If you have your natal chart and will simply count the heavenly bodies (planets/Sun/Moon) in the top half (objective area) and then in the bottom half (subjective area) of the circle (wheel) you will have your answer.

If the majority (6 to 10) is in the top half (above/objective), likely you are more an extrovert; if the majority (6 to 10) is in the bottom half (below/subjective), likely you are more an introvert. But there is more to consider: How much extroverted and how much introverted -- and what does it all mean? Further, what is positive and negative about either, and how do you best understand and work with this information?

According to a dictionary: EXTROVERT -- a person more interested in the world about him than in his own mental life [outer-directed, public, open, gregarious, "hand-shaker," communicator, "worldly," an "open book"] OBJECTIVE -- of, or relating to an object or end; treating or dealing with facts without distortion by personal feelings or prejudices.

INTROVERT -- a person more interested in his own mental life than in the world about him [inner-directed, private, "self-centered," secretive, guarded, protective, a "closed book"] SUBJECTIVE -- of, relating to, or arising within one's self or mind in contrast to what is outside

The majority of people are a mixture of both extroversion and introversion, having some planets both above and below. (When counting your horoscope's planets, allow 10 points for each heavenly body above and 10 points for each below. Note: Though actually "above," planets in the 12th house should be considered as being "below" -- unless very favorably aspected, offering a positive "outlet" for their energies.)

Examples: You may be 10 percent introvert (1 below) and 90 percent extrovert (9 above); or, 90 percent introvert (9 below) and 10 percent extrovert (1 above); some will be 100 percent extrovert (10 above) or 100 percent introvert (10 below).

You might ask what does it matter, or which is best? It is all relative depending on several factors -- your job, relationships, your goals and "mission," but very important in how you function best in every other aspect of your life as well. (Knowing this can also be beneficial when dealing with others -- your mate, offspring, boss, friends and relatives.) The explanations/illustrations following should be both revealing and helpful.

Allow an account of my personal experiences with thousands of horoscope clients to serve as one example of how planets above/below can manifest:

"As a long-time professional consultant astrologer (37+ years) I have learned that clients with a majority of planets above (objective) are much easier to read for than those with a majority below (subjective). Why? Because these individuals are open (more trusting), receptive and normally more cooperative and forthcoming. They seldom try to hide or cover up anything. They openly agree when the reading "hits the nail on the head" -- whether flattering or unflattering, and give constructive feedback if something said might not apply in the way it was stated.

"However, when I read for clients with a decidedly heavy percentage of planets below (subjective), typically the exact reverse is true. Many seem to "fear" (no doubt from an unfounded lack of trust) something will be uncovered that's not flattering. They often are reluctant to say anything -- whether to agree or disagree. They may remain silent even when asked directly for confirmation or denial, or any other questions or feedback of any kind. Sometimes I feel that a reading is not up to standard when I finish -- and only later learn it must have been worthwhile when many of these "silent" individuals refer new clients to me and/or order additional personal astrological services."

Ideally, having planets both above and below would seem to be desirable for most people to get along best with their lives. There definitely can be potential problems with having 100 percent either above (objective) or below (subjective).

ALL 10 ABOVE: POTENTIAL PROBLEMS & POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Having all 10 heavenly bodies above:

• Is something like living in a glass house without drapes. It's possible just about everybody knows all your flaws, weaknesses, limitations and shortcomings; if they don't, you'll probably tell them. This makes you potentially vulnerable to those who wish to take advantage. You must learn how to keep some things to yourself. For example, if someone asks only for your name you are not obligated also to give your address, telephone number, bank account numbers, and a whole lot of details about your personal or business life.
• Can be like pushing a loaded top-heavy wheelbarrow; everything is fine until your grip on one handle slips and the entire content is strewn in disarray on the ground. In effect, your whole life may be turned upside down suddenly if you do not maintain a consistent balance by never allowing any one or two things to gain such importance that if suddenly they fail or change everything falls apart. (Example: Allowing marital difficulties to completely upset your career/business, health, etc.). You need to learn to plan ahead and to order priorities very practically and carefully.
• Is somewhat like being a beautiful tree with abundant foilage and flowers above ground but a very shallow and relatively weak root system. You must plan ahead for the storms and droughts which sooner or later are inevitable. Such a "tree" should be inside a "security fence" and have access to "irrigation sources." This means you need to save and invest wisely, purchase adequate insurance and otherwise prepare to weather the storms of life.
• Is often wondering why some relationships seem to fail unexpectedly or prematurely. If your date learns everything about you (because you tell/do all) on the first or second date they may no longer be intrigued by the possibility of discovering something new about you and consequently may lose interest and look for "newness" and "unknown mysteries" elsewhere.

ALL 10 BELOW: POTENTIAL PROBLEMS & POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

Having all 10 heavenly bodies below:

• Can be like living almost totally in your own little world, or "underground." You may have difficulty relating to others and what's really going on in the everyday world. Seeking help with problems might be difficult, frustrating -- even "painful." You may need to work on trying to develop more friendships; start with those individuals who seem least "threatening."
• Can be suggestive that you suffer from a belief that no one understands you. (And it's possible they may not because you seldom trust anyone enough to allow them "access" to your real self.) Try trusting one person and let that trust spread to others, realizing you probably have much more to gain than to lose.
• Is likely to limit markedly your chances for real success relative to career and business, as well as getting fair credit and recognition for your better accomplishments. (In the words of one famous stand-up comic: "I don't get no respect.")
• Could become the equivalent of "stewing in your own 'juices'."

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