Читать книгу Your Chinese Horoscope 2012: What the year of the dragon holds in store for you - Neil Somerville, Neil Somerville - Страница 13

THE PERSONALITY OF THE OX

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 rather 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 in 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, those 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 in order 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 2012

The Year of the Rabbit (3 February 2011–22 January 2012) will have been a reasonable one for the Ox and a lot is set to happen in the closing months.

In his work the Ox could face new pressures and an increasing workload, but with commitment and dedication he will not only impress but also achieve some creditable results. For some Oxen, including those seeking work, October and early November could see openings worth pursuing.

One of the more favourable aspects of the Rabbit year concerns the Ox’s relations with others and in the remaining months he should make the most of his opportunities to meet others. In his work, the contacts he makes could be helpful, while on a personal level he will find himself in demand, with friends to see, events to attend and, for unattached Oxen, affairs of the heart adding something special to this part of the year. September could be interesting socially, as could the weeks approaching and just after Christmas.

In his home life the Ox will continue to do a lot for others and will be kept fully occupied, whether giving advice and assistance, making arrangements or carrying out home maintenance projects. Busy though the last few months of the year may be, he will delight in how certain plans proceed as well as in the love and gratitude shown him by others. On a personal level, the Rabbit year can often be a special and rewarding time for the Ox.

With so much domestic and social activity, as well as the purchases the Ox will want to make in the last months of the year, he will, however, need to keep a close watch on spending. He should also avoid risks and take care if lending to another person. Without a proper agreement, problems could follow. Oxen, be warned.

However, the Year of the Rabbit will have given the Ox the chance to use his talents in many ways and will leave him with some satisfying achievements to his credit.

The Year of the Dragon starts on 23 January and will be a variable one for the Ox. The Ox likes to follow carefully laid plans and could feel uncomfortable with the pace and spontaneous nature of the Dragon year. It is one which will test his patience but will nevertheless give him valuable new experience.

In his work the Ox should focus on his responsibilities but also remain aware of what is going on around him. Sometimes new initiatives could change his role and he will need to adapt. Also, while he is likely to have misgivings about some of the new developments, he should be wary of being too obtuse. To appear inflexible or intransigent could be to his detriment. For many Oxen, whatever their views, the best policy in the Dragon year will be to work hard and keep their heads down.

However, while some parts of the year will be demanding, the Ox can still derive much value from it. Changes in his role will often give him the chance to broaden his experience and prove himself in another capacity. By rising to the challenge and using this year to further his skills, he will be both helping his current situation and widening his scope for the future.

Many Oxen will remain with their present employer this year and build on their experience, but for those keen on making a change or looking for work, the Dragon year can bring interesting developments. Although their quest may not be easy, by considering a wide range of positions, many could secure a job in a different capacity that will prove an interesting challenge. March, May, August and November could see encouraging developments, but the Dragon year will be fast-moving throughout, with opportunities arising quickly and sometimes taking the Ox by surprise.

Financially, with his existing commitments, some repairs that may be needed and all the other plans he will want to carry out, the Ox may find his spending easily mounting up. Whenever possible, he should set funds aside for specific requirements and watch his outgoings. Fortunately his disciplined nature will help, but the better control he has over his finances, the better he will fare.

One particular characteristic of the Dragon year is the niggles and petty irritations it can bring. These can range from annoying delays and muddles over transactions to excessive bureaucracy concerning benefits, payments or some other important matter. Some of what occurs this year could exasperate the Ox, and to help minimize these more awkward aspects, he should pay special attention to important correspondence and keep paperwork and receipts carefully. By being thorough, he will find some problems can be averted or at least more easily dealt with when they arise.

Many Oxen will be leading busy and sometimes pressured lifestyles this year and in view of this it is also important that the Ox does not neglect his own well-being. To skimp on exercise or a healthy diet could leave him lacking his usual energy and prone to minor ailments.

In this busy year he should also allow time for his interests and recreational pursuits. No matter what he may enjoy doing in his spare time – something practical, sporting, creative or even educational – some regular ‘me time’ will do him good as well as bring him pleasure.

In addition he will be grateful for the support of his friends and should never forget that they will be glad to assist if called upon to do so. While the Ox can be a somewhat private individual, he should also take up the social invitations he receives as well as go to any events that appeal to him. By doing so, he may meet some helpful people who in time can become loyal friends. April, May, July and September are likely to see the most social opportunities.

The Ox’s home life will keep him busy during the year and there will need to be good co-operation and some flexibility as routines and work schedules change. Here the Ox’s methodical nature will help, particularly in thinking adjustments through and giving advice as needed. However, while the year will bring its pressures, there will also be pleasures. These may include success that comes after considerable effort and good news that the Ox will be keen to share. Domestically and personally, the Dragon year will contain some richly rewarding times.

Nevertheless, it can also highlight an Ox weakness: when delays occur or problems arise, he is not slow to vent his feelings. In view of the irritations that are likely this year, he should try to show greater patience as well as watch his temper.

Overall, although the Ox may not always feel comfortable with the year’s often heady pace, by concentrating on what he has to do and showing a willingness to adjust to new developments he can enjoy some notable achievements, add to his circle of friends and gain valuable new experience. And what he does this year can be taken further in 2013, the Year of the Snake, which is a particularly good one for him.

The Metal Ox

The Metal Ox has a great many strengths. He is determined, persistent and takes his responsibilities seriously. He is very much a no-nonsense sort and rather than delay or procrastinate, he simply likes to get on with things. However, despite his noble intentions, he could find the Dragon year frustrating. Some of his plans and hopes could be difficult to realize and he could also have a few problems to deal with. This may not be the smoothest of years for him, but despite its vexations, the Metal Ox is made of strong stuff and will not only have the chance to show his strengths but also find that out of difficulty new possibilities can arise.

In his work he is likely to see considerable change. Not only may he be given different objectives but also see his role expanded in new ways. Many Metal Oxen could be faced with adapting to new working practices and could be concerned about some of the developments that take place and the speed with which they are introduced.

However, while the Metal Ox may find parts of the year demanding, some of the tasks and objectives he is given will allow him to gain experience in new areas and prove himself in a different capacity. For the many Metal Oxen who decide to remain with their present employer this year, the experience they gain can be an important stepping-stone to future progress.

For those intent on change or seeking work, the Dragon year can open up some interesting possibilities. Securing a position will not be easy, but by considering different ways in which they could use their skills, obtaining advice and looking at training possibilities, quite a few Metal Oxen will gain a new position that will be a base from which they can later progress. And, with their prospects greatly improved next year, any additional skills they can gain can be to their benefit in the near future. March, May, August to mid-September and November could see particularly encouraging developments.

Another important feature of the year will be personal development, and many Metal Oxen will decide to enrol on courses or start a study programme, perhaps to gain an additional qualification. Finding time for this may sometimes be difficult, but what the Metal Ox is able to achieve can be a valuable legacy of the year.

Throughout the year the Metal Ox should also be open to opportunities. Although he will have plans and hopes for 2012, he should not regard these as set in stone. Sometimes new ideas will arise or situations change, and by being flexible he will stand more chance of benefiting. During the Dragon year the winds of change and chance blow strongly.

One area which could see sudden developments is travel. While the Metal Ox may prefer to plan ahead, this year he may well have the chance to go away at short notice. There could also be some particularly interesting travel possibilities towards the end of 2012 and early in 2013.

The Metal Ox should, however, keep watch over his spending throughout the year. Without care, he could find his outgoings creeping up. This is a time for good financial management. In addition the Metal Ox needs to pay attention to tax and benefit matters as well as any other important documents he may receive. Delay or missed details could be to his disadvantage. Metal Oxen, take note, and do be thorough.

Although, with all his various activities, the Metal Ox will be kept busy over the year, he should also make sure that his social life is not neglected. By keeping in regular contact with his friends he will not only benefit from their support but also enjoy the times spent together. His work and interests can also introduce him to new people, and Metal Oxen who are alone and would welcome more contact with others will find that taking up invitations and going to events in their area can lead to some significant new friendships being made. Mid-March to the end of May, July and September could see the most social activity.

In the Metal Ox’s home life, this will be a busy year, with plans and routines subject to change. Adjustments will need to be made, but with co-operation, new patterns can quickly become established. Some Metal Oxen could also see family members leave home, particularly as children start university or take a new job, and here the Metal Ox’s attentive nature can help others through what can be a daunting stage in their life.

With his practical nature, the Metal Ox will often have projects he will be keen to carry out over the year, but again this is a time for flexibility. Some plans may have to be put back or altered to fit in with other arrangements, but in some cases the delay could be a blessing in disguise as better alternatives arise.

In general, the Year of the Dragon may not be the smoothest of years for the Metal Ox. However, by adapting to the situations in which he finds himself and doing his best, he can greatly add to his experience, and his persistence, discipline and personal qualities can lead to both present and future achievements. A challenging but significant year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Look to develop your skills and knowledge. Also, be adaptable as situations change and opportunities arise. What opens up now can be to your long-term advantage.

The Water Ox

This will be a variable year for the Water Ox. Progress will not be easy and parts of the year frustrating. However, while the Dragon year will bring its challenges, it will also have very definite benefits. The effort the Water Ox can put in and the skills he can show will give him the experience necessary for future success. In many ways this is a year of preparation for the better times ahead, especially next year.

At work the Water Ox will often find his level of responsibility changing, with increased targets and objectives to meet. Not only can this add to his workload, but delays can occur, bureaucracy take time and people not be as co-operative or efficient as the Water Ox would like. At times he may be exasperated, but he should remain focused and do his best. His application and commitment will be noticed, and when targets are met and certain results achieved, the success will be all the more deserved.

Another important factor of the year is that by rising to the challenge, the Water Ox will be adding to his experience and having the chance to demonstrate a wide range of skills. This will be to his benefit when opportunities arise in the future or he looks to move on.

For those Water Oxen who feel the time is now right for change, March, May, August and November could bring some interesting possibilities, but opportunities do need to be taken quickly.

For Water Oxen seeking work, there can be important developments in store. Obtaining a new position will not be easy, but by considering the different ways in which they could use their experience and making a special effort with their applications, these Water Oxen will find doors opening for them. Results this year will come from hard work and giving that little bit extra, but with his prospects much improved next year, the experience the Water Ox gains now can be instrumental in his future progress.

Financially, with personal commitments, accommodation plans and travel costs, the Water Ox will have many demands on his resources and will need to keep a close watch on spending and budget ahead. If he does not do so already, keeping a set of accounts could be helpful. Also, if he takes on any new commitment or enters into an agreement, he should check the terms and obligations and keep any paperwork and guarantees safely. This is no year for risk or oversight.

In view of the busy nature of the year it is also important that the Water Ox keeps his lifestyle in balance and sets aside some time for relaxation and exercise. With this being an innovative time, should a fitness discipline, activity or recreational pursuit be introduced that appeals to him, he should follow it up. What he starts this year can bring him a great deal of pleasure and possible benefit both now and in the future.

He should also make sure he keeps in regular contact with his friends. If meeting up is not always possible, a phone call or e-mail could be a good way to stay in touch. Contact with others can do the Water Ox a lot of good over the year, especially as it will give him the chance to discuss current activities and benefit from advice. April, May, July, September and early 2013 could see some good social opportunities.

Domestically, the Water Ox will again see a lot of activity this year. He will give considerable help to both younger and more senior relatives and in addition will do much to ensure the smooth running of domestic life. While busy, this will often be very rewarding, and there could be a notable personal or family occasion to enjoy later on in the year.

Overall, the Year of the Dragon will ask a lot of the Water Ox and will not always be easy or straightforward. However, one of the Water Ox’s strengths is his conscientious nature, and by doing his best and rising to the challenge, he can gain valuable experience and demonstrate his redoubtable qualities. The Dragon year may test him, but it will pave the way for some significant developments, particularly in the following Year of the Snake. What is achieved this year should not be underestimated, for its benefits can be considerable.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Make full use of any chances to further your experience and gain new skills. Also, keep your lifestyle in balance and preserve time for your personal interests, friends and loved ones. These are important and special parts of your life. Be sure to treasure them.

The Wood Ox

The Wood Ox is both conscientious and ambitious. He is not one for fuss and sets about his activities in a quiet and methodical way. And his approach and style serve him well, allowing him to make steady progress. In 2012 he will continue to make headway, but this will not be without considerable effort on his part. The Dragon year can be challenging and the Wood Ox will not always be comfortable with the developments it brings. However, amid the pressures, there will be some special and personally significant times to enjoy.

At work, many Wood Oxen will have established themselves in a company or organization and will not only have built up expertise in their present role but also made good contacts and friends. Over the year many will have the chance to build on this and be offered other responsibilities. However, while this represents progress, there could be a lot to learn and some adjustments to make, and the shift in role may sometimes be more difficult than the Wood Ox anticipated. Parts of the year can be exacting, but the Wood Ox is never one to shrink from a challenge and with time and patience will not only prove himself in a new capacity but will also find the experience helpful for the future. The Dragon year may not be easy but it can be instructive, and often significant in the longer term.

For Wood Oxen who decide the time has come for a change, as well as those seeking work, events can move in curious ways. Obtaining a new position may be difficult, but by keeping alert, making enquiries and talking to contacts and those in a position to advise, the Wood Ox will find some interesting possibilities emerging. Sometimes these could be in an area or industry that is unfamiliar to him, but he will welcome the chance to do something different. Again any new role can be daunting, with a lot to learn, but what is achieved this year can lead to more possibilities opening up in the future.

Another factor in the Wood Ox’s favour will be the opportunities he will have to work with new colleagues. Many will respond well to his quiet, conscientious nature and senior staff will be keen to support him, including putting him forward for training. March, May to early June, August and November could see some important developments.

The progress the Wood Ox makes at work can lead to a rise in income, but throughout the year money matters will need care. The Wood Ox should keep a close watch on spending and be vigilant when dealing with important paperwork or making new commitments. Financially, this is a year to be alert and thorough, and if anything concerns him at any time, the Wood Ox should seek clarification and advice.

A particular feature of the Dragon year is its sudden opportunities, and there could be chances for the Wood Ox to travel at short notice, perhaps to take a break or visit others. His interests can keep him active, too, and if he has the chance to attend events, shows and concerts, again perhaps at short notice, he should try to go. Admittedly the Wood Ox does like to plan ahead, but by being open to the more spontaneous nature of the year he can get to do some interesting and fun things.

Once again he will value his close circle of friends over the year, and changes in his work and the various activities he pursues can also bring him into contact with others and result in some important new friendships being made. April, May, July, September and the start of 2013 could see the most social activity and, for the unattached, affairs of the heart are promising. Here again the Dragon year can bring sudden developments, and although the Wood Ox may prefer to take his time, for a few, finding love can be sudden and glorious.

The Wood Ox’s home life will also see a lot happen this year. There will be important decisions to be made, some upheaval as plans take shape and also times of personal and family celebration. While a lot will work out favourably, there will be fraught moments when plans are disrupted or delayed (patience is not always a Wood Ox strong point!) and pressures mount. The Wood Ox should accept these as best he can and resolve to work around them. The year will contain its annoyances, but these should not be allowed to get out of proportion or undermine what can be a personally rewarding time.

Overall, the Year of the Dragon can be a demanding one for the Wood Ox, but by rising to its challenges and doing his best, he will learn a lot, develop new strengths and win the respect of many. Headway made now can also have considerable bearing on his future progress. And his relations with others can be strong and meaningful, with many positive developments to enjoy.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Being ambitious, you realize there are times when you need to push yourself forward and take on new and sometimes uncomfortable challenges. This is such a year. Make the most of your chances to extend your skills, as you can do your prospects a lot of good. Also, consult others and listen closely to their advice. The support you receive can be significant and your good relations with others can help you in many ways.

The Fire Ox

The Fire Ox can accomplish a lot this year, but it will require considerable effort. Progress will not be easy or automatic, but with persistence and hard work, important headway can be made.

For the Fire Ox born in 1997 there is a Chinese proverb that it could be helpful to keep in mind this year: ‘Study hard when you are young or you’ll regret it when you are old.’ In the Dragon year the young Fire Ox should make every effort with his studying. This is his opportunity to prepare himself for what lies ahead. While the world of work and other responsibilities may be several years away, what he can learn now can bear important fruit later. This is no time to waste.

Also, while he will have his preferred subject areas, the Fire Ox should not be discouraged if certain pieces of work do not get the marks he was hoping for. This will give him the chance to recognize what he did wrong and avoid this in future. For some, it can also be a wake-up call that more effort is required. The Dragon year can be demanding, but it is by being stretched and challenged that the young Fire Ox will learn more.

If, however, at any time he is struggling with a certain subject, it is important that he seeks guidance. Doing nothing can only compound his anxiety and there are many around him who will be only too willing to help.

As the Fire Ox sets about his various activities, he will find new strengths emerging and should consider how he can best build on these. Again, those around can be encouraging and if the Fire Ox is open to instruction and advice, some interesting possibilities can emerge. For the more musical Fire Ox (and many Oxen do have good musical skills), there could be the chance to learn an instrument or join a school band or orchestra, while for the sporting, extra tuition could be made available. Whatever his interests, with effort and willingness the young Fire Ox can gain a lot from the year.

He will also value his close circle of friends and the support they offer can be important. Over the year his interests will bring him into contact with others, too, and he will enjoy a good understanding with many.

In his home life the Fire Ox will need to be forthcoming and willing to help as required. The emphasis of the Dragon year is on effort and willingness, and whether in his home life, school work or interests, commitment will enable the Fire Ox to get the most out of it and enhance his prospects for the future.

For Fire Oxen born in 1937, this will be an interesting but sometimes niggling year. The Fire Ox is a redoubtable character and has a firm will and resolve. Much of the year will go well for him, but it will not be without its irritations. Whether dealing with delay, bureaucracy or misunderstandings, there will be occasions which will test the Fire Ox’s patience. However, while he may be annoyed, he needs to be careful not to exacerbate difficult situations but focus on their resolution. In particular, he should check facts, get advice and consider the best way forward. With determination and resourcefulness, the more awkward aspects of the year can be defused or averted, but throughout the year the Fire Ox does need to be on his mettle.

Nevertheless, there will be other aspects of the Dragon year that the Fire Ox will particularly value, including spending time with his family and enjoying the often good bond he has with younger relations. In addition he will often be keen to make some purchases to improve his home, and by considering his options carefully and talking his ideas over with those around him, he will be pleased with his choices, even if some undertakings do take longer than envisaged.

The Fire Ox will also find long-held interests bringing him particular pleasure and will enjoy following through certain ideas, contacting other enthusiasts or attending interest-related events. Gardening (including indoor gardening) will delight many Fire Oxen and such interests can do the Fire Ox a lot of good in this sometimes tricky year.

With the variable aspects, he will, though, need to be vigilant when dealing with finance and important paperwork. Problems can arise if certain procedures are not followed. Fire Oxen, take note. Be careful and thorough and do seek advice if necessary.

In general, the Year of the Dragon will not be the easiest for the Fire Ox. He will need to be careful not to exacerbate problems with moments of stubbornness or intransigence. Awareness, patience and some flexibility will be required. But for both the younger and more senior Fire Ox, the year will bring opportunities to enjoy personal interests and develop skills. And family and friends will be supportive and effort well rewarded.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Be prepared to work hard. Although results may sometimes be slow in coming, your efforts and tenacity will prevail and can benefit you in many ways, both now and in the future.

The Earth Ox

The Earth Ox is a realist. He has good judgement and a talent for gauging situations, and these abilities will serve him well this year. This may not be the easiest of years for him, but he can gain a lot from it as well as enjoy some deserving successes.

For those Earth Oxen in work the Dragon year can be demanding. Many will see changes being introduced which will not only impact on their role but also require considerable adjustment. The Earth Ox may have misgivings about what is happening, but he will find it best to concentrate on his duties and keep a relatively low profile. This is not a time to rock the boat or be inflexible.

However, while parts of the year will be challenging, the Earth Ox will still have the chance to put his experience to good use. His judgement can be a tremendous asset this year and colleagues will often recognize and value his contribution.

The majority of Earth Oxen will remain in their current position over the year and adapt as required. However, for those seeking a new role, the Dragon year can bring some interesting developments. Securing a new position will not be easy, but the Earth Ox is persistent and by keeping alert and considering a range of possibilities may well secure a position that gives him the chance to do something very different. This may be temporary, however, and this is a year when the Earth Ox will need to be adaptable. March, May, August and November could see some interesting work developments, but events move quickly in the Dragon year and whenever the Earth Ox sees a vacancy that appeals to him, he should be swift in following it up.

There will also be some Earth Oxen who choose to retire or reduce their working commitments over the year and again this will be a time of change and personal adjustment.

Whatever his situation, the Earth Ox will need to be careful when dealing with paperwork and financial matters this year. He does need to give these his full attention and seek advice on anything that concerns him. Also when considering large purchases or entering into agreements, he should check the terms and conditions and that his requirements are being met. Again, without sufficient attention, problems can ensue. This is very much a year for being vigilant and aware.

If possible, however, the Earth Ox should try to make provision for a holiday. With all that he does and the pressures he is likely to have to cope with in the Dragon year, a change of scene can do him a lot of good. There may be the chance to go away at short notice and if a travel offer or invitation appeals to him, the Earth Ox should follow it up.

Another rewarding aspect of the year concerns the Earth Ox’s personal interests. Over the year many Earth Oxen will be keen to take certain interests further, possibly by going on courses or setting themselves a particular project. By allowing themselves the time to do this, they can find their efforts particularly rewarding. Any Earth Oxen who feel unfulfilled over the year would do well to consider activities they could enjoy and new interests they could start. By doing something purposeful, they could transform their situation.

As with most Oxen, the Earth Ox can have a quiet and reserved nature, but over the year he should make the most of his social opportunities as well as keep in contact with his friends. This is no year to distance himself from what is going on or to keep himself to himself. Friends can be particularly supportive and encouraging and can offer valuable advice on important decisions.

In addition some Earth Oxen will give thought to their well-being over the year and those who join an exercise class or decide to keep fit in other ways will find that a great deal of fun and mutual support can be had. In the Dragon year the Earth Ox’s social life can bring him a great deal of pleasure.

His home life will also see much activity, and with the changes and pressures he may be experiencing in his work situation, along with the important decisions others may be facing, there will need to be good liaison and co-operation in his household. The more discussion and awareness there is, the better for all. However, while home life will often be busy, it will also mean a great deal to the Earth Ox, particularly as plans are realized (even if they take longer than anticipated) and some notable family occasions enjoyed. This is very much a year favouring communication, joint effort and shared decision-making.

Overall, the Year of the Dragon can be a demanding one for the Earth Ox and throughout he will need to remain aware, thorough, careful and adaptable. However, while there will be pressures, personal interests can be especially satisfying and the Earth Ox will value the support of others.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Although some of the developments of the year may concern you or bring increased pressure, you can learn a lot from them. Be your resourceful self and rise to the challenge. Considerable benefits can follow on from what you are able to accomplish this year.

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, Kate Moss, Alison Moyet, Eddie Murphy, Jack Nicholson, Leslie Nielsen, 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.

26 JANUARY 1914 13 FEBRUARY 1915 Wood Tiger

13 FEBRUARY 1926 1 FEBRUARY 1927 Fire Tiger

31 JANUARY 1938 18 FEBRUARY 1939 Earth Tiger

17 FEBRUARY 1950 5 FEBRUARY 1951 Metal Tiger

5 FEBRUARY 1962 24 JANUARY 1963 Water Tiger

23 JANUARY 1974 10 FEBRUARY 1975 Wood Tiger

9 FEBRUARY 1986 28 JANUARY 1987 Fire Tiger

28 JANUARY 1998 15 FEBRUARY 1999 Earth Tiger

14 FEBRUARY 2010 2 FEBRUARY 2011 Metal Tiger