Your Chinese Horoscope 2010. Neil Somerville

colleagues and make the most of his chances to network. By raising his profile, he can benefit from some fine opportunities. For those seeking work this is also a time to be active and explore openings. The Ox year is very rewarding of effort and the Ox himself, determined and resolute, will be well placed to benefit from it. The key, however, will be his relations with others.

      The Year of the Tiger starts on 14 February and will be a mixed one for the Ox. He likes to plan and be methodical and organized, but in the Tiger year events can happen quickly. The Ox may be concerned about some of the developments and this will not be an easy time for him, but as he has so often shown, he is made of stern stuff and, with care, he can gain a lot from what happens over the year.

      In his work he will need to keep alert. Although he may prefer to concentrate on what needs to be done, he could find he has to contend with delays, increased bureaucracy and sometimes the unhelpful attitude of others. In addition he may have to adapt to new working procedures and personnel. For one so conscientious and so keen to stick to the tried and tested, this can be difficult. However, by putting in the effort, the Ox will find his fortitude will prevail and he may well emerge with much to his credit. This can include headway made under difficult conditions, personal success, skills mastered or new responsibilities secured. The going will sometimes be tough, but the Ox is a doer and survivor and over the year he will have a good chance to demonstrate his strengths.

      Although many Oxen will remain with their present employer, they will often have the chance to vary their role and in the process learn about other aspects of their work. However, for those eager to make a change, the Tiger year can be an important one. Securing a new position will not be easy, but by widening their options, seeking advice and being prepared to adapt and learn, they will find their persistence paying off, with many being offered an interesting position with the potential for future development. March, April, September and November could see some good opportunities. Work-wise, this is, though, a year when all Oxen will need to keep their wits about them and adapt to situations as they arise.

      The Ox will also need to be his usual cautious self when dealing with money matters. Events can happen quickly this year and bring unexpected costs. These could include repairing or replacing items, increased accommodation costs or debts that need paying. In 2010 the Ox will need to keep vigilant, check the terms and implications of any major purchase or transaction and use his money prudently. Making early provision for his outgoings will help. Money-wise, this is a year for good planning and the avoidance of risk.

      A more satisfying part of the year will concern the Ox’s personal interests and although he will have many demands on his time, it is important he gives himself the chance to enjoy recreational pursuits. These can be particularly good ways for him to relax and take his mind off other pressures. Some interests can also have pleasing social benefits and throughout this busy year the Ox owes it to himself to preserve time for activities that bring him pleasure.

      He will also very much enjoy aspects of his home life, especially shared activities and interests. When major purchases or accommodation decisions need to be made, considering options jointly will lead to better choices that can be appreciated by all. In addition, family treats and trips out as well as a possible holiday can do the Ox and his loved ones good as well as provide the opportunity to unwind.

      However, while the Tiger year can bring some pleasing times, it is still one for care. Over the year the Ox does need to listen closely to his loved ones, watch his sometimes independent tendencies and, if tired or under pressure, try not to take his irritation out on others. Without care, disagreements could flare up and this is something all Oxen need to be wary of. When experiencing any problems or pressures, they will find that being open and forthcoming will give others more chance to help and understand.

      The Ox will also need to tread carefully in social situations, as an inadvertent comment or lapse could cause problems. Those Oxen enjoying romance need to be particularly aware and attentive. However, despite the cautionary aspects, the Ox will thoroughly enjoy many social occasions and his socializing can do him a lot of good. March, April, June and August could see the most social activity.

      The main advice for the Ox this year is to proceed carefully. This is a time of volatility and although the Ox prefers to follow carefully laid plans, he will need to adapt and make the best of situations as they arise. During the year he will face new challenges, but in the process he will learn a lot, discover new strengths and possibly take up new interests as well as take satisfaction in the progress he makes.

       The Metal Ox

      The element of Metal gives the Ox added determination. Always keen to make the most of himself, the Metal Ox sets about his activities with diligence and commitment. While he will continue to do so in 2010, the Tiger year may be a challenging one for him. Problems, delays and obstacles may all affect his plans, and parts of the year are likely to be frustrating. However, opportunities and interesting choices can follow on from the events that take place.

      Throughout the year the Metal Ox will need to keep alert to all that is going on around him. This is no time for him to be so immersed in his own activities that he is oblivious to the views of others. To prevent problems, he needs to be aware and show flexibility.

      This particularly applies to his work situation. Although many Metal Oxen will be satisfied with their present position and happy to continue with their duties, over the year they will feel the effects of change, whether through the introduction of new procedures or alterations to their existing role. The Metal Ox will often be concerned about the implications and pace of what happens, but will be faced with moving with the times and making the best of his situation. Nevertheless, some could find the changes give them the chance to further their experience and widen their role. In addition, others will often look to the Metal Ox for advice, and by assisting and doing what he can, he can improve his reputation. While this can sometimes be a difficult and frustrating year for him, there will still be scope to make progress and to use his considerable experience to good effect.

      For Metal Oxen who are keen to change their employer, as well as those seeking work, the Tiger year can work in curious ways. Openings will be limited and these Metal Oxen must not be too restrictive in the type of position they pursue. However, an opportunity could arise in an unexpected manner, possibly through the Metal Ox seeing an advert by chance, making a tentative enquiry or being alerted to a possible opening by a colleague or friend. With the aspects as they are, opportunities can come along at almost any time, but late February to April, September and November could be important months.

      Another important factor in how the Metal Ox fares will be his attitude towards others. He does possess an independent streak, but in work situations he does need to liaise with others and communicate readily. This is not a year when he can afford to be isolated or too removed from what is happening.

      This advice also applies to his personal interests. By meeting other enthusiasts, whether by attending events and gatherings or joining a local group, he could find himself being helped and encouraged. Also, by preserving time for his interests, he will be helping to keep his lifestyle in balance.

      The Metal Ox would also do well to give some consideration to his well-being and, especially if sedentary for much of the day, seek advice on appropriate exercise. If he is reliant on convenience food, he could find that a more balanced diet would boost his energy levels. To keep himself on good form, he would find it well worth giving some attention to his current way of life.

      He should also try to go away for a break during the year. The rest and change of scene can do him a lot of good and even if he is not able to travel too far, he will appreciate the chance to see places that are new to him. If he is able to combine a holiday with an interest or event, this can bring extra meaning to his time away.

      This will be a busy year as far as his domestic life is concerned and good co-operation and communication will be needed between family members. Throughout the year it is also important that the Metal Ox is open and prepared to share any pressures or concerns he may have. Not only can this lead to more offers of support, but it can also help rapport and understanding. Should any tensions or differences of opinion arise, taking the time