Читать книгу Your Chinese Horoscope 2014: What the year of the horse holds in store for you - Neil Somerville, Neil Somerville - Страница 21

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.