Читать книгу Your Chinese Horoscope 2013: What the year of the snake holds in store for you - Neil Somerville, Neil Somerville - Страница 10

The more considered the way,

the more considerable the journey.

The Ox is born under the signs of equilibrium and tenacity. He is a hard and conscientious worker and sets about everything he does in a resolute, methodical and determined manner. He has considerable leadership qualities and is often admired for his tough and uncompromising nature. He knows what he wants to achieve in life and, as far as possible, will not be deflected from his ultimate objective.

The Ox takes his responsibilities and duties very seriously. He is decisive and quick to take advantage of any opportunity that comes his way. He is also sincere and places a great deal of trust in his friends and colleagues. He is, nevertheless, something of a loner. He is a quiet and private individual and often keeps his thoughts to himself. He also cherishes his independence and prefers to set about things in his own way rather than be bound by the dictates of others or influenced by outside pressures.

The Ox tends to have a calm and tranquil nature, but if something angers him or he feels that someone has let him down, he can have a fearsome temper. He can also be stubborn and obstinate and this can lead him into conflict with others. Usually he will succeed in getting his own way, but should things go against him he is a poor loser and will take any defeat or setback extremely badly.

The Ox is often a deep thinker and rather studious. He is not particularly renowned for his sense of humour and does not take kindly to new gimmicks or anything too innovative. He is too solid and traditional for that and prefers to stick to the more conventional norm.

His home is very important to him and in some respects he treats it as a private sanctuary. His family tends to be closely knit and the Ox will make sure that each member does their fair share around the house. He tends to be a hoarder, but he is always well organized and neat. He also places great importance on punctuality and there is nothing that infuriates him more than to be kept waiting, particularly if it is due to someone’s inefficiency. The Ox can be a hard taskmaster!

Once settled in a job or house the Ox will quite happily remain there for many years. He does not like change and he is also not particularly keen on travel. He does, however, enjoy gardening and other outdoor pursuits and he will often spend much of his spare time out of doors. He is usually an excellent gardener and whenever possible will make sure he has a large area of ground to maintain. He usually prefers to live in the country than the town.

Due to his dedicated and dependable nature the Ox will usually do well in his chosen career, providing he is given enough freedom to act on his own initiative. He invariably does well in politics, agriculture and careers that need specialized training. He is also very gifted artistically and many Oxen have enjoyed considerable success as musicians or composers.

The Ox is not as outgoing as some and it often takes him a long time to establish friendships and feel relaxed in another person’s company. His courtships are likely to be long, but once he is settled he will remain devoted and loyal to his partner. He is particularly well suited to those born under the signs of the Rat, Rabbit, Snake and Rooster. He can also establish a good relationship with the Monkey, Dog, Pig and another Ox, but he will find that he has little in common with the whimsical and sensitive Goat. He will also find it difficult to get on with the Horse, Dragon and Tiger – the Ox prefers a quiet and peaceful existence and those born under these three signs tend to be a little too lively and impulsive for his liking.

The female Ox has a kind and caring nature and her home and family are very much her pride and joy. She always tries to do her best for her partner and can be a most conscientious and loving parent. She is an excellent organizer and a very determined person who will often succeed in getting what she wants in life. She usually has a deep interest in the arts and is often a talented artist or musician.

The Ox is a very down-to-earth character. He is sincere, loyal and unpretentious. He can, however, be rather reserved and to some he may appear distant and aloof. He has a quiet nature, but underneath he is very strong-willed and ambitious. He has the courage of his convictions and is often prepared to stand up for what he believes to be right, regardless of the consequences. He inspires confidence and trust and throughout his life he will rarely be short of people who are ready to support him.

THE FIVE DIFFERENT TYPES OF OX

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 Ox are described below, together with the years in which they were exercising their influence. Therefore Oxen born in 1961 are Metal Oxen, Oxen born in 1913 and 1973 are Water Oxen, and so on.

Metal Ox: 1961

This Ox is confident and very strong-willed. He can be blunt and forthright in his views and is not afraid of speaking his mind. He sets about his objectives with a dogged determination, but he can become so involved in his various activities that he can be oblivious to the thoughts and feelings of those around him, and this can sometimes be to his detriment. He is honest and dependable and will never promise more than he can deliver. He has a good appreciation of the arts and usually has a small circle of very good and loyal friends.

Water Ox: 1913, 1973

This Ox has a sharp and penetrating mind. He is a good organizer and sets about his work in a methodical manner. He is not as narrow-minded as some of the other types of Ox and is more willing to involve others in his plans and aspirations. He usually has very high moral standards and is often attracted to careers in public service. He is a good judge of character and has such a friendly and persuasive manner that he usually experiences little difficulty in securing his objectives. He is popular and has an excellent way with children.

Wood Ox: 1925, 1985

The Wood Ox conducts himself with an air of dignity and authority and will often take a leading role in any enterprise in which he becomes involved. He is very self-confident and is direct in his dealings with others. He does, however, have a quick temper and has no hesitation in speaking his mind. He has tremendous drive and willpower and an extremely good memory. He is particularly loyal and devoted to the members of his family and has a most caring nature.

Fire Ox: 1937, 1997

The Fire Ox has a powerful and assertive personality and is a hard and conscientious worker. He holds strong views and has very little patience when things do not go his way. He can also get carried away in the excitement of the moment and does not always take into account the views of those around him. He nevertheless has many leadership qualities and will often reach positions of power, eminence and wealth. He usually has a small group of loyal and close friends and is very devoted to his family.

Earth Ox: 1949, 2009

This Ox sets about everything he does in a sensible and level-headed manner. He is ambitious but also realistic in his aims and is often prepared to work long hours to secure his objectives. He is shrewd in financial and business matters and is a very good judge of character. He has a quiet nature and is greatly admired for his sincerity and integrity. He is also very loyal to his family and friends and his views are often sought.

PROSPECTS FOR THE OX IN 2013

The Year of the Dragon (23 January 2012–9 February 2013) will have been a variable one for the Ox and the closing months will be busy but not without opportunity.

One of the many features of the Dragon year is that a lot happens very quickly and in the remaining months of it the Ox needs to keep his wits about him and be flexible in approach. To be too obtuse or vent his feelings too forcibly could cause problems and undermine some of what he is hoping to do. He needs to tread carefully.

At work many Oxen could face additional pressures. While demanding, these will often give the Ox greater chance to use his judgement and demonstrate his skills, and considerably enhance his reputation in the process. Oxen who are seeking work should remember that Dragon years favour initiative. If they are quick at following up suitable vacancies, quite a few of them could secure a position, even if only a temporary one, before the year’s end.

With many expenses likely in the closing months of the year, the Ox should try to make early provision for these as well as be disciplined in everyday spending.

He can, though, derive much pleasure from his home and social life at this time, and will not only benefit from spending time with family and friends but also from their advice and encouragement. September, December and early January could be particularly active times, and for the unattached, affairs of the heart could add some excitement to the closing months of the Dragon year.

The Year of the Snake begins on 10 February and the Ox will not only feel more comfortable with its more measured pace but can also look forward to making good headway. Snake years suit the Ox’s personality and in this one his prospects are bright.

For Oxen who may start the year nursing disappointment or regret, this is a time to look firmly ahead rather than feel fettered by what has gone before. These Oxen should regard 2013 as the start of a new chapter, one offering scope and possibility.

The Ox’s work situation in particular can present some excellent opportunities. In view of their recent endeavours, many Oxen will be well placed to be considered for a greater role. When opportunities arise, these Oxen should put themselves forward. Also, while the Ox is usually diligent and focused on his duties, he should also make a point of working closely with colleagues and taking the time to build up contacts. His efforts and dependable manner will impress many. Snake years reward effort and application.

For Oxen who feel unfulfilled in their present position as well as those seeking work, again the Snake year can open up important opportunities. By giving careful thought to what they would like to do and investigating possibilities, these Oxen can see some interesting chances arising. To benefit, they need to be active in their quest, but persistence and tenacity will prevail. The positions some obtain will mark a considerable change in their duties and involve a steep learning curve, but a key feature of the Snake year is that it is a time of possibility. February, April, June and November could see particularly encouraging developments.

Snake years also favour learning and if any Ox feels an additional skill or qualification could help his prospects, he should consider setting time aside to acquire this. Whether enrolling on a course, studying online or doing some reading and research by himself, he will find furthering his knowledge and skills can not only be satisfying but also an often valuable investment in himself. For Oxen with specific aspirations, this would be an excellent year to work towards these.

This emphasis on personal development also applies to the Ox’s own interests. Whether he prefers creative pursuits, practical projects or something more outward bound, he can derive much satisfaction from setting himself projects and using his ideas and skills.

Progress at work can help financially and some Oxen will have the chance to supplement their income through a hobby or interest. Hard work and enterprise will be well rewarded this year. However, the Ox should manage his money well, making allowance for his commitments and, if possible, reducing any borrowings. If he is able, he should take advantage of any tax incentives to save or contribute to a pension policy. His prudence and discipline will reward him in future years.

The Ox’s social life is also pleasingly aspected. Although it can be some time before he feels properly at ease with another person, he will find he gels quickly with some people he meets through his interests or work situation and they will soon become part of his trusted social circle. For the unattached, romantic prospects are encouraging and quite a few Oxen will marry or settle down this year. For socializing, March, June to early August and October can be special months.

One cautionary word does need to be sounded, however: the Ox does tend to immerse himself in his various activities and he needs to be careful that this does not cause him to be inattentive or preoccupied when in company. Also, if tired, he should ensure he does not to take out his irritations on others. No year is free of difficult moments and at such times the Ox does need to exercise care and be mindful.

The Ox’s home life will be busy over the year, and with so much activity, it is important there is good co-operation. If the Ox has particular ideas about home improvements, purchases, a possible holiday or special occasions, he will find that mentioning these early on will often give them a better chance of happening. In addition, with the encouraging aspects surrounding the Ox this year, there may be personal successes to share.

Overall, the Year of the Snake offers great possibility for the Ox. He sets about his activities with considerable resolve and this year he will see a lot open up for him. In addition, he will benefit from the support, goodwill and encouragement offered by others. In 2013 he will have a lot in his favour and his purposeful actions will help make this an often special year.

The Metal Ox

The Metal Ox has a determined nature. He is a doer and is also highly perceptive, and in the Snake year his abilities can reward him well.

To help get the most from the year, he should give some serious thought to what he would like to see happen over the next 12 months. Having some ideas in mind will not only give him something purposeful to strive for but can also help motivate and inspire him.

Work prospects are particularly encouraging. Metal Oxen who are well established in a particular profession will now have an excellent chance to take their career to a new level, either through a promotion, perhaps one the Metal Ox has been working towards for some time, or through being offered greater responsibilities or a different role. For many Metal Oxen, this will be a year of progress and their commitment will be recognized and rewarded.

The aspects are also encouraging for those who would welcome more major change as well as those seeking a position. Although the job-seeking process will be difficult, by keeping alert, making enquiries and considering different ways in which they could use their skills, these Metal Oxen could see some interesting possibilities opening up. To strengthen their application, they should find out more about the position they are applying for and emphasize their experience. Their initiative and tenacity can often lead to a new opportunity. February, April, June and November could see particularly good possibilities, but chances could arise at almost any time this year.

An important aspect of the year will be the way the Metal Ox is encouraged to make greater use of certain skills. He should take full advantage of any training offered as well as keep informed about developments in his industry. Such knowledge can not only be useful now but also as he looks to progress or considers other possibilities.

The progress the Metal Ox makes at work can help financially and he may also receive funds from another source. Nevertheless, he should manage his situation well, budgeting for commitments and making provision for future plans. He could find it helpful to review his position and if he is able to reduce borrowings, move funds to a more suitable account or take advantage of tax incentives to save or supplement his pension policy, he should consider this. With care, and advice where necessary, he can improve his financial situation as well as benefit from more major plans and purchases.

With his personal interests, again he should make the most of the encouraging aspects of the year. By allowing time to enjoy and develop his interests or setting himself purposeful new pursuits, he will be pleased with what he gets to do and the benefits that follow on. For Metal Oxen who enjoy more expressive activities in particular, this is a good time to explore new ideas and take their skills further. Metal Oxen who have let their interests lapse should consider starting something new over the year. They will enjoy the possibilities that this can open up.

The Metal Ox’s activities can also lead to meeting new people, and although he may sometimes be guarded in manner (a typical Ox trait), he should still make the most of such opportunities. By getting to know others and, in his work situation or with certain key interests, raising his profile and networking, he can do himself a lot of good. This is no year to keep himself to himself or be too independent in approach.

For Metal Oxen who would welcome new friends or romance, the Snake year again offers bright prospects, although these Metal Oxen will need to take the initiative and go out more. Positive action on their part can help make this an interesting and improved year. Late February, March, June to early August and October could see the most social activity and, for some, romantic opportunities.

The Metal Ox’s domestic life will also be busy, and with possible alterations to his work routine, some adjustments may be needed. At times of change, the implications do need to be talked through, and here the Ox should be open and forthcoming. Also, this is an excellent year for proceeding with ideas for the home, and good planning and co-operation will help. Domestically, this can be an active year marked with personal and family success and satisfying home undertakings.

Overall, this is a year favouring action and commitment, but it does require the Metal Ox to make decisions and then act. He should also liaise with others rather than attempt too much single-handed. With co-operation and support, he can make even more of this good, interesting and personally successful year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Act. With initiative and effort, you can accomplish a great deal this year. Also, be mindful of others and consult them. This year has great potential for you – use it well.

The Water Ox

This year not only marks the start of a new decade in the Water Ox’s life but also offers growth, choice and some notable personal success.

One of the many factors in the Water Ox’s favour this year will be the way he is able to build on his experience. Whether in his work, interests or ideas, his background and diligence can serve him well. This is very much a time for moving ahead and, for some, drawing a line under recent disappointments and concentrating on the present and near future.

Work prospects are particularly encouraging and many Water Oxen will be well placed to put in for a greater role. Not only will they feel they feel the time is ripe for advancement, but some will also be helped by developments around them, possibly through new positions being created or more senior personnel moving on. However they come about, there will be opportunities for the Water Ox to benefit.

For Water Oxen desiring more major change or seeking work, again the Snake year can be one of interesting possibility. New companies or industries may be developing in the area where the Water Ox lives or he may see a vacancy that very much appeals to him. By putting himself forward and showing initiative, he may well be successful in his quest. Also, he should not let any rejection weaken his resolve. Persistence will pay off. February, April, June and November could see important developments, but opportunities could arise at almost any time.

Progress at work will also help financially and many Water Oxen may enjoy a rise in income over the year. Some could also benefit from a bonus or gift. Generally, the Snake year can mark an improvement in the Water Ox’s situation. However, to benefit, he will need to remain disciplined and take his time when considering larger purchases and plans.

The element of Water helps make the Water Ox a good communicator and throughout the year family, friends and colleagues will often seek out his views. While he will be glad to assist, he should also avail himself of the help that others can give. This includes getting feedback on ideas, asking for support at busy times and, in work matters, seeking information or expert opinion. The Water Ox may like to do a lot by himself, but he will be helped by readily involving others in his decisions and activities.

He will also have a good opportunity to get to know others over the year. As his work situation changes, he will have the chance to meet new colleagues, and his interests and friends can also introduce him to new people. He will enjoy a particularly good rapport with some of those he meets this year and important new friendships can be made. For the unattached, romantic prospects are also excellent, with some Water Oxen meeting their future partner. March, June to early August, late September and October could see the most social activity.

For Water Oxen who are starting the year dispirited and alone, the Snake year can mark the start of a general improvement in their situation. To help, they should consider what positive changes they could make, including perhaps starting a new hobby, enrolling on a course or joining an activity group. By doing something definite, they can help bring something new and purposeful into their lives. The Snake year is one of possibility.

Although the Water Ox generally keeps himself active, he should also pay attention to his well-being over the year and make sure he has a healthy diet and takes appropriate exercise. To be neglectful of this could leave him lethargic and prone to minor ailments. Water Oxen, take note.

In his home life, the Water Ox can look forward to some special times. Not only will those close to him be keen to mark his fortieth birthday, but there could be several other occasions to celebrate. In addition there may well be chances to enjoy a holiday and trips out with loved ones, and the Snake year may contain quite a few high points and surprises. However, while a lot will go well, it is important that there is good co-operation and that plans (as well as any problems) are talked through. This is not a year for the Water Ox to keep his thoughts to himself, but one favouring openness and sharing.

Overall, the Snake year holds considerable possibility for the Water Ox, and by taking action, he can make important headway. His relations with others will be positive and he will be encouraged by the support and affection shown him. The Water Ox is ambitious and keen to make the most of himself, and as he enters his fortieth year, his actions, determination and considerable personal skills can help get this new decade in his life off to a successful start.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Take action. Purpose and determination can lead to a lot opening up for you. To make the most of yourself and the year’s encouraging trends, have faith in yourself and what you know in your heart you can do.

The Wood Ox

The Wood Ox will have seen a lot happen in recent years. There will have been successes and some memorable times, but there will have been disappointments too. The previous Dragon year in particular could have been demanding. However, as the Snake year begins, the Wood Ox can look forward to a shift in fortunes. This is a progressive year and with a willingness to put himself forward, he can realize some of the hopes that he has been nurturing for some time.

Almost as soon as the Snake year begins, if not shortly before, the Wood Ox will sense that this is a time when his actions can make a difference and, feeling more determined, he will quickly put his strengths to good use.

One area in which he will be keen to see change will be his work situation. Wood Oxen who have been in the same position for some time will now feel ready to take on new challenges. Whether with their existing employer or elsewhere, if they consider ways in which they can build on their experience, their background can make them particularly strong and often successful candidates when suitable vacancies arise.

For Wood Oxen seeking work or feeling disillusioned with what they are currently doing, again the Snake year can have important developments in store. Although the job-seeking process can be hard and there will be disappointments along the way, by having self-belief and emphasizing their skills and willingness to learn, many will be given a position with exciting potential. What is started in the Snake year can often be significant. February, April, June and November could see some good opportunities.

The Wood Ox can also help his situation by making the most of any training that is available. Wood Oxen who take on a new role in particular will find that adding to their skills and learning more about their industry will not only help with their present duties but could also indicate possible ways forward. The Wood Ox should also work closely with his colleagues and be an active member of any team. His conscientious nature can impress, and for those who take on new duties early on in 2013, further advances are possible later in the year.

The progress the Wood Ox makes at work can also lead to a rise in income and some Wood Oxen may be helped by receiving an additional sum or gift. However, to make the most of this, the Wood Ox will need to remain disciplined and, where possible, budget for specific requirements, possibly including deposits he needs to put down. Also, when considering major purchases or entering into an agreement, he should check the terms carefully and, where appropriate, seek professional advice. Financially, he can do well this year, but he will need to be thorough and avoid risk.

Although the Wood Ox generally keeps himself active, with the possibility of long and often tiring days, it is important that he gives some consideration to his wellbeing this year and does not skimp on exercise or allow the quality of his diet to drop. To be at his best, he does need to look after himself and, if necessary, seek advice.

It is also important that he keeps his lifestyle in balance and allows time to enjoy his interests. Often these have a good social element too. The Wood Ox has a curious nature and if he sees a new interest or activity that appeals to him, he should find out more. Here again, quite a few Wood Oxen will find that what is started this year can develop into something of greater importance later on. March, June to early August and October could see the most social activity, but there will be many chances for the Wood Ox to meet many new people this year and make some good friends and contacts. For those who are enjoying or perhaps hoping for romance, the Snake year can be special and a chance meeting may become significant.

The Wood Ox’s domestic life will be busy and a lot can be achieved over the year. Wood Oxen with a partner are especially likely to have many plans and hopes. Quite a few will also benefit from fortunate developments, especially as plans are set in motion. However, while the aspects are favourable, it is important that the Wood Ox seeks advice, especially on matters that could have important implications. Talking these through with relations or professional advisers can not only assist the Wood Ox in what he wants to do but also alert him to possible problems. The Wood Ox may like to retain a certain independence, but throughout the year he does need to avail himself of the help and support that are on offer. Certain plans and activities can be made a lot easier this way. Wood Oxen, take note.

Overall, the Year of the Snake can be an important one for the Wood Ox. It will offer him the chance to develop ideas and strengths as well as share meaningful times with others. To fully benefit the Wood Ox will need to act with determination and remain alert. The Snake year can spring surprises and bring unexpected possibilities. The Wood Ox has much to offer and in many areas will fare very well this year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Make the most of opportunities and use them to gain new experience and knowledge and advance your situation. This is a positive year for you. Use it well.

The Fire Ox

This will be a satisfying year for the Fire Ox, with many activities going well. A key feature of the Snake year is that it encourages learning and personal development, and by making the most of his ideas and opportunities, the Fire Ox will be able to get a lot out of it.

For the Fire Ox born in 1997 this can prove an especially important year. As well as having often significant exams to prepare for, many of these young Fire Oxen will be required to select subjects for more detailed study and give some thought to the longer term. A lot will be expected of the Fire Ox this year, but by giving his best and working consistently, he can not only make good headway but also make more of particular strengths. In some cases, he could be offered extra tuition or granted the use of special facilities, and by taking advantage of what is available, he can gain a great deal.

Throughout the year the Fire Ox should also be alert to opportunities to try new subjects, join activity groups or explore new interests. By being willing to try things out, he can not only derive a lot of pleasure from his pursuits but also get to know new people. For many Fire Oxen, this is a year of fine opportunity.

The young Fire Ox will also very much enjoy his existing interests and should aim to further these in some way over the year, perhaps by adding to his knowledge and skills or setting himself a project. By building on what he does, he will often delight in what he is able to accomplish. For some Fire Oxen, their interests can also bring travel opportunities which can add fun and adventure to the year.

The Fire Ox will also very much enjoy the companionship of his close friends this year. There could be some particularly lively occasions to look forward to and the Snake year can have its surprises as well. New activities can also introduce the Fire Ox to new people, with March to early April, June to early August and October often busy and enjoyable months socially.

With all his interests and activities, there will be a lot the Fire Ox wants to do and buy, with often limited means, so he will need to be disciplined in his spending and be wary about making too many impulse purchases. The greater his control, the more satisfying his actual purchases will be.

Over the year, he will be encouraged by the support he receives from those around him, although to benefit fully he does need to ask for help rather than keep thoughts to himself. When considering important matters such as future educational or work choices, he should listen carefully to the advice given and study the information he receives. What he learns can have a bearing on what he decides to do in the future.

Some Fire Oxen will decide to leave education this year and enter the world of work. For those who do, considerable effort and adjustment will be needed. Not only can securing a position be difficult, but when taking on a new role, there will be a new routine to get used to and new duties to learn. These can be daunting times, but if these Fire Oxen show commitment, they can soon become established. Taking advantage of apprenticeship schemes or continuing their education in some way can also help their situation and prospects. While offering many opportunities, the Snake year does require effort. If he is able to give this, the Fire Ox’s actions this year can have important future value.

For Fire Oxen born in 1937, the Year of the Snake can also offer satisfying times. By setting themselves projects and purposeful pursuits, these Fire Oxen will often take considerable pleasure in what they do. For those who enjoy creative activities in particular, this is an ideal year to put their ideas and knowledge to good use. Some may enjoy writing about their experiences, while others will devote time to art, craftwork or gardening. By exploring their thoughts and ideas, they can make this an often personally rewarding time.

The more senior Fire Ox will also be grateful for the support of those around him and if at any time he feels he needs help or advice, he should ask.

As always, he will take considerable pleasure from following the activities of family members over the year and will particularly enjoy the celebrations and news concerning a younger relation. The bond he has with younger family members can mean a great deal.

For all Fire Oxen, whether born in 1937 or 1997, the Snake year can be satisfying, particularly as it will allow them to develop their ideas and personal interests. For the younger Fire Ox, this will also be an important year, not only in terms of furthering his knowledge and abilities but also in bringing out more of his strengths and potential. Overall, a positive and successful year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Make the most of your opportunities. With a willing attitude, you can find important benefits following on. Also, do seek the advice and support of others. With assistance, more can be achieved. This is a fine year for you. Enjoy it and use it well.

The Earth Ox

This can be an interesting year for the Earth Ox and he will have the chance to realize some of the hopes and plans he may have been nurturing for some time. The Snake year can also have its surprises and the Earth Ox should be adaptable and make the most of what arises as it arises.

One area which is encouragingly aspected is his own personal development. Over the years many Earth Oxen will have built up considerable expertise in certain areas and the Snake year will give them an excellent chance to put their knowledge and insights to effective use. This could be through setting themselves an ambitious but satisfying project, furthering their capabilities or meeting and conversing with fellow enthusiasts. Certain interest-related skills can reward the Earth Ox well this year and bring him the respect of others. Earth Oxen whose interests involve creativity and expression will find it worth putting forward any work they produce or entering an appropriate competition. Those who enjoy writing, art, craftwork or photography in particular can find their activities bringing much joy.

However, while the Earth Ox may have some favourite long-term interests, he should also be open to the new. A recreational pursuit he hears about, an activity or course in his area or a sudden idea he has could all be worth exploring. He could be surprised at what can open up for him. This is particularly the case for Earth Oxen who are recently retired and/or would welcome a new challenge. This is a year to keep alert and be open to opportunity.

Although the Earth Ox tends to keep his social life relatively quiet, he will also value the chances he has to go out over the year. Whether meeting friends or going to events that appeal to him, he will often enjoy what he does, and again, if he sees local events that interest him, he should follow these up. Snake years favour both culture and a broadening of the mind. March, late May to early August and October could be especially active times socially.

Earth Oxen who are lonely, have had recent difficulties or feel dispirited should also take the initiative this year and find a new interest or activity to pursue. This could include something they can do in their community or giving time to a charity or cause they support, but whatever they do, action on their part can give them a considerable uplift this year and, in many instances, introduce them to others.

The Earth Ox’s domestic life will also see important developments, with the Earth Ox and those around him involved in significant decision-making. This could relate to work, a change of location, travel or some major projects on the home, but in all cases, time needs to be allowed for discussion and careful consideration of costs and implications. Here the Earth Ox’s thoughtful and reasonable nature will be particularly valued, and important benefits will follow on from many of the decisions made over the year. Some decisions may also be influenced by sudden opportunities. In this respect, Snake years are encouraging and supportive of the Earth Ox.

In addition to advancing plans, there will be several domestic occasions the Earth Ox will especially enjoy. These could include celebrating a family achievement, a wedding, the birth of a grandchild or a special anniversary. There will be celebrations in many an Earth Ox household this year, and for those who move, a possible house-warming party as well.

In view of all the activity of the year, the Earth Ox will, however, have to manage his finances carefully. When involved in major undertakings, he should keep a close watch on costs, and if authorizing any work, obtain quotations and check what is included. The more thorough he is, the better. He should also deal with paperwork promptly and should he have problems or uncertainties, seek advice. This is a year for vigilance and good financial management.

For Earth Oxen in work, the Snake year can bring some important choices. Some Earth Oxen may decide to retire, while others could be involved in a considerable change of duties. Although such change can be daunting, it will often give these Earth Oxen more chance to use specialist skills as well as present an interesting new challenge. Few Earth Oxen will remain untouched by work developments this year. February, April, June and November could see important changes, but throughout the year if the Earth Ox sees an opportunity that appeals to him or has an idea he feels has potential, he should follow it up. As he will find, interesting developments can follow on.

Overall, the Year of the Snake offers considerable possibility for the Earth Ox, and by being active and alert and seizing his opportunities, he can derive much satisfaction from what he does. This is also a good year for personal development. By giving time to his interests and looking to extend his knowledge, the Earth Ox can find important benefits following on. Many Earth Oxen will also make some important decisions this year. Throughout the year, the Earth Ox will be well supported by those around him and benefit from opportunities. A full, interesting and personally rewarding year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Keep alert and be flexible as you set about your activities. New possibilities can arise which would be well worth considering. In addition, investigate new activities and interests, for these can often bring pleasure and personal benefit.

FAMOUS OXEN

Lily Allen, Hans Christian Andersen, Peter Andre, Gemma Arterton, Johann Sebastian Bach, Warren Beatty, Kate Beckinsale, David Blaine, Napoleon Bonaparte, Albert Camus, Jim Carrey, Charlie Chaplin, George Clooney, Natalie Cole, Bill Cosby, Diana, Princess of Wales, Marlene Dietrich, Walt Disney, Patrick Duffy, Jane Fonda, Edward Fox, Michael J. Fox, Peter Gabriel, Elizabeth George, Richard Gere, Ricky Gervais, Julia Gillard, William Hague, Handel, King Harald V of Norway, Adolf Hitler, Dustin Hoffman, Hal Holbrook, Anthony Hopkins, Billy Joel, King Juan Carlos of Spain, John Key, B. B. King, Keira Knightley, Mark Knopfler, Burt Lancaster, Rooney Mara, Kate Moss, Alison Moyet, Eddie Murphy, Jack Nicholson, Leslie Nielsen, Bill Nighy, Barack Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Oscar Peterson, Paula Radcliffe, Robert Redford, Lionel Richie, Wayne Rooney, Tim Roth, Rubens, Meg Ryan, Amanda Seyfried, Jean Sibelius, Bruce Springsteen, Meryl Streep, Lady Thatcher, Alan Titchmarsh, Scott F. Turow, Vincent van Gogh, Zoë Wanamaker, Sigourney Weaver, the Duke of Wellington, Arsène Wenger, W. B. Yeats.