Kitabı oku: «Your Chinese Horoscope 2014: What the year of the horse holds in store for you»

Contents

Cover

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Epigraph

Acknowledgements

Introduction

The Chinese Years

Welcome to the Year of the Horse

The Rat

The Ox

The Tiger

The Rabbit

The Dragon

The Snake

The Horse

The Goat

The Monkey

The Rooster

The Dog

The Pig

Appendix

Relationships between the Signs

Your Ascendant

How to Get the Best from your Chinese Sign and the Year

A Closing Thought

Copyright

About the Publisher

Acknowledgements

In writing Your Chinese Horoscope 2014 I am grateful for the assistance and invaluable support that those around me have given.

I would also like to acknowledge Theodora Lau’s The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes (Harper & Row, 1979; Arrow, 1981), which was particularly useful to me in my research.

In addition to Ms Lau’s work, I commend the following books to those who wish to find out more about Chinese horoscopes: Kristyna Arcarti, Chinese Horoscopes for Beginners (Headway, 1995); Catherine Aubier, Chinese Zodiac Signs (Arrow, 1984), series of 12 books; E. A. Crawford and Teresa Kennedy, Chinese Elemental Astrology (Piatkus Books, 1992); Paula Delsol, Chinese Horoscopes (Pan, 1973); Barry Fantoni, Barry Fantoni’s Chinese Horoscopes (Warner, 1994); Bridget Giles and the Diagram Group, Chinese Astrology (HarperCollinsPublishers, 1996); Kwok Man-Ho, Complete Chinese Horoscopes (Sunburst Books, 1995); Lori Reid, The Complete Book of Chinese Horoscopes (Element Books, 1997); Paul Rigby and Harvey Bean, Chinese Astrologics (Publications Division, South China Morning Post Ltd, 1981); Ruth Q. Sun, The Asian Animal Zodiac (Charles E. Tuttle Company, Inc., 1996); Derek Walters, Ming Shu (Pagoda Books, 1987) and The Chinese Astrology Workbook (The Aquarian Press, 1988); Suzanne White, The New Astrology (Pan, 1987), The New Chinese Astrology (Pan, 1994) and Chinese Astrology Plain and Simple (Eden Grove Editions, 1998).

Introduction

The origins of Chinese horoscopes have been lost in the mists of time. It is known, however, that oriental astrologers practised their art many thousands of years ago and even today Chinese astrology continues to fascinate and intrigue.

In Chinese astrology there are 12 signs named after 12 different animals. No one quite knows how the signs acquired their names, but there is one legend that offers an explanation. According to this legend, one Chinese New Year the Buddha invited all the animals in his kingdom to come before him. Unfortunately, for reasons best known to the animals, only 12 turned up. The first to arrive was the Rat, followed by the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and finally Pig. In gratitude, the Buddha decided to name a year after each of the animals and that those born during that year would inherit some of the personality of that animal. Therefore those born in the year of the Ox would be hardworking, resolute and stubborn, just like the Ox, while those born in the year of the Dog would be loyal and faithful, just like the Dog. While it is not possible that everyone born in a particular year can have all the characteristics of the sign, it is incredible what similarities do occur, and this is partly where the fascination of Chinese horoscopes lies.

In addition to the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac there are five elements and these have a strengthening or moderating influence upon the signs. Details about the effects of the elements are given in each of the chapters on the signs.

To find out which sign you were born under, refer to the tables on the following pages. As the Chinese year is based on the lunar year and does not start until late January or early February, it is particularly important for anyone born in those two months to check carefully the dates of the Chinese year in which they were born.

Also included, in the appendix, are two charts showing the compatibility between the signs for personal and business relationships and details about the signs ruling the different hours of the day. From this it is possible to locate your ascendant and, as in Western astrology, this has a significant influence on your personality.

In writing this book I have taken the unusual step of combining the intriguing nature of Chinese horoscopes with the Western desire to know what the future holds, and have based my interpretations upon various factors relating to each of the signs. Over the years in which Your Chinese Horoscope has been published I have been pleased that so many have found the sections on the forthcoming year of interest and hope that the horoscope has been constructive and useful. Remember, though, that at all times you are master of your own destiny.

I sincerely hope that Your Chinese Horoscope 2014 will prove interesting and helpful for the year ahead.

The Chinese Years

Ox 6 February 1913 to 25 January 1914

Tiger 26 January 1914 to 13 February 1915

Rabbit 14 February 1915 to 2 February 1916

Dragon 3 February 1916 to 22 January 1917

Snake 23 January 1917 to 10 February 1918

Horse 11 February 1918 to 31 January 1919

Goat 1 February 1919 to 19 February 1920

Monkey 20 February 1920 to 7 February 1921

Rooster 8 February 1921 to 27 January 1922

Dog 28 January 1922 to 15 February 1923

Pig 16 February 1923 to 4 February 1924

Rat 5 February 1924 to 23 January 1925

Ox 24 January 1925 to 12 February 1926

Tiger 13 February 1926 to 1 February 1927

Rabbit 2 February 1927 to 22 January 1928

Dragon 23 January 1928 to 9 February 1929

Snake 10 February 1929 to 29 January 1930

Horse 30 January 1930 to 16 February 1931

Goat 17 February 1931 to 5 February 1932

Monkey 6 February 1932 to 25 January 1933

Rooster 26 January 1933 to 13 February 1934

Dog 14 February 1934 to 3 February 1935

Pig 4 February 1935 to 23 January 1936

Rat 24 January 1936 to 10 February 1937

Ox 11 February 1937 to 30 January 1938

Tiger 31 January 1938 to 18 February 1939

Rabbit 19 February 1939 to 7 February 1940

Dragon 8 February 1940 to 26 January 1941

Snake 27 January 1941 to 14 February 1942

Horse 15 February 1942 to 4 February 1943

Goat 5 February 1943 to 24 January 1944

Monkey 25 January 1944 to 12 February 1945

Rooster 13 February 1945 to 1 February 1946

Dog 2 February 1946 to 21 January 1947

Pig 22 January 1947 to 9 February 1948

Rat 10 February 1948 to 28 January 1949

Ox 29 January 1949 to 16 February 1950

Tiger 17 February 1950 to 5 February 1951

Rabbit 6 February 1951 to 26 January 1952

Dragon 27 January 1952 to 13 February 1953

Snake 14 February 1953 to 2 February 1954

Horse 3 February 1954 to 23 January 1955

Goat 24 January 1955 to 11 February 1956

Monkey 12 February 1956 to 30 January 1957

Rooster 31 January 1957 to 17 February 1958

Dog 18 February 1958 to 7 February 1959

Pig 8 February 1959 to 27 January 1960

Rat 28 January 1960 to 14 February 1961

Ox 15 February 1961 to 4 February 1962

Tiger 5 February 1962 to 24 January 1963

Rabbit 25 January 1963 to 12 February 1964

Dragon 13 February 1964 to 1 February 1965

Snake 2 February 1965 to 20 January 1966

Horse 21 January 1966 to 8 February 1967

Goat 9 February 1967 to 29 January 1968

Monkey 30 January 1968 to 16 February 1969

Rooster 17 February 1969 to 5 February 1970

Dog 6 February 1970 to 26 January 1971

Pig 27 January 1971 to 14 February 1972

Rat 15 February 1972 to 2 February 1973

Ox 3 February 1973 to 22 January 1974

Tiger 23 January 1974 to 10 February 1975

Rabbit 11 February 1975 to 30 January 1976

Dragon 31 January 1976 to 17 February 1977

Snake 18 February 1977 to 6 February 1978

Horse 7 February 1978 to 27 January 1979

Goat 28 January 1979 to 15 February 1980

Monkey 16 February 1980 to 4 February 1981

Rooster 5 February 1981 to 24 January 1982

Dog 25 January 1982 to 12 February 1983

Pig 13 February 1983 to 1 February 1984

Rat 2 February 1984 to 19 February 1985

Ox 20 February 1985 to 8 February 1986

Tiger 9 February 1986 to 28 January 1987

Rabbit 29 January 1987 to 16 February 1988

Dragon 17 February 1988 to 5 February 1989

Snake 6 February 1989 to 26 January 1990

Horse 27 January 1990 to 14 February 1991

Goat 15 February 1991 to 3 February 1992

Monkey 4 February 1992 to 22 January 1993

Rooster 23 January 1993 to 9 February 1994

Dog 10 February 1994 to 30 January 1995

Pig 31 January 1995 to 18 February 1996

Rat 19 February 1996 to 6 February 1997

Ox 7 February 1997 to 27 January 1998

Tiger 28 January 1998 to 15 February 1999

Rabbit 16 February 1999 to 4 February 2000

Dragon 5 February 2000 to 23 January 2001

Snake 24 January 2001 to 11 February 2002

Horse 12 February 2002 to 31 January 2003

Goat 1 February 2003 to 21 January 2004

Monkey 22 January 2004 to 8 February 2005

Rooster 9 February 2005 to 28 January 2006

Dog 29 January 2006 to 17 February 2007

Pig 18 February 2007 to 6 February 2008

Rat 7 February 2008 to 25 January 2009

Ox 26 January 2009 to 13 February 2010

Tiger 14 February 2010 to 2 February 2011

Rabbit 3 February 2011 to 22 January 2012

Dragon 23 January 2012 to 9 February 2013

Snake 10 February 2013 to 30 January 2014

Horse 31 January 2014 to 18 February 2015

Note

The names of the signs in the Chinese zodiac occasionally differ, although the characteristics of the signs remain the same. In some books the Ox is referred to as the Buffalo or Bull, the Rabbit as the Hare or Cat, the Goat as the Sheep and the Pig as the Boar.

For the sake of convenience, the male gender is used throughout this book. Unless otherwise stated, the characteristics of the signs apply to both sexes.

Welcome to the Year of the Horse

Whether pulling a cart, working on a farm, being ridden for pleasure or sport or displaying the graceful skills of dressage, the horse is a good worker. And has style. Many of these qualities will be evident during the Year of the Horse.

The Horse enjoys activity and a prominent feature of the Horse year is that it favours action. Whether on the world stage or in the arts, media, technology, medicine or other spheres, there will be significant developments this year and the emphasis will be on innovation and pushing the boundaries.

Internationally, too, the focus will be on moving situations forward and some landmark agreements will be forged which will bring hope to troubled regions. Previous Horse years have seen the formal reunification of East and West Germany following the collapse of the Berlin Wall, the release of Nelson Mandela, which led to dramatic change in South Africa, and, in 1918, the ending of the First World War. In 2014 again, important conflict resolutions can lift the shadow of oppression from certain regions. Middle Eastern and African countries will, in particular, continue to experience great change during the year.

Although the accent will be on progress, there will, though, inevitably be flashpoints and sudden acts of aggression, as in the Horse year of 1990, when Iraqi troops invaded Kuwait, but generally the troubles will be of short duration and the reaction from international communities swift.

Another area which will continue to exercise the minds of those in authority will be the world economy. After the austerity and fiscal measures imposed by some governments, 2014 will bring improvement. The green shoots of recovery already seen in some economies will grow stronger during the year, with many governments taking greater measures to stimulate growth and reduce unemployment. With the Horse year favouring initiative, several dynamic approaches will be put forward. Quite a few sectors will see steady growth, but industries which are likely to fare especially well are transport, technology, fashion and those connected with the use and manufacture of renewable energy. Also, while economic considerations will be paramount, attention will again focus on environmental concerns, particularly on reducing pollution in heavily industrialized areas.

This Horse year will also see lively debate in quite a few countries as governmental and constitutional issues are discussed and new ideas put forward. In the UK in particular, great interest will be focused on the Scottish referendum and the constitutional implications. Other countries, too, will see significant issues debated which could affect national identity and ways of governance.

Horse years have energy and passion and focus the mind. They have their lighter sides too, including great successes on stage and screen and in the music industry. This year again some influential new figures could emerge on the music scene and new television series and film releases attract great followings. Star Trek and the American reality series The Osbournes both started in Horse years, and Spider-Man and The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers were especially successful in 2002. Interestingly, it was a Horse year, 1894, when Louis Lumière invented the cinematograph, and another Horse year when Sony made the first Walkman, a device which was to transform the listening habits of so many. The entertainment industry is set to have another pioneering year in 2014.

The fashion industry too will enjoy a revival, with new trends and styles quickly coming to prominence. A more elegant look could well be a feature.

The energy of horses will also be seen in sport. The 2014 Winter Olympics and then the World Cup in Brazil will be colourful and exciting spectacles and there will be historic moments as new sporting milestones are achieved. It was 60 years ago, in a previous Horse year, that Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile, a record that made sporting history.

As with all years, there will be bleaker moments too. Natural forces and the vagaries of world weather patterns will bring tragedy. There will also be concern about world resources, including the difficulties of meeting ever-growing demands and compensating for crop failures. But while there will inevitably be some problems, the emphasis will be on moving forward and the year will favour growth.

For the individual, too, this is a year for being willing to take that one step further and work towards goals. With willingness and purpose much can become possible this year. While some Chinese signs will fare better than others, the Horse year is essentially a time for action and I sincerely hope that your actions will bring you the results you desire and that you will fare well.

Good luck. Be purposeful and I hope this will be a good year for you.

The Rat

Wood Rat 5 February 1924 to 23 January 1925

Fire Rat 24 January 1936 to 10 February 1937

Earth Rat 10 February 1948 to 28 January 1949

Metal Rat 28 January 1960 to 14 February 1961

Water Rat 15 February 1972 to 2 February 1973

Wood Rat 2 February 1984 to 19 February 1985

Fire Rat 19 February 1996 to 6 February 1997

Earth Rat 7 February 2008 to 25 January 2009

The Personality of the Rat

To see,

and to see what others do not see.

That is true vision.

The Rat is born under the sign of charm. He is intelligent, popular and loves attending parties and large social gatherings. He is able to establish friendships with remarkable ease and people generally feel relaxed in his company. He is a very social creature and is genuinely interested in the welfare and activities of others. He has a good understanding of human nature and his advice and opinions are often sought.

The Rat is a hard and diligent worker. He is also very imaginative and is never short of ideas. However, he does sometimes lack the confidence to promote his ideas and this can often prevent him from securing the recognition he deserves.

The Rat is very observant and many Rats have made excellent writers and journalists. The Rat also excels at personnel and PR work and any job that brings him into contact with people and the media. His skills are particularly appreciated in times of crisis, for the Rat has an incredibly strong sense of self-preservation. When it comes to finding a way out of an awkward situation, he is certain to be the one who comes up with a solution.

The Rat loves to be where there is a lot of action, but should he ever find himself in a very bureaucratic or restrictive environment he can become a stickler for discipline and routine. He is also something of an opportunist and is constantly on the lookout for ways in which he can improve his wealth and lifestyle. He rarely lets an opportunity go by and can become involved in so many plans and schemes that he sometimes squanders his energies and achieves very little as a result. He is also rather gullible and can be taken in by those less scrupulous than himself.

Another characteristic of the Rat is his attitude towards money. He is very thrifty and to some he may appear a little mean. The reason for this is purely that he likes to keep his money within his family. He can be most generous to his partner, his children and close friends and relatives. He can also be generous to himself, for he often finds it impossible to deprive himself of any luxury or object he fancies. He is very acquisitive and can be a notorious hoarder. He also hates waste and is rarely prepared to throw anything away. He can be rather greedy and will rarely refuse an invitation to a free meal or a complimentary ticket to a lavish function.

The Rat is a good conversationalist, although he can occasionally be a little indiscreet. He can be highly critical of others – for an honest and unbiased opinion, the Rat is a superb critic – and will sometimes use confidential information to his own advantage. However, as he has such a bright and irresistible nature, most people are prepared to forgive him his slight indiscretions.

Throughout his long and eventful life the Rat will make many friends and will find that he is especially well suited to those born under his own sign and those of the Ox, Dragon and Monkey. He can also get on well with those born under the signs of the Tiger, Snake, Rooster, Dog and Pig, but the rather sensitive Rabbit and Goat will find him a little too critical and blunt for their liking. The Horse and Rat will also find it difficult to get on with each other – the Rat craves security and will find the Horse’s changeable moods and rather independent nature a little unsettling.

The Rat is very family orientated and will do anything to please his nearest and dearest. He is exceptionally loyal to his parents and can himself be a very caring and loving parent. He will take an interest in all his children’s activities and see that they want for nothing. He usually has a large family.

The female Rat has a kindly, outgoing nature and involves herself in a multitude of different activities. She has a wide circle of friends, enjoys entertaining and is an attentive hostess. She is also conscientious about the upkeep of her home and has good taste in home furnishings. She is most supportive to the other members of her family and, due to her resourceful, friendly and persevering nature, can do well in practically any career she chooses.

Although the Rat is essentially outgoing, he is also a very private individual. He tends to keep his feelings to himself and while he is not averse to learning what other people are doing, he resents anyone prying too closely into his own affairs. He also does not like solitude and if he is alone for any length of time he can easily get depressed.

The Rat is undoubtedly very talented, but he does sometimes fail to capitalize on his many abilities. He has a tendency to become involved in too many schemes and chase after too many opportunities at once. If he can slow down and concentrate on one thing at a time, he can become very successful. If not, success and wealth can elude him. But, with his tremendous ability to charm, he will rarely, if ever, be without friends.

The Five Different Types of Rat

In addition to the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac there are five elements and these have a strengthening or moderating influence on the signs. The effects of the five elements on the Rat are described below, together with the years in which they were exercising their influence. Therefore Rats born in 1960 are Metal Rats, Rats born in 1972 are Water Rats, and so on.

Metal Rat: 1960

This Rat has excellent taste and certainly knows how to appreciate the finer things in life. His home is comfortable and nicely decorated and he likes to entertain and mix in fashionable circles. He has considerable financial acumen and invests his money well. On the surface he appears cheerful and confident, but deep down he can be troubled by worries that are quite often of his own making. He is exceptionally loyal to his family and friends.

Water Rat: 1972

The Water Rat is intelligent and very astute. He is a deep thinker and can express his thoughts clearly and persuasively. He is always eager to learn and is talented in many different areas. He is usually very popular, but his fear of loneliness can sometimes lead him into mixing with the wrong sort of company. He is a particularly skilful writer, but can get sidetracked very easily and should try to concentrate on just one thing at a time.

Wood Rat: 1924, 1984

The Wood Rat has a friendly, outgoing personality and is popular with his colleagues and friends. He has a quick, agile brain and likes to turn his hand to anything he thinks may be useful. His one fear is insecurity, but given his intelligence and capabilities, this fear is usually unfounded. He has a good sense of humour, enjoys travel and, due to his highly imaginative nature, can be a gifted writer or artist.

Fire Rat: 1936, 1996

The Fire Rat is rarely still and seems to have a never-ending supply of energy and enthusiasm. He loves being involved in some form of action, be it travel, following up new ideas or campaigning for a cause in which he fervently believes. He is an original thinker and hates being bound by petty restrictions or the dictates of others. He can be forthright in his views but can sometimes get carried away in the excitement of the moment and commit himself to various undertakings without thinking through all the implications. Yet he has a resilient nature and with the right support can go far in life.

Earth Rat: 1948, 2008

This Rat is astute and very level-headed. He rarely takes unnecessary chances and while he is constantly trying to improve his financial status, he is prepared to proceed slowly and leave nothing to chance. He is probably not as adventurous as the other types of Rat and prefers to remain in familiar territory rather than rush headlong into something he knows little about. He is talented, conscientious and caring towards his loved ones, but at the same time can be self-conscious and worry a little too much about the image he is trying to project.

Prospects for the Rat in 2014

The Year of the Snake (10 February 2013–30 January 2014) will have been a variable one for the Rat. Problems may have hindered his progress and, as Snake years require a certain amount of patience, more action-loving Rats may have found parts of the year frustrating.

As the Snake year draws to a close, however, the Rat will find some of his efforts paying off and will enjoy a gradual improvement in his situation. In particular he could find himself in increasing demand socially. Many Rats will impress others at this time and make some useful friends and contacts. August and December could be particularly full and enjoyable months.

The Rat will also be active in domestic matters and will not only do much to assist family members but also enjoy arranging some special events and get-togethers. The closing months of the year will be expensive, though, and the Rat should be careful about spending too much on a whim.

Work-wise, he will need to be alert and watch developments closely, although the year’s end can provide the opportunity for many Rats to extend their skills and vary their role in what could be a potentially useful manner.

Overall, the Snake year may not have been an easy or smooth one for the Rat, but he will have learned much from it and will emerge with some achievements of which he can be proud.

The Year of the Horse begins on 31 January and will be a mixed one for the Rat. Although it will give him the chance to use his skills to advantage (and for resourcefulness the Rat is among the best), it does require care. Risks can backfire, and while the Rat may like to be at the forefront of activity, he needs to be mindful of prevailing conditions and wary of acting in haste.

However, while the aspects may be cautionary, the Horse year can have its benefits too. Some of the situations the Rat finds himself in will not only bring out his best but also enable him to learn more and ultimately make progress. The Horse year can also spring its surprises, and while some plans may not proceed as originally envisaged, better possibilities can arise in their place. In 2014 the Rat would do well to keep his wits about him.

One area which calls for special attention is the Rat’s relations with others. Although he has charm and great empathy, this is no time for him to be too independent. To go it alone or be obtuse could leave him isolated and vulnerable. In the Horse year he does need to consult others and listen to what they have to say. April, June, September and December could be the most socially active months of the year.

Rats enjoying romance or perhaps looking for romance will need to be especially aware of the feelings of others and not take them for granted. Being inattentive or preoccupied could cause some relationships to founder. By being mindful of such risks, however, the Rat can do a lot to prevent difficulties from arising, and the year will see some Rats both enjoying and strengthening their love for another person.

The need for awareness also applies to domestic situations. Here again, being busy or preoccupied could take its toll. Although the Rat likes to be central to whatever is going on, throughout the year he should consult others and show some flexibility when necessary. When making decisions or dealing with pressures, a joint approach will lead to better solutions. Domestic life can also be greatly helped by spending quality time together. That way, everyone will have the chance to appreciate some of the family news and occasions the Horse year will bring.

At work, the Rat will have plenty of opportunity to use his strengths to advantage and to impress others. At times of pressure or difficulty, his ability both to cope and to find ways round problems will be valued. However, despite his efforts, progress may not always be easy. If promotion opportunities arise or the Rat applies for another position, he could find himself competing against many experienced candidates and it may take considerable effort to make headway.

Rats seeking work will also find the Horse year requires determination. However, the Rat is a survivor, and his resourcefulness and commitment will show through and often enable him to secure a position he can build on in the future. Effort will be needed, but opportunities can arise suddenly and the Rat does need to be alert throughout the year. March, June, September and November could see encouraging work developments.

Throughout the year the Rat can help his situation by seizing any opportunities to add to his skills and working knowledge. Whether at work or in his own time, by developing himself in some way he can do much to strengthen his prospects.

Money matters will, however, need close attention. In 2014 the Rat should be wary of risk and examine the implications carefully if he enters into any new agreement. If he has any questions or doubts, he should seek advice before proceeding. With many outgoings and some expensive plans, he also needs to keep a tight rein over spending and, where possible, make advance provision for some of the larger purchases he has in mind. Good budgeting can make an important difference.

Overall, the Rat will need to be on his mettle in the Horse year. Lack of awareness, preoccupation and risk can all give rise to problems, and effort will be needed to make headway. However, it is during more challenging times that strengths can emerge and the Rat can demonstrate some of his finer qualities this year. His achievements will be well deserved, and by sharing them with others, he will not only enjoy them that much more, but also find that many can be built on in the following, more encouraging Goat year.

The Metal Rat

The Metal element can make a sign more resolute and determined, and this is especially the case with the Metal Rat. Always keen to make the most of himself, he is a doer and has considerable ability and presence. While 2014 will present its obstacles, by taking into account the prevailing conditions and adjusting as required, the Metal Rat can fare reasonably well.

One of the key requirements of the year is awareness. In almost all areas of his life the Metal Rat will need to observe what is going on, listen to others and think carefully about his situation. This is no time to go it alone or take action without adequate thought. Moments of impulsiveness could cost him dear.

In his home life, it is important that the Metal Rat shares any concerns with those close to him. The more liaison and dialogue there is in his household, the better for all. Greater co-operation will also lead to more practical projects in the home being successfully carried through. There may be important events to mark as well, and making arrangements together can help make the occasion more special. This is a year favouring a collective approach. If possible, the Metal Rat should aim to take a holiday with his loved ones too. The latter part of the year could bring additional travel opportunities.

With this likely to be an often busy year, the Metal Rat should also try to keep his lifestyle in balance and allow time for rest and relaxation as well as personal interests. If he feels stressed or that his life is in some way lacking, he should give himself some ‘me time’. Personal interests and relaxing pursuits can do the Metal Rat a lot of good this year.

He should also keep in regular contact with friends and, if invited to social occasions or intrigued by certain events, try to attend. This can be another way to achieve that all-important lifestyle balance. Metal Rats who are alone will find new interests can also be an excellent way to come into contact with others. Late March, April, June, September and December will see the most social activity. However, with the aspects as they are, any Metal Rat who is tempted to stray or take risks with a relationship could find problems occurring. Horse years tend not to be forgiving of personal lapses. Metal Rats, take note.

At work this can be a year of important developments. Although progress may be difficult, there will be the chance for many Metal Rats to develop their role, including taking on other responsibilities or adapting to new procedures and technology. With a willingness to embrace what occurs, they can find some aspects of their work particularly satisfying. Those who start the year feeling staid or disenchanted will particularly welcome the chance to take on more fulfilling duties. Securing promotion may not be easy this year, but the developments that do occur will often give the Metal Rat the chance to widen his role.

Metal Rats who are seeking work or looking to change employer will need to remain determined and persistent. With the number of vacancies often limited, these Metal Rats will need to emphasize their skills, experience and willingness to learn. Their communication skills can be very much to their advantage, however, and many will eventually secure a new and satisfying position. March, June, late August, September and November could see encouraging developments, but this is a year requiring effort and the willingness to adapt.

The Metal Rat will also need to handle his finances with care, including keeping a watch on outgoings and making early and ample allowance for obligations and more expensive plans. Financially, this is a time for discipline and the avoidance of risk. Throughout the year, if the Metal Rat has concerns over a financial matter, he should check the details and, if appropriate, obtain professional advice.

Overall, the Metal Rat will need to be thorough and careful this year and avoid acting too independently. With support, advice and good liaison with others, he will find problems can be considerably eased. He should also allow time to consider his approach rather than act in haste. But while the year will bring its pressures, the Metal Rat can still accomplish a great deal. Developing his skills and interests can be satisfying and often lead to other opportunities, especially in the following and more auspicious Goat year. The Horse year may be challenging for the Metal Rat, but its lessons can be considerable.

Tip for the Year

Be thorough and disciplined. With effort, awareness and support, you will have more chance of benefiting from the developments that will take place. Care and commitment are required this year.

The Water Rat

The Water Rat has a highly intuitive nature and is particularly adept at gauging situations and the feelings of others. This skill will stand him in good stead this year. It will be a demanding one for him, but by adapting as required, he can help both his present and future prospects.

Throughout the year it is important that the Water Rat consults others and listens to their advice. If he is considering any ideas or has any concerns, he will find that by talking these over with those around him, he can benefit from their assistance.

At work this will be a challenging year. New targets or objectives could be set and some Water Rats may have to adjust to new working procedures or new management. The demands and expectations can be high, but while this can be an exacting time and there may be some uncomfortable moments to endure along the way, the Water Rat can gain valuable skills and display his strengths. The importance of what is accomplished now should not be underestimated.

For Water Rats who are seeking work or who decide to move on from their present employer, the Horse year can be challenging. Obtaining a position will require considerable effort and it is important that the Water Rat makes the most of the support and information available, including from employment agencies, advisers and contacts. This way he may not only be alerted to more possibilities but also be advised of schemes (including training) that may help. While the competition will be considerable, by being prepared to adapt and learn, quite a few Water Rats will secure an interesting new position that they can subsequently build on. March, June, September and November could be important months for employment matters.

Financially, this is a year for discipline and control. The Water Rat should not only keep a close watch on his spending but also budget in advance for plans he has in mind. He also needs to be thorough when dealing with financial correspondence and seek advice should he have any problems or concerns. To make assumptions or take risks could be to his disadvantage. Money-wise, this is a year for care.

In view of the pressures the Water Rat is likely to face this year, it is also important that he gives some consideration to his lifestyle. This includes taking regular exercise and giving some thought to the quality of his diet as well as spending time on pursuits he enjoys. If a new activity or subject appeals to him, he should follow it up. Not only will this be of benefit now, but it can also open up possibilities for later.

The Water Rat will also value his social contacts during the year. Whether he is meeting friends or going to events that appeal to him, his social life can do him good as well as extend his circle of acquaintances. However, while a lot is set to go well, the Horse year does contain its awkward aspects and the Water Rat should be careful of saying things he may later regret or placing himself in a situation which could rebound on him. These words only apply to a minority of Water Rats, but the Horse year can bring problems for the unwary and lax. April, June, late August, September and December could see the most social activity.

The Water Rat’s domestic life will be especially busy this year and in view of the various commitments of family members, there will need to be good organization and some flexibility. Here the Water Rat’s attentiveness and ability to gauge the feelings of others will be especially appreciated. However, it is also important that household tasks and decisions are shared and that there is good co-operation between all. In addition, while family members will often be occupied with their own activities, the Water Rat should ensure that time is allowed for joint activities as well as to appreciate individual and family successes. Home life can be rewarding this year, but it does require input and mindfulness.

The Horse year is also capable of springing surprises, with travel being one. It could be that the Water Rat sees a late holiday offer that appeals to him or is invited to visit family and friends at short notice. By embracing such chances, he will find the spontaneity can make them all the more special.

Generally, the Year of the Horse will demand a lot of the Water Rat, but by rising to its challenges and being prepared to adapt and learn, he can benefit from what occurs. Throughout the year, he should liaise closely with those around him. With support and a carefully considered approach, he will get far more from the year and be able to sow seeds for later growth. In many ways this is a year of preparation for the better times that await, especially in 2015.

Tip for the Year

Seize any chances to add to your skills. By building on your experience, you will help new possibilities to open up. Your efforts can make this both a constructive and instructive time.

The Wood Rat

This year is significant for the Wood Rat. Not only does it mark the start of a new decade in his life, but a lot that he does during it can have important implications for his future. The year may not always be easy, but its lessons can prepare the Wood Rat for subsequent success.

One area of concern to many Wood Rats will be their work situation. Some may already be established in a particular career but feel they are not making the progress they would like. However, these Wood Rats should not underestimate their position and the experience they have built up. Their reputation, commitment and judgement are all valued, and as the year progresses many will find they are offered wider responsibilities and the chance of greater involvement. Although this can bring added pressure, it not only shows the faith more senior colleagues have in the Wood Rat’s abilities but will also allow him to add to his skills and learn more about his industry. Whenever the Wood Rat has the chance to further his role in some way, he should make the most of it, for what he does now can pave the way to more substantial advances in the future, particularly as opportunities are likely to arise next year.

There will, however, be some Wood Rats who are feeling unfulfilled in their present position and looking for a career change. For these Wood Rats, as well as those currently seeking work, the Horse year will be challenging, but despite some difficult and often disappointing moments, many Wood Rats will be able to secure entry into a new type of work. These Wood Rats will need to be adaptable and show they are willing to learn, but the positions they take on now can often give them the chance to establish themselves in a new career. March, June, September and November could see encouraging work developments.

A further benefit of the year will be the training many Wood Rats receive and the insights they are able to gain into the industry in which they work. Not only can these be helpful in their present position but they can also reveal aptitudes these Wood Rats can build on and can alert them to other possibilities in the future.

Similarly, Wood Rats who are seeking work will find that if they take advantage of any retraining or refresher courses they are eligible for, new ways forward can open up for them. These may not always be easy times, but important seeds for the future can now be sown.

As far as the Wood Rat’s personal interests are concerned, however, this can be an encouraging year. Some Wood Rats will already have acquired considerable expertise in a certain hobby or pursuit and will now have the chance to take this further, either by following up new ideas, setting themselves a more ambitious project or sharing their knowledge with others. Some may also find a personal interest of financial benefit. Whatever they do, in the Horse year all Wood Rats should set time aside for pursuits they enjoy. In addition, some may become intrigued by a new interest or form of recreation, including one with a keep-fit element, and what is started this year can have benefits both now and in the near future.

Financially, this is a time for discipline. With the Wood Rat’s existing commitments, as well as the plans and hopes he has for the year, he will need to keep a tight rein on spending and set money aside for specific requirements. With good control, he will be able to proceed with many of his ideas, possibly including exciting travel plans, but money does have to be managed well and risks avoided. Also, should the Wood Rat enter into any financial commitment, he should check the terms and obligations. Where financial matters are concerned, this is a year to be thorough and careful.

For personal relations, the Wood Rat will find it an eventful time. With his genial nature, he has a wide range of friends and contacts and over the year some of them can be especially helpful to him. Whenever he has concerns or anxieties, he should not hesitate to talk these over with those around him, who may not only be willing to help but also have experience of their own to draw on. In this sometimes demanding year the Wood Rat could particularly value the assistance he is given.

There will also be excellent opportunity for the Wood Rat to meet new people during the year and he will enjoy an almost immediate rapport with some of them. Late March, April, June, September and December could see the most social activity. However, while the Wood Rat’s relations with those around him will generally be positive, the aspects warn against acting thoughtlessly or taking risks. Wood Rats who are newly in love or perhaps looking for romance need to proceed particularly carefully. Time should be allowed to build a relationship, especially if it is to endure.

While the Horse year calls for care, it will also have its high points, including the marking of the Wood Rat’s thirtieth birthday. Not only will family and friends be keen to celebrate, but also to underline the affection they have for the Wood Rat. There could also be another personal event which is something of a milestone, possibly a personal decision, a family event or an addition to the family. The Wood Rat may find the Horse year bringing several significant moments. Many will also have important decisions to make concerning their accommodation. By discussing their ideas with their loved ones, these Wood Rats will be pleased with how their plans turn out. Domestically, this can be a full and eventful year.

Overall, the Wood Rat will need to proceed carefully in the Year of the Horse. However, by nature he is practical and alert, and provided he remains mindful of the feelings of others and takes advantage of the opportunities that come his way, he can lay down a firm foundation on which to build in the future. In particular, skills acquired in his work can prepare the way for the opportunities that await in the near future. His thirtieth year will require effort, but what he takes from it can go a long way towards helping him realize some of the aspirations that he has for this new and exciting decade in his life.