Red is hot. It's a strong color that conjures up a range of seemingly conflicting emotions from passionate love to violence and warfare. Red is Cupid and the Devil.

Red is power, hence the red power tie for business people and the red carpet for celebrities and VIPs. The red ruby is the traditional fortieth wedding anniversary gift.

These are the power wielders. Power, the ability to move from point A to point B, and get things done is what motivates and drives these people.

They bring great gifts of vision and leadership and generally are responsible, decisive, proactive and assertive.

In some cultures, red denotes purity, joy, and celebration. Red is the color of happiness and prosperity in China and may be used to attract good luck.

Use the color red to grab attention and to get people to take action. Use red when you don't want to sink into the background. Use red to suggest speed combined with confidence and perhaps even a dash of danger.

A little bit of red goes a long way. Small doses can often be more effective than large amounts of this strong color. Multiple shades of red and even pink or orange can combine for a cheerful palette.

Using Red with Other Colors: Although not normally considered an ideal coupling, in combination with green, red is a Christmas color, a joyful season.

Cool blues provide contrast and tone down the heat of red. Light pinks and yellows are harmonizing colors that can work well with red if not too close in value such as dark red with a pale or golden yellow.

Be careful using purple. It can be an elegant combination but too much could be overpowering.

Add a dash of red to a soft but sophisticated pink and gray combo. For some countries, including the US, red, white, and blue is a very patriotic trio even if the shades of red and blue differ from those used in the flag.

Reds are hungry for power. Simple stated Reds want their own way. If they have been raised in environments where they were able to manipulate their parents and siblings, they become difficult to manage as they get older.

When they have gotten their way for too long, Reds find it almost impossible to relinquish their power and freedom when they meet authorities in society (teachers, bosses, police, clergy, military officers) who refuse to grant them the total control they demand.

Reds want to be productive. Reds like to work, in school, in their careers and in their relationships. Just do not expect them to attach the same importance to things other people care about, like other people's schooling, careers and marriages.

But give them a reason to produce, and watch them take off. Reds like to get the job done. They are often workaholics. They will, however, resist being forced to do anything that does not interest them.

Reds want to look good to others. Reds need to appear knowledgable. They crave approval from others for their intelligence and insight. They want to be respected even more than they want to be loved.

They want to be admired for their logical, practical minds. When you deal with a Red, be precise and factual. Reds are unmoved by tears or other displays of "weakness".

Reds should not be taken too seriously. Reds are often just stating the facts as they see them, despite their antagonistic demeanor.

They seldom say "in my opinion" before stating their opinions. I have seen too many Blues, Whites and Yellows become greatly concerned over issues raised by Reds, only to discover later that the Reds were simply interested in debating. Reds enjoy a good power play.

But once you get emotionally involved arguing issues, you may be disappointed and frustrated to find that a Red is no longer interested.

Reds seek leadership opportunities. Despite the rigidity of the military, many young Red men and women select it as a career in order to experience leadership. Reds are often called "control freaks".

They like to be in the driver's seat. Red children are often frustrated in school because teachers (often Blue personalities) won't let them take charge.

If a Red can get the upper hand, he or she will. Reds are willing to pay any price in order for an opportunity to lead.

Red is the warmest of all colors. Red is the color most chosen by extroverts and one of the top picks of males. On the negative side red can mean temper or anger.

In China, red is the color of prosperity and joy. Brides wear red and front doors are often painted red. Red is Tuesday's color. Red roses symbolize passionate love.

Ruby rings should be worn on the left hand. Red is the color of Mars. This planet is known as the God of War.

Red is associated with fiery heat and warmth. It can also mean danger (burning).

Red is the color of blood, and as such has strong symbolism as life and vitality. It brings focus to the essence of life and living with emphasis on survival. Red is also the color of passion and lust.