2020 was not an easy year, but you should acknowledge your resilience—you made it through. Now we stand at the threshold of a new year. 2021 won’t instantly fix everything, but it offers a fresh chance to reflect and set meaningful goals.
One engaging way to approach your goals is to explore your Rising sign, also known as the Ascendant in astrology.
The Rising sign is the zodiac sign that was ascending on the eastern horizon at the exact moment of your birth. It plays a key role in shaping how you present yourself to the world and influences your first impressions, public persona, and general style of expression.
So what does your Rising sign reveal about you?
Your Rising Sign & You
The Rising sign, or Ascendant, represents how others perceive you at first glance. You may have noticed that people sometimes see you differently than your Sun sign describes—that is often the Ascendant at work. While some describe it as a mask, it can be more helpful to think of it as an outfit: a way you express your identity outwardly and the public version of yourself.
This outward expression reflects one part of the whole natal chart and can shape how you start new endeavors, approach social situations, and form initial impressions.
How Do I Find My Rising Sign?
To find your Rising sign you need your natal chart and the exact time of your birth. If you don’t have a natal chart, use a reputable birth chart generator to create one; the birth chart and natal chart are the same thing. On your chart, the sign positioned at the 9 o’clock point (the eastern horizon) is your Rising sign.
What if I Don’t Have My Birth Time?
Not knowing your exact birth time makes determining the Ascendant more challenging, because the Rising sign changes relatively quickly. Many astrologers offer chart rectification services to estimate birth times based on life events, and there are ways to work with a chart even when an exact time is unavailable.
If you don’t have access to a birth time, a practical and fun approach is to ask close friends or family to describe the traits they associate with you. Compare those descriptions with Rising sign characteristics and trust your first instincts about which descriptions fit your public self.
2021 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Rising Sign
Aries
Finish that project, Aries Rising. When you start to lose interest, remind yourself why you began. Reconnecting with purpose can renew your drive.
Taurus
Taurus Rising, you’re naturally creative—consider starting a new craft or deepening a skill you already enjoy. It might be the year to invest in lessons or a new instrument.
Gemini
Try keeping a journaling habit, Gemini Rising. Putting thoughts on paper can help you sort through mental clutter and make clearer decisions.
Cancer
Cancer Rising, focus on refreshing a corner of your home. Organize a closet, change soft furnishings, or add small touches that make your space more comforting and joyful.
Leo
Leo Rising, this could be the year to support a cause or join a nonprofit. Your bold, charismatic nature can raise awareness and inspire others.
Virgo
Virgo Rising, prioritize a consistent self-care routine. You often care for others first—this year, make time for your own health and well-being.
Libra
Libra Rising, aim to nurture one or two deep relationships. Propose a weekly meetup or regular time together to build stronger connections.
Scorpio
Scorpio Rising, organize your finances. Even if you’re already disciplined, a fresh review of your budget and plans may reveal new opportunities or overlooked details.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius Rising, with travel limited, explore the world through food: learn new recipes from cultures you haven’t tried before. It’s a creative way to satisfy your curiosity.
Capricorn
Capricorn Rising, work remains important, but don’t skip your fitness routine. Protect time for exercise and health even during busy periods; it will support your long-term goals.
Aquarius
Aquarius Rising, trade a little online scrolling for more reading. Reconnect with books and ideas that expand your perspective.
Pisces
Pisces Rising, step outside your comfort zone this year. Try something that stretches you—a new online class, a creative experiment, or a small public performance—and see how it shifts your confidence.
Time for New Beginnings
Whether or not you make formal resolutions, the new year marks a fresh beginning and the first step in your next cycle. Your Rising sign offers useful insight into how you show up in the world—use that knowledge to guide intentions for 2021. You’ve got this.