Kitabı oku: «Your Chinese Horoscope 2016: What the Year of the Monkey holds in store for you»

Contents

Cover

Title Page

Copyright

About the Author

Dedication

Epigraph

Acknowledgements

Introduction

The Chinese Years

Welcome to the Year of the Monkey

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

About the Publisher

Acknowledgements

In writing Your Chinese Horoscope 2016 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 2016 will prove interesting and helpful for the year ahead.

The Chinese Years

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

Goat 19 February 2015 to 7 February 2016

Monkey 8 February 2016 to 27 February 2017

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 Monkey

Whether swinging from branch to branch, playing chase with other Monkeys or observing his surroundings, the Monkey has great character and verve. And his energy can be seen in his own year.

Almost as soon as the Monkey year starts, its exciting and innovative nature will be apparent. On the world stage, events will erupt which will take some authorities by surprise. Factions and minorities will strive to be heard and their actions will lead to change. Particularly in more authoritarian areas, developments this year can be significant, even changing the geographical borders of some regions.

In view of the volatility that is being seen, throughout the year world leaders will frequently confer and in some cases put past animosities behind them and forge new alliances. Monkey years can be dramatic both politically and culturally. Past Monkey years have seen the birth of the Polish Solidarity movement, which ultimately led to so much change in Europe, students taking to the streets in Paris, rioting in Los Angeles and revolution in Hungary. This Monkey year will continue to shape history and leave a far-reaching legacy.

The United States celebrated the start of its nationhood in 1776, a previous Year of the Fire Monkey, and in this one, much attention will be focused on the presidential election. There will be great debate over the direction of domestic and foreign policy as well as increasing focus on American identity, and the campaign will be passionately fought, with some issues proving divisive and sometimes even causing rifts between party supporters. The campaign – its significance, its drama, but also its hope – will be an ongoing feature of 2016 and ultimately the newly elected president will promise ambitious reform.

The year’s political gyrations will also have an effect on stock markets around the world. There will be some major swings and some dramatic currency fluctuations. It was in a Monkey year that Black Wednesday occurred, an event forever marked in the annals of British fiscal history. Investors this year will require strong nerves, but despite the fluctuations, there will be major success stories and significant fortunes to be made.

Helping drive growth will be the launch of innovative products and inventions. Monkey years favour progress and this one will see some industries abuzz with new ideas. It has been said that Monkey years are times when anything can happen, and certainly in business, events will proceed at a swift pace.

The areas of science, technology and communication will be particularly prominent. Interestingly, it was in a Monkey year that Marconi launched the first public broadcasting service, which helped pave the way to much of the communication we enjoy today. Monkey years are pioneering and, perhaps surprisingly, it was only 12 years ago that Facebook was launched, an event which helped give rise to the social networking phenomenon.

In space, too, pioneering developments will take place. More will be discovered about the universe as probes reach new areas and reveal more about distant planets and galaxies. Again, humanity’s quest for knowledge will be greatly advanced this year.

Monkey years are also trendsetting. In fashion, bright new styles could catch the imagination of many, while in entertainment, music and cinematography there will be exciting developments. It was in a Monkey year that Elvis Presley came to prominence with ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ and in the process opened up a new musical genre. This year will again witness pivotal cultural moments.

Sadly, however, no year can escape tragedy, and this one will be no exception. The vagaries of weather systems will continue to cause havoc, with the year being marked by some horrendous disasters. Some of what occurs will lead to even greater attention being given to climate change and new actions will be agreed. But not all misfortune will be the result of natural catastrophe. Unfortunately, Monkey years have been marked by violence and some high-profile assassinations. These include those of President Doumer of France, Senator Robert Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Archbishop Romero and John Lennon, and while it is hoped that 2016 will be free of such acts, the portents are not promising.

A major event of the year will be the summer Olympics held in Brazil. The games will be colourful and a visual feast. For a few weeks at least, billions around the world will enjoy following the fortunes of athletes as well as marvel at some mesmerizing performances. Quite a few long-standing records will be broken.

For the individual, Monkey years can be regarded as times of great possibility. They favour enterprise and progress. They also contain the seeds of personal growth and making more of the potential that lies within. Each of us has the ability to put our talents to greater use. In the Monkey year, aim to make this year special – whether by nurturing your talents, working on an idea or contributing more in some way. Monkey years have energy and opportunity for us all. Enjoy what this year brings.

Good luck and good fortune.

The Rat

5 February 1924 to 23 January 1925 — Wood Rat

24 January 1936 to 10 February 1937 — Fire Rat

10 February 1948 to 28 January 1949 — Earth Rat

28 January 1960 to 14 February 1961 — Metal Rat

15 February 1972 to 2 February 1973 — Water Rat

2 February 1984 to 19 February 1985 — Wood Rat

19 February 1996 to 6 February 1997 — Fire Rat

7 February 2008 to 25 January 2009 — Earth Rat

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 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 2016

Whether introducing changes to his lifestyle, making alterations to his work or pursuing his interests, the Rat will have made the Year of the Goat (19 February 2015–7 February 2016) an active one. In its closing stages he will continue to be involved in a great many activities and will need to remain well-organized and decide on priorities, otherwise some weeks may seem a whirl and he may not always use his time in the most effective way.

This is particularly the case in his work. New demands, busy schedules and interruptions could frequently occur and the Rat will need to focus and beware of distractions or wasting time on unimportant matters. However, amid the activity, there will still be the chance to contribute and make an impact. For Rats seeking work or hoping for promotion, August and October could be significant.

The Rat will also have many outgoings at the end of the Goat year and should watch his spending levels and plan out his more substantial purchases.

Domestically and socially, he will be in demand, with many chances to enjoy parties and other occasions and spend time with family and friends. In his home life, if there are certain tasks he would like to get done, he will find that by talking these over with those around him, he may not only be able to get them started but also finished by the year’s end.

Goat years favour new friendships and romance, and over the course of this one, unattached Rats could meet someone who could become important over the next 12 months. August, September and early 2016 could be significant and lively times.

Overall, the Goat year will have been a busy one for the Rat, but while it will have brought its pressures, there will also have been many achievements that the Rat can now build on. His prospects are on the up!

One of the strengths of the Rat is his resourceful nature. When he spots an opportunity (which he does often), he invariably makes the most of it. And the Monkey year will contain opportunities aplenty. This is a favourable year for the Rat and will offer him the chance to make more of his potential and enjoy some deserved success.

The Year of the Monkey starts on 8 February and almost at once the Rat could be blessed with some surprising good fortune. Whether acquiring something he has been wanting for some time, receiving an encouraging response to an enquiry or application, or being enthused by an idea, he can find the Monkey year getting off to a promising start. And in true Rat style, he should aim to make the most of it. Events can happen quickly in the Monkey year and chances need to be seized before the moment is lost.

This will particularly be the case in the Rat’s work. Many organizations will be implementing changes as well as adapting to new markets and conditions, and by being involved and aware, the Rat will often be well-placed to benefit. When openings occur in his place of work, or his industry as a whole, his experience can stand him in good stead. There will be excellent chances to take on greater and more remunerative responsibilities this year. Especially for Rats who have been in the same position for some time, this is a year to move forward, and as soon as the Rat learns of an opening, he should be quick to follow it up. Speed and initiative count for a lot this year.

Late February, March, June, October and November could see encouraging developments and such is the nature of the year that new responsibilities taken on in the early months (even if initially offered on a temporary basis) could pave the way to something more substantial later on.

For Rats who are unfulfilled in their present position and those seeking work, the prospects are also encouraging. However, to benefit, these Rats should not be too restrictive in the type of work they consider. By widening their options they may discover a position which not only suits them but also offers potential for the future.

In addition, there could be increased opportunities for the Rat to travel in connection with his work this year, or possibly relocate. Also, with this being a year favouring self-development, if there are chances for him to go on training courses or set time aside for study, his efforts could reward him handsomely. For Rats currently on educational courses, this is a time when commitment and hard work can lead to good results which can be built upon in the future.

Although the Rat will be involved in a great many activities this year, it is also important he makes time to enjoy recreational pursuits. If there are interests he is keen to develop, he should allow himself chance to do so. Regular ‘me time’ can enrich his lifestyle.

Travel is also favourably aspected, and if he is able, the Rat should aim to take a holiday this year. To enjoy his time away even more, he will find it helpful to read about his destination prior to leaving. Travel, including short breaks and weekends away, can give rise to some particular delights, notably in the summer.

The Rat’s progress at work may help financially and many Rats will now have the opportunity to proceed with some plans and acquisitions for the home. However, the Rat would do well to consider his purchases carefully rather than rush. Also, any provision he can make for the future could be something he is grateful for at a later date. This generally favourable year rewards good management and control.

On a personal level, the Rat will be kept busy. For the unattached Rat, the Monkey year will contain many social opportunities, with good chances to meet others, make friends and, for quite a few, find romance. Rats already enjoying romance could find this becoming more significant, and some will marry or settle down together. Monkey years favour relationships and the sociable Rat will enjoy the good times this one offers. March, May, August and November could be busy months for meeting others.

The Rat’s home life will also be active. His home is important to him and he is always looking for ways to improve it. However, while he may be a driving force in making changes, he does need to discuss his ideas and be mindful of the suggestions of others, especially where choices and potentially disruptive projects are concerned.

Similarly, with the changes in working patterns that the Rat and other family members may experience this year, there needs to be some flexibility from all concerned. The Monkey year is a time for dialogue as well as for enjoying quality time with others. But the Rat’s thoughtfulness will make a difference in many a home this year.

In general, the Monkey year holds encouraging prospects for the Rat. In his work, this is a year favouring growth, while his social life can bring him considerable pleasure and his home life can be gratifying, especially when he joins with others to see through projects and enjoy personal and family successes. To make things happen, however, he does need to set his ideas in motion. To drift or hold back could lead to him missing some fine opportunities. By being active and involved, however, the Rat can reap some good rewards this year.

The Metal Rat

The Metal Rat is a redoubtable figure. Not only is he determined and conscientious, but also resourceful. When he senses an opportunity, he is prepared to follow it up and see what transpires. His strengths and qualities can serve him well this year.

In almost all areas of his life he can look forward to positive developments, and if there are particular plans he would like to carry out, now is the time. Throughout the year, he will find those around him helpful, and with backing, and in some instances combined effort, a lot can happen for him.

At work, the aspects are especially encouraging. Although many Metal Rats will have made progress in recent years, in the Monkey year they will be given the opportunity to build on what they do. Some could find themselves offered a more specialist role or project, while others will be favourably placed for promotion. This is a year favouring progress and there will be opportunities for the Metal Rat to build on his expertise.

The majority of Metal Rats will remain with their current employer over the year, but some may be tempted elsewhere, perhaps drawn by a new challenge as well as better remuneration. By remaining alert for openings and talking to contacts in their industry, quite a few will make the change they want. In some instances, this could involve a considerable change of duties, and even relocation. However, these Metal Rats will feel more motivated than they have for some while.

The aspects are also encouraging for Metal Rats seeking work. As well as keeping alert for vacancies, they could find it helpful to talk to employment advisers, friends and contacts. They could be informed of a suitable position or given an idea worth pursuing.

Events can happen quickly in the Monkey year and in some instances an application could swiftly be followed up, or an opening found and offer made within a matter of days. Opportunities could arise at almost any time, but late February, March, June, October and November could be key months.

Progress at work can also help financially. Many Metal Rats will increase their income over the year and some will also receive funds from another source or put an enterprising idea to profitable use. As a result, the Metal Rat may decide it is time to make additions to his home, update equipment and treat himself and his loved ones to special occasions or trips. However, he should be wary of rush. If he considers his options carefully, he will not only make better decisions but also be more likely to identify favourable purchasing opportunities.

The Metal Rat has an enquiring mind and will again take pleasure in furthering his interests. Sometimes new equipment and knowledge and shared pursuits will make his activities even more fulfilling. With travel favourably aspected, he could also find his interests taking him out more, perhaps to special events.

The Metal Rat can also look forward to a rewarding social life and his circle of acquaintances and contacts is set to grow. For Metal Rats who are unattached and would welcome new friendships, joining groups and pursuing interests can be excellent ways of meeting others. For some, significant romance can beckon. March, May, August and mid-October to November could see the most social opportunities.

The busy nature of the year will also extend to the Metal Rat’s domestic life and it is important that there is good co-operation between all in his household. That way, a lot can be undertaken and some ambitious projects carried through.

Over the year there could also be a major family occasion taking place, most likely involving a younger family member. The Metal Rat will be keen to be involved and will once again provide helpful input. The summer could be a particularly busy and rewarding time and further good news could come near the year’s end.

The Year of the Monkey is one of opportunity for the Metal Rat, and with a sense of purpose and his engaging personal qualities, he can fare well. This is a time for looking to move forward. For the determined and enterprising, much can be accomplished and enjoyed.

Tip for the Year

Act with determination. You have much in your favour this year, but the initiative rests with you. Believe in yourself and go forward.

The Water Rat

One of the hallmarks of the Water Rat’s personality is his keen and enterprising nature. This year some important opportunities will open up for him and if there are particular ambitions he is keen to realize or plans he wants to set in motion, this is very much a time for action. By making a start – ideally early on in the year – not only can he see certain activities and hopes gather momentum but also lead to further and sometimes unanticipated opportunities. Luck will favour the bold and enterprising.

In the Water Rat’s work this will be a year of important developments. In view of the expertise he has built up, his current employer could look to him to take on new responsibilities. Particularly if he is in a creative and/or sales environment, he could find his ideas encouraged and his input potentially significant. Another factor to his advantage will be the good working relations he enjoys with many of those around him. The respect he has earned and his ability to communicate effectively can lead to him taking a greater role. This is a year when he can make his strengths count and in the process move his career forward.

While many Water Rats will make (often substantial) progress with their current employer, some will be tempted by better prospects elsewhere. Again, once enquiries and applications are made, interesting developments could quickly follow in this encouraging year.

The favourable aspects also apply to Water Rats currently seeking work. These Water Rats should be open to considering different types of work and acquiring new skills. Much can be achieved this year and many will have the chance to prove themselves in an often new and greater capacity.

From the beginning of the Monkey year to early April and June, October and November could be key times for work matters.

Progress made at work will improve the income of many Water Rats this year and quite a few will benefit from an additional payment or gift. Financially, the aspects are encouraging, although money matters do require discipline, otherwise any extra earnings could quickly be spent, and not always in the best way. Ideally, if there are major purchases the Water Rat would like to make, he should make early provision for these as well as take the time to compare options. With advice and good management, he could be particularly pleased with some of his acquisitions, especially new equipment.

With this a year for action, a few Water Rats will decide to move house. Again, once they start to make enquiries, they could quickly get the process underway. At all times the Water Rat will need to be mindful of costs and other implications, and seek advice as necessary, but this is a year when a lot can be accomplished.

Travel, too, could feature on the agenda of many Water Rats. In addition to any holiday taken with loved ones, there could be travel opportunities involving work or key interests. During the year many Water Rats will travel more than usual and enjoy visiting some impressive places.

Another encouraging aspect of the year concerns the Water Rat’s own interests. Something he hears or sees could whet his curiosity and reawaken a former interest or tempt him to try something new. A key aspect of the Monkey year is opportunity, and by being aware and game, the Water Rat can derive much pleasure from the activities he pursues. In addition, those who enjoy writing and other creative pursuits should consider putting their talents to greater use and promote anything they produce. There could be surprises in store in this encouraging year.

With his interest in others and good conversational skills, the Water Rat enjoys good relations with many people and can look forward to a variety of pleasing social occasions over the year. Whether going to parties, meeting friends or attending other gatherings, he will find new contacts can be made and friendships forged. For the unattached, a chance meeting can quickly blossom into romance. In many respects, the Monkey year is one that will surprise and delight the Water Rat. Also, if at any time he is in a dilemma or just wants to run his thoughts past another person, there will be many who are ready and willing to help. March, May, August and November could see the most social opportunity.

The progressive nature of the Monkey year will also filter through to the Water Rat’s home life. In addition to assisting family members, he will have several plans he will be keen to get underway. Again, once these are started, a lot will happen quickly, and initially modest undertakings may become more extensive. The more that can be undertaken jointly, the more gratifying the outcome will be. Domestically, this can be a busy and rewarding year. Change could also be on the cards for several family members, especially involving their education or work. The summer and end of the year could be especially active.

By the time the Monkey year draws to a close, many Water Rats will be taken aback by all that has taken place. There will have been many changes and some important ambitions will have been realized. Certain plans will have taken different courses than expected, but in true Water Rat fashion, the Water Rat will have made the most of what has opened up. This will be a busy year, but it is one for building, for moving forward and making the most of ideas and strengths. And as well as surprises, it can bring the Water Rat some well-deserved success.