Why Are Capricorns So Hard to Date? 11 Tough Truths About Dating Capricorns

Co-authored by Stina Garbis and Caroline Heiderscheit

Last Updated: April 26, 2024 Fact Checked

You've heard the rumors about Capricorns being hard to date, but why are they so difficult and is there anything you can do about it? Even with all of their brains and ambition, Capricorns are far from perfect in relationships. Understanding what's going on under the surface can help empower you, and we'll be sharing everything you need to know below. For a comprehensive guide on why it's so hard to date a Capricorn, read on!

1

They’re insecure.

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Capricorns are self-critical, which may affect your relationship. Capricorns set high expectations for themselves, often feeling like they work at warp speed only to come up short, over and over again. This can cause a lot of tension and frustration for their partners.
- If your Capricorn engages in negative self-talk, try offering a more positive perspective: “I hear you saying that you're not far enough in your career. But you’re actually much farther along than most people your age; plus, you love hard work. You're doing great."
- You can’t be their sole source for confidence or validation, but you can offer perspective and try to help them find ways to make peace with themselves.

2

They tend to be hypercritical.

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To Capricorns, everything can be improved through critique. They see the world around them as a project in the works, even the people they care about most. Because of this, you may find that your Capricorn partner always has something to say about how you can get better at things. ^{[1]
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- Confront your Capricorn partner to help limit their critiques. It's in their nature to be critical, but they also handle criticism well.
- If you can’t stand the “helpful” comments thrown in while you wash the dishes or hang a photo, let them know.
- They were likely trying to help you, so understanding that their critiques actually hurt will be important to communicate to them.

3

They have extremely high standards.

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They can make you feel like you'll never be good enough. You may be looking for someone to tell you that it’s okay that you didn’t get that promotion at work, but your Capricorn partner is more likely to explain what you could've done differently to earn it. It’s important to note that they aren't trying to be mean-spirited, but it can still sting when it happens.
- Capricorns only surround themselves with people they believe are capable of greatness. Their high standards can feel like a lot of pressure, but they can also be flattering and help you grow.

4

They’re notorious workaholics.

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Capricorns put their careers first, which can annoy their partners. You may be ready for a night out together, but then work calls. Or, you may want them to let their hair down, maybe leave work early to grab a treat with you. Unfortunately, with a Capricorn, that’s probably not going to happen. ^{[2]
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- This sign sees their identity and value directly tied to their successes in life.
- Most Capricorns see their triumphs at work as what makes them valuable to the people they love. So all of their hard work, that's for you!
- Reader Poll: We asked 947 wikiHow readers how they would handle a Capricorn who doesn’t prioritize their relationship, and 54% said they would communicate their feelings and expectations clearly and assertively. [Take Poll]

5

They’re not always understanding.

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Capricorns may not sympathize with your complaints and struggles. People of this sign spend their whole lives trying to avoid being weak, lazy, or ungrateful. Because of this, they have a hard time digesting their partners’ gripes. If you go to your Capricorn partner with an issue that you know is petty, but you still want an empathetic ear, you may not always find it. ^{[3]
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Expert Source

Stina Garbis
Psychic Astrologer

Expert Interview. 10 December 2021.}
- The closer you and your partner get, the less this will be an issue.
- When your partner starts to know you intimately, more understanding will likely come naturally.

6

They see the world in black and white.

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Their rigid worldview can make disagreements a lot harder. Instead of compromising and recognizing how you both might’ve contributed to an issue, a Capricorn might only be able to accept that one person is at fault.
- To overcome this, try explaining yourself in simple, direct, and logical terms.
- “I know I forgot your work event, but you’ve asked me to go to three of those this month alone. That’s a lot to ask of me, because I have my own schedule, too.”

7

They’re pessimists.

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Capricorns see optimism as a luxury that they can't afford. People of this sign expect the worst in everything. Though it’s comforting to know they’ll be the one with a plan if things go wrong, sometimes you just want your partner to tell you everything will work out in the end. But that’s not likely to happen in a relationship with a Capricorn. ^{[4]
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Research source}
- If you try to convince someone of this sign to see the bright side, you will most likely be unsuccessful.
- You’re better off channeling that energy into your own positivity. Try meditation, journaling, and reaching out to friends to achieve this.

8

They need to be in control.

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Capricorns are happiest when things go according to plan—their plan. This sign believes that no one organizes better than they do. They'll probably assume you agree, and because of that, you'll always be happy to go along with whatever they think is best. Depending on the Capricorn, this may range from being just a bit annoying to being a genuine issue. ^{[5]
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Research source}
- No matter someone’s sign, controlling behavior is a huge red flag.
- If your Capricorn just likes being in charge (but is self-aware and willing to let you take the reins, too), then that’s fine. But if they try to control the way you speak, dress, or act, that’s unacceptable.

9

They have rigid routines.

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Spontaneity is not their strong suit, so things can start feeling stale. Some people imagine meandering plans, flexibility, and romantic whims when they're in a relationship. With a Capricorn, romance will be a given; however, it will never be improvised. Your romantic outings will be organized down to the sweater they suggest you wear depending on the temperature.
- A Capricorn can loosen up a bit with help. Try taking little, manageable steps to bring some flexibility to your routines together.
- Have a place you always go for breakfast? Suggest trying somewhere new that neither of you have visited before.

10

They're penny-pinchers.

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A Capricorn values responsible spending, arguably too much. Capricorns are famously good with money, sometimes to the point of refusing to spend it at all. Yes, people of this sign love a good luxury item, but any purchase they make will be strategic and labored over for weeks before finally pulling the trigger. Their partners may find them hard to read in this respect—because Caps will only support splurging when it's on their terms.
- If you want to splurge on something, let your Capricorn know ahead of time and explain your reasoning. This way, they'll understand that the money spent has value to you.
- You might say, “I really want to pick up a treat or two while I’m out today. I had a long week, and buying something fun will help me relax. Just warning you!”

11

They're distrustful.

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A Capricorn's skepticism can make their partner feel like they're on trial. This is a sign always on the lookout for that leg up at work, in relationships, in everything. Because of this, Capricorns are used to keeping a sharp eye out for lies and deceit. They may read into your harmless behaviors, and if you ever do slip up, there'll be no chance for forgiveness. This behavior keeps Caps' partners at arm's length and can make them hard to love.
- Stay loyal, honest, and forthright in your relationship. Assume that, with a Capricorn, they'll find everything out eventually anyway. It's better to be upfront.
- Watch out for manipulative, toxic behavior. If your partner is constantly questioning your loyalty with little cause, that's not okay. You deserve someone who trusts you.

Join the Discussion...

Advice needed on dating a Capricorn man

31

WikiFawnDiver478

Just learned the guy that I've been seeing is a Capricorn and this is the first time I've ever dated one. I have no idea what to really expect fr... Read More

2

Tara Divina
Vedic Astrologer

There are so many other factors that I would consider aside from the fact that the person was a Capricorn, but they do have some common traits. T... Read More

2

WikiDolphinDiver871

I think what my Capricorn man found attractive about me was my ambition and intelligence. I'm the kind of person who knows what she wants and wor... Read More

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Learn How to Attract a Capricorn Man with this Expert Series

Capricorn men can seem closed off at first, but you just need to approach this hard-working earth sign the right way. This expert series will help you attract the Capricorn man of your dreams.

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How to Attract a Capricorn Guy (an Expert Astrologer's Tips)

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How do you tell if a Capricorn man likes you?

Stina Garbis
Psychic Astrologer
Reverend Stina Garbis is a Psychic Astrologer and the Owner of Psychic Stina. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in providing personal and professional advice through astrology and tarot card readings. Reverend Stina has experience working with high-profile celebrities, sports figures, politicians, and CEOs. She has been featured in many publications, including Bustle, Vice, The New York Post, and Readers’ Digest and she also has a 200k+ following on TikTok. Stina holds an Ordained Minister License from The International Metaphysical Ministry University Seminary.

Stina Garbis

Psychic Astrologer

Expert Answer

They are practical about the people they love, always concerned and prepared for emergencies. If you were to ask for help from a Capricorn, that may generate attention from them — depending upon how quickly, you’ll know they are interested.

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Question

Do Capricorns struggle with relationships?

Stina Garbis
Psychic Astrologer
Reverend Stina Garbis is a Psychic Astrologer and the Owner of Psychic Stina. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in providing personal and professional advice through astrology and tarot card readings. Reverend Stina has experience working with high-profile celebrities, sports figures, politicians, and CEOs. She has been featured in many publications, including Bustle, Vice, The New York Post, and Readers’ Digest and she also has a 200k+ following on TikTok. Stina holds an Ordained Minister License from The International Metaphysical Ministry University Seminary.

Stina Garbis

Psychic Astrologer

Expert Answer

A little bit. If you want to attract a Capricorn man, allow him to take the lead. Be soft natured and compliment his serious side, and in turn, he will want to take care of you. Leave the drama at home with your friends!

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Why Are Capricorns So Hard to Date? 11 Tough Truths About Dating Capricorns

Steps

They’re insecure.

They tend to be hypercritical.

They have extremely high standards.

They’re notorious workaholics.

They’re not always understanding.

They see the world in black and white.

They’re pessimists.

They need to be in control.

They have rigid routines.

They're penny-pinchers.

They're distrustful.

Join the Discussion...

Learn How to Attract a Capricorn Man with this Expert Series

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