natural instinct for authenticity and a deep-rooted belief in the power of honesty," founder of the astrology app Cosmic Fusion Michelle Bell told Bustle. "When their keen senses detect a discrepancy or a misstep, their spirits ignite with a passionate fire, urging them to hold you accountable for your actions."

Aquarius placements are known for their humanitarianism and have excellent skills when it comes to staying objective. They are interested in the truth and hold a deep understanding of what it is to be human, so while they will certainly hold you accountable when necessary, they will do so with respect and won't resort to name calling or any other foul play — which is definitely an upside when it comes to dating an Aquarius. 

It's easy for them to detect false victimhood and they won't jump to conclusions without examining each side of the story. When they err themselves, they are also able to remain somewhat objective and take personal accountability when they look at the facts and see how they did, indeed, make a mistake. Having an Aquarius in your corner when it comes to friendship is a blessing, for you will fully understand there isn't any contempt or ugliness underneath their tough love. They want what's best and fair for all involved.

Aries is likely the sign that comes to mind when you think of tough love and the zodiac — with good reason. This leader of the zodiac is known for standing up against injustices and sticking up for those weaker than they are. When it comes to their loved ones, they are also fiercely loyal; if you have an Aries in your life, you know how they show love in relationships. So, it may not be easy for them to interfere when their partner or friend has done something wrong, but if that's what's needed in order to help them, they will step up for the job with honor.

Honesty comes naturally to Aries, as do strong morals, so don't expect them to veil their true feelings or sugarcoat the reality of what is happening. If anything, they'll be quite blunt in telling you where you stand. You'll know exactly what moves an Aries is making and they are also the ones most likely to be effective in assisting you in learning your important life lessons.

As one of the most practical signs of the zodiac, it isn't hard to see why Virgo is all about the tough love. Virgos are hard workers and notice the smallest details that others won't pick up on, so don't count on this sign not noticing when you do something wrong. They won't let something slide if it has an adverse effect on productivity levels, successes, or professionalism. Like other earth signs, they hold themselves to the highest of standards, and they expect the same from those around them. That, combined with their tendency for honesty, makes them particularly fond of tough love. 

Virgo will be stern to show others that there is a lesson to be had in the misstep, but they don't seek out conflict the way that other more aggressive signs might. This sign will say what they need to and then want to move on; you won't need to worry about them holding a grudge unless you don't learn your lesson.