Your Chinese Horoscope for Each and Every Year. Neil Somerville

the key characteristics of Oxen is that they like to proceed in measured ways and this is exactly what many will do this year. Rat years are encouraging for them and they will be able to make good headway.

      At work, many will find their commitment well rewarded this year and, especially for those who have been with their current employer for some time, their experience and in-house knowledge can make them excellent candidates for greater responsibilities. For Oxen on a particular career path, this is a year when they can progress to new levels and extend their knowledge and experience in the process. Oxen like to advance slowly and steadily and in the Rat year their potential will be recognized and encouraged.

      For those looking to broaden their experience by a move elsewhere, or seeking work, determined effort will be required. With openings sometimes limited, it could take time and tenacity to secure a suitable position. Progress needs to be worked for this year, but when it comes, it will give many Oxen a good platform to build on.

      What is achieved now can often have long-term value and Oxen should take advantage of any work-related training courses available to them. Similarly, if they have personal interests they are keen to advance, this is an ideal year to do so. Oxen in education will also find their commitment rewarded and their results (and qualifications) helping their prospects. Indeed, the Rat year can leave a valuable legacy that can be built on in the future, especially in the following Ox year.

      Progress made now can lead to a rise in income and some Oxen will be able to supplement their earnings through putting an interest, skill or idea to profitable use. Their diligence can be well rewarded this year. However, to make the most of any financial upturn, they should manage their budget well. If able to reduce borrowings and/or make savings, they could help their overall position.

      With the long hours many Oxen work, it is important recreational matters do not fall by the wayside this year and that Oxen allow themselves time to rest and unwind. They cannot expect to drive themselves on without respite. Many will find interests that have a social element or allow them to do some exercise can do them a lot of good. Also, in view of their busy lifestyle, they should aim to take a holiday during the year. Again a rest and change of routine can benefit them greatly.

      Although Rat years are generally positive, increased mindfulness is advised in relations with others. Oxen have a strong will, but to prevent possible discord this year they do need to pay close attention to the views of others and, in some instances, be more accommodating. To remain intransigent could lead to problems and undermine rapport. Oxen, do take note.

      Over the year all Oxen should, however, make the most of the social invitations they receive as well as go to special events and other occasions that appeal to them. Going out can add balance to their lifestyle as well as give them the chance to relax, unwind and get to meet people who could become helpful contacts.

      Oxen who find love or are in the early stages of a relationship should let the romance develop in its own way rather than make commitments before they feel ready. This way they will be more certain of their feelings. Also taking time, rather than rushing, suits the Ox psyche.

      Domestically, this promises to be an active year, with many Oxen being especially proud of the achievements of a loved one or reaching a personal milestone. There could be good reason for a family celebration in many an Ox household. Oxen will also be keen to embark on some practical projects about the home. They should, however, be realistic in what is doable at any one time. Short-term projects that can be broken down and tackled in stages will be easier and more satisfying than overambitious undertakings. To help, Oxen should consult those around them, be mindful of their views and involve them in their plans. This will not only lead to more happening but also more being appreciated.

      Overall, Oxen will find their commitment and efforts rewarded this year. Progress can be made and experience gained. Relations with others will need care, attention and good communication. However, if Oxen make the effort, they can gain a lot from the Rat year and emerge from it with knowledge to build upon and opportunities to develop.

      Tips for the Year

      Be receptive to the possibilities that open up for you this year. You may need to be adaptable, but the skills you gain can not only help your present situation but also the longer term. Value your relations with others and take especial note of their views and feelings. Extra care and attention can enhance this good year.

      Ox Fortunes in the Year of the Ox

      Oxen are set to fare well in their own year and enjoy some steady growth and pleasing personal developments. Even so, the year will not be without its obstacles and delays. Results can sometimes be slow in coming through and this is more a time of gradual accumulation than spectacular breakthrough.

      However, one important factor will be the chance Oxen will have to consider their overall situation, think ahead and introduce some changes. If there is some aspect of their life they are not currently satisfied with, now is the time to act. Oxen like to take responsibility, and this is a year for taking responsibility for their present position and future direction. Decisions made now can have far-reaching effects. Oxen can be their own architects this year, designing their life and considering what it is they want to see happen.

      A particularly positive area concerns their relations with others, and for many there will be personal celebrations in store. Affairs of the heart are favourably aspected and some Oxen who start the year unattached will meet someone who is destined to become very special. For those who are alone and perhaps feeling dispirited, this is a year to reach out, to engage in what is happening around them and to meet new people. Positive effort can lead to a change in personal fortunes. For Oxen who are enjoying romance, marriage and/or settling down with someone are possibilities this year. Some Oxen could start a family or see their family increase in numbers. Domestically, these can be fine and often special times.

      Shared interests and family occasions can also bring memorable moments. There may be personal and family news to celebrate as well as the realization of some much-anticipated plans. As ever, Oxen will advise certain family members over key decisions and their wise counsel and solid nature will be much valued.

      With travel well aspected, they should also take advantage of any chances to go away with their loved ones. A holiday and trips to certain attractions can be much appreciated.

      Socially, the Ox year can bring an increase in activity, with Oxen themselves enjoying spending time with their friends and meeting new people. Such is the nature of the year that some new contacts could be especially helpful with certain undertakings. Indeed, throughout the year, Oxen will have many people rooting for them and encouraging them on.

      At work, many will be content to focus on their existing role and use their current skills. Work-wise, Ox years are not always straightforward, though, and certain duties and objectives may be problematic. With support and skill, however, Oxen can still accomplish a great deal and some will have the chance to move to a more specialist role. Steady progress can be made this year.

      Oxen who are unfulfilled where they are or are seeking work should give careful thought to how they see themselves developing. By obtaining advice and following it, many will be successful in securing the chance to establish themselves in a new role. This may require time, but Ox years reward commitment.

      Progress made at work will help financially and many Oxen will be able to go ahead with plans and purchases they have long considered, including travel.

      Personal interests can also be satisfying and Oxen who would welcome new challenges should set time aside to pursue something different. This is an excellent year to follow through ideas, make some changes and enjoy some new interests. Also, Oxen deserve some treats and some ‘me time’.

      In general, the Ox year holds considerable potential for Oxen. On a personal level, there could be celebrations, special times and new love to enjoy. New activities could add interest to the present time, while at work there will be opportunities for Oxen to demonstrate their skills and move ahead, albeit steadily. A full and fulfilling year and on a personal level an often special one too.

      Tips for the Year

      Much can change this year