The Year of the Dragon

Chinese New Year starts on 10th February 2024 as the resilient Rabbit passes the baton to the dramatic Dragon.

Brave, benevolent and busy, Dragon years are packed full of dramatic activity making them exceptionally memorable.  The Chinese believe this to be the year of good fortune and luck.  Many will consider moving house, getting married, having their first baby or making some other significant life change at this time. Tradition suggests it is also a good year to start a business.

 

As the only mythological creature in the Chinese Astrological cycle, stories, rumors and folklore surround the Dragon adding intrigue to its already vast presence. In 2000, the millennium bug had people in fear that life would be changed forever as a result of a technological error; in 2012, the Mayan calendar ended which had people fearing for the end of the world.  2024 is the year of disclosure where secrets are revealed and people are challenged to question their world view.  Even before it has started, people sense the arrival of revolutionary change, which inspires awe although, some interpret this as fear.

 

Be ready for some action, as the Dragon creates all manner of fun, placing it squarely in your way until you’ve worked your way out of that part of the labyrinth. Then it’s on to the next level. As the valiant Dragon influences everyone to be more courageous, people tend to take on a lot more than they would otherwise.  It’s not uncommon for people to get second or even third jobs.  Money is not scarce and everyone is wearing their ego right next to their heart on their sleeve.

 

Meeker signs really benefit from the infusion of fire power the Dragon lends, however, tougher signs such as the Ox, Snake and Dog may have to err on the side of caution as this extra thrust can sometimes fling them way past the boundary lines into precarious situations.  It’s wise to maintain a healthy perspective without developing an exaggerated sense of self, which is akin to these regal monsters.

 

The Rat year offers vision, the Ox year provides intense labor to lay the foundations, the Tiger year markets the product, the Rabbit year makes wise adjustments, the Dragon year is the time to consider diversifying or maybe even a complete change in direction.  Do not forget, Dragon years are revolutionary.

 

Opportunities are everywhere but one must be prepared to put in the work.  The Dragon rewards hard graft magnanimously and you may be surprised at what gifts you get with your pay packet.  Make use of the Dragon’s influence and clout as more can be achieved in this one year than in the following three combined.  It is the year where rags can become riches.  But beware, all events are magnified, the ups as well as the downs.

 

While the Dragon is the royal sign, in general society, even if they are not in the main seat of power, they commonly hold the people’s trust, so often, the people will follow the Dragon and not whoever is in power.  Secrets are revealed, the elites or so-called establishment are challenged as the Dragon, with it social clout turns up with its followers in tow to demand egalitarian changes.  Also, Dragon years tend to be hotter than normal.  The hottest year on record was 1976, a fire Dragon year.

 

Like the giant grandiose creature that the Dragon is, its year will be filled with extravagance, excitement and developmental challenges pushing all to their limits and ensuring that they take their responsibilities seriously. Expect lots of laughter, fun and sparkling entertainment.  This reptilian beast is a host of the finest kind who lives up to its larger than life image.   The Royal Dragon toys with everyone but if you keep your sense of humor, you will be rewarded generously.  It is a year to arrive with a plan, be prepared to improvise when the unexpected strikes and savor every joyful moment.

 

This is the Year of the Dragon.

 

 

Click on your sign for your prediction for 2024

 

Rat

Ox

Tiger

Rabbit

Dragon

Snake

Horse

Sheep

Monkey

Rooster

Dog

Boar/Pig

The New Chinese Year starts on 1st February 2022.

Fiery, wild and dramatic, the year of the Tiger promises excitement by the bucket load. Never content with the quiet life, the Tiger takes action to ensure life is full of glitter and gold, even if it means rocking the boat to get it.  Emerging from the quiet and conservative Ox year, the shift to the Tiger influence can come as a bit of shock.

Rebellious, powerful and proud, the Tiger likes to have things his way and sets out to make it so. However, he makes impulsive decisions based upon whims or immediate desires rather than long-term needs so can find themselves at a loss once the short-term goal is reached.   If you choose to be complacent in this way in this year,  you may come up against unnecessary obstacles, find you have wasted a lot of time and most importantly, have missed important opportunities.  The Tiger and drama go hand in hand.  Rarely will you find yourself bored in a Tiger year; you will be too busy trying to fix the current situation you are embroiled in.

Although the Tiger is a high achiever and secretly, a perfectionist, the overt priority is to have fun.  And this will be a fun year.  Lending everyone magnetic charm and charisma, an environment for creative exploration is formed.  How creative you want to be and in which area of your life is up to you.  Relationships can be created and destroyed easily, though, in this environment; with this sexy Tiger influence, staying grounded isn’t easy, so if you can think through the potential consequences of any significant action before actually acting, you will be wiser than most.

Traditionally, Tiger years are seen as turbulent and tumultuous where disagreements, rash behavior and collisions occur.   Politically, the atmosphere is charged and many secrets are uncovered that cause uproar.  Even the weather tends to be dramatic; storms and tornados are common.

On the other side of the coin, it is a year of innovation.  The Tiger is bold enough to tread territory others are not.  New controversial ideas are discussed and audacious decisions can be made to improve the lives of many especially those who have stagnated.  In Tiger years, change is the only constant.

The Rat year offers vision, the Ox year provides intense labor to lay the foundations, the Tiger year lends Passionate Creativity; it is time to market and sell the product.

Keep your own counsel and use the Tiger’s self-assurance to go it alone rather than joining with others in business ventures.  This excess of energy can also be utilized to reinvigorate seemingly lost causes or failing industries.  An infusion of Tiger energy is exactly what is required to increase productivity and boost general confidence.  A lot can be achieved in a short space of time.

The Tiger likes to play and ultimately doesn’t take life too seriously; if you keep this attitude too, the Tiger year could be an indulgent party.  Just remember that excessive behaviour causes consequences that must be dealt with at some time.

This is the Year of the Tiger.

 

Click on your Chinese sign below for your free 2022 Prediction.  Please share if you are so inclined.

Rule of the cosmos changes hands on the 12th February 2021 when the creative and entrepreneurial Rat presence is replaced by the comforting protection of the paternal Ox.

Modest, hard-working and surprisingly generous, the next twelve months could present significant rewards to those who go beyond the call of their duty to serve others. Being the strong and silent type, the Ox does not like to reveal his feelings about anyone he holds in high regard, so if you receive a promotion or greater responsibility along with an increased pay packet, read between the lines. It is commonly known that the Ox will not part with his pennies unless he feels someone has earned it.

Short cuts are not advisable in an Ox year. Everything will be expected to be done meticulously by the book even though this means taking the long way round. Daddy Ox just wants to make sure you get the benefit of the experience. As far as he’s concerned, there is no substitute for lessons learnt on the hard road which will keep you in good stead later on in your life.

The projects started last year in the instigating phase of the Rat may need a strong infusion of persistent hard work and prudent resource management to see them through to the next level. That is where the Ox takes over. The vision has been decided, now the Ox provides intense labour without complaint.

Looking at famous people born under the Ox sign, you will notice that there are many powerful personalities, many who proved themselves to be one-person political forces to be reckoned with, (Please go to the Ox page for a list.) This trait of self-empowerment will be shared with all. In a many contexts, this could lead to arguments, misunderstandings and confrontations as meeker signs will be lent the Ox’s self confidence so finally have the audacity to say what they really think.

There tends to be something inescapably autocratic about the way Ox signs like to work and this influence can also be felt in their years. Let’s not forget most of the dictators we have seen in our recent past have come from this sign as they are stern, dominant and powerful. It is common for them to be in leadership positions as these traits have been historically what was deemed to be required. However, that seems to be shifting so this type of leadership is losing its grasp. As a result, this Ox year may push those in traditional leadership positions to become increasingly more tyrannical, but the common people, aided by the Ox’s earthy confidence will be more likely to stand up against them.

Adolf Hitler, Sadaam Hussein, Napoleon, Pol Pot and even Machiavelli are All Ox signs. (Incidentally, all five are Ox-Taurus.) But those that openly oppose established institutions also belong to the Ox sign, people such as Princess Diana who stood up to the royal family, Malala Yusef who stood up to the Taliban and was shot through the head yet still lived to tell her tale and even Ricky Gervais who highlights the hypocrisy of Hollywood at every opportunity. (Incidentally, all three are Ox-Cancer.)

NOTE: The above does not mean there is a good or bad chart, it means that certain combinations are born with certain traits; these are just patterns, all chart combinations are neutral in essence, the direction you choose depends on how you choose to use your innate traits.

There isn’t an abundance of resources in Ox years and people prefer to complete minor jobs themselves rather than paying someone else. Rather than getting bonuses in pay, many may find that they get rewarded with periods of free time. Spending more time in nature is commonplace as the Ox is the gardener of the cycle and loves nothing more than spending time working the land. They also find it hard to express their emotions or show vulnerability so other signs may be lent this inhibition also.

Remain respectful and as diplomatic as possible whilst standing your ground, work hard without expecting praise and keep the finish line in your minds eye. Employ every ounce of your discipline and don’t look for an easy way out. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in Ox territory, it would be wise to do as the Ox says for an easy life… although “easy” is not a word for this year. It is likely to be a slow and steady year with no great perks as such, just amazing spirit and a big quiet heart.

2021 is the year of the Ox.

For your 2021 prediction, click on your sign at the bottom left of the screen.

2020 - The Year of the Rat

Another twelve year cycle comes to an end and on the 25th January 2020, the gracious Boar hands us over to the charming Rat.

 

Innovative, progressive and active, the next twelve months are likely to push us to proceed with our goals.  It is somehow easier to undertake detailed work without getting a headache, easier to remain focused and surprisingly easy to achieve your goals once firmly set. This is the Rat influence at work. Rat years are known for their abundance of opportunity, so if ever there was a time to get out there, it would be now, despite any potential drawbacks or interruption.

 

The element attached to this particular Rat year is Metal.  This is the Rat that knows how to function within a crisis.  As such, we are lent even greater powers of problem solving and tenacity.  The media and communications are important this year as we all become increasingly self-reliant and entrepreneurial.  People will be more ready to put in the sweat and tears to create their dreams.  The Dog year (2018) gave us self-confidence, the Pig (2019) taught us how to be uninhibited and the Rat (2020) plies us with an infinite amount of ambition.  This year will have us planning and laying the foundations for 2021, the year of the Ox where we are lent the capacity to barge through any opposition or barriers with ease.

 

60 lunar years complete one full Chinese astrological cycle; these are then broken down into five smaller cycles of twelve years each. We are now beginning the third spin, the third rebirth.  With the resolutions and endings of last year, it is the perfect time to concentrate on yourself and rebuild your identity.

 

Economically, think long term and barter for purchases until you get a bargain.  Let’s not forget it’s the year of opportunity, which the Chinese say often comes through crisis.  Business wise, the brave will win; the prudent will win; those who give up do not deserve to win.  With every difficulty there is associated guidance directing you to success. This is especially the case in 2020. Remain hopeful, the universe is on your side.  Just have faith that the solution is on its way.

 

Many people born in the year of the Rat choose to go into the social sciences, counselling, teaching or spiritual fields, anywhere they can aid the development of another’s self-esteem.  Likewise, the coming Rat year will focus primarily on self development and the completion of objectives that will further each individual’s personal growth.

 

Last year encouraged us to cut emotional ties from negative situations and if we were unable to make the decision for ourselves, fate stepped in returning us to a state of innocence. From here we now proceed. Accessing the Rat’s higher intelligence, we see the world with new eyes, we process the two previous cycles of our experience through an advanced perspective and we see the light in every grey cloud.  2020 is going to be a year where we alter the boundaries of our established world view; it could test our tenacious spirit, where achievement comes through proactive pursuit and personal development, through thinking outside of the box.  If ever was there a time for that Rat entrepreneur to step out, it's now.  Let that energy imbue you with it's superpowers and you'll find a way to make lemonade out of every lemon... and more.

2020 is the Year of the Rat.

Chinese New Year: 5th February 2019

The Year of the Boar

By Zakariya Adeel

 

2019

 

We emerge, barely intact from the demanding Dog year, unable to cope with anymore scrutiny to enter a paradise-like haven where everything is made of Belgian chocolate and sugar sweet candy. This, the Boar has hand-made to spoil us rotten. Yes, it is a year to let the defenses down and revel in a little luxury. Relaxed, cheerful and extravagant, the Boar knows how to have a good time and shares it with us over the next twelve months.

 

The Boar owns the twelfth year of the Chinese cycle and is known as the year of “Good Will” where all signs are accommodated for in ways that specifically suit them. Keep hold of your will-power though and remember to discipline yourself. If you eat your chocolate house, you’ll be out in the liquorish street and the cola rain will ruin your hair.

 

With the Boar’s carefree attitude, problems are not taken too seriously and the focus is more on social activities rather than business. That’s not to say that business is forgotten, the Boar year promises to be profitable for commercial ventures, as long as all the details are checked before any funds are invested.

 

The subjective and sociable Boar creates an environment where informal casualness reaps larger rewards than an objective formality. Much of the business leads converted this year will be from contacts and reputation. Everybody feels like they are on holiday for the year and they just want to soak up the sun and do whatever feels good. This may mean that projects are prolonged and deadlines are not always met, but it’s not the end of the world is it?

 

Being one of the most sensual signs, the Boar encourages new experiences where your senses are thoroughly exercised. It is a good year for food, a bad year for diets; a good year for extravagant shopping, a bad year for your accountant; a good year for sensuality-led activities, a bad year for hard-core traditionalists. Expect numerous parties with open invitations and everyone is welcomed.

 

There is an inherent irrationality or better put heightened emotionality to the Boar sign, which is reflected in their years. Things may not proceed as expected because the obvious choice which would lead to the obvious desired outcome, may be rejected without good reason. Decisions will be made based upon feelings and gut responses instead of detached objectivity. Although this is one’s prerogative in personal situations, it can be risky where business and financial matters are concerned. This is why it is still recommended to dot the I’s and cross the T’s.

If you have a sensitive disposition, the Boar influence may add to the apprehension you may feel when trying to please. Paralysis by over-analysis might lead people to undermine their own abilities. On the other hand, harsher personalities often soften from the Boars gentle energy. Being self-disciplined and confident is of paramount importance this year to ensure that desired outcomes are achieved. Extravagance and overindulgence is all very well as long as you remember to go to work on Monday morning.

The current Chinese cycle comes to an end with Boar years so this year is full of conclusions, revelations where truths are finally revealed and dénouements take place. At the same time, festivities abound and there is much to be learned. The Boar year is where we learn how to be happy without needing money or success and learn how to “be” with humility and simplicity.

 

To find out what the boar year has in store for you, look up your animal sign in the year charts and read what the Chinese fates have to say.

 

The Rat

Your fortunes in 2019

As a highly empathic sign, you may be susceptible to the moods of other people, so it makes sense to choose wisely whom you associate with, as there may be some who are struggling around you. Help by all means, just be aware of your boundaries and do not feel bad about pulling back from people who impose upon your good nature. There may be much to be grateful for and even some things that look too good to be true. Follow your feelings and if it feels right, go on an adventure, but do not invest anything you are not prepared to lose. Boar years are great ones for Rat signs to meet a new partner or make a commitment to an existing one. Lose the worry and unnecessary fear and this Boar year will be a romantic and happy one.  This is the beginning of a positive three-year roll for you – so make a three-year plan at the beginning part of this year.

 

The Ox

Your fortunes in 2019

You will find that much of your time will be spent handling family matters and dealing with consuming issues that pull you away from all that you would rather be doing. It may be time-consuming, but deep inside, you know that there are something’s that only you are equipped to deal with. There is much to look forward to also, many opportunities come your way that allows you to travel, take a new career direction and even move home if you chose to. The power is yours to choose as long as you handle your current responsibilities first. Do not take on everything in one go, organise your diary because you will not be able to control your time in quite the way you are used to. The Boar year is an auspicious one for romance, you must be aware not to see through rose-tinted glasses though and you may need to sift through the frogs before you find the one.

 

The Tiger

Your fortunes in 2019

The Dog year (2018) set you down a certain road and provided a new kind of stability, as a result, you enter the Boar year (2019) holding on to things that have now served their purpose.  This is the time to let the past go. This isn’t easy for you as loyalty is a big thing; if it comes down to your integrity and your best interests versus a distorted sense of loyalty to someone who doesn’t deserve your favour, it would be wise to choose yourself. By the end of the year, you may be without “friends” who had previously been fixture in your life. Even if they chose to leave themselves, this is a good thing for you. Consequently, you will welcome the arrival of fresh energies that awaken another side of you that makes you feel alive. That is when you will be able to achieve a lot in a short space of time. In terms of the contracts you may be offered this year, it’s important to check the details, fine print and people attached before committing. If you commit, commit fully as the gains could be vast.

 

The Rabbit

Your fortunes in 2019

As one of your best friends, the Boar’s year is a safe and protected one where you can afford to be bold enough to make some courageous moves. It is always wise to make sure you have done your research to the level it is required, especially when finances are concerned. Courage is great, but covering all of your bases ensures that your choices are more likely to bring you what you want. Although everybody is in a giving mood, providing your time may be the wisest investment of all, both spiritually and for your own professional advancement. There are many influential people around watching you carefully; make sure they see you at your best. Spend in moderation and avoid gambling activities. Generally, it is a good year where you can get ahead, but not without some hard work and moxie.

 

The Dragon

Your fortunes in 2019

This is a much more stable year for you where you regain your authority, your territory, and your power. It is a very lucky year and goals can be achieved by maintaining a positive frame of mind and by being a good example of what you stand for. The Dog year suppressed your presence, but it is back with full force now and attracts desired opportunities towards you. It is likely to be a busy and sociable year where everything seems to go your way so set forth your intentions and make your plans early because if you do not, you can get drawn into the plans of others. You are happy to be back to your powerful Dragon self but others might abuse your ego and get you to do their bidding. Be mindful of your purpose. However, as a karmic sign, what you give out is what you get back and releasing good energy in the year of the Boar snowballs in your favour.

 

The Snake

Your fortunes in 2019

As you enter the year of the Boar which is your polar opposite sign, potential obstacles may raise their heads and demand your time. You may encounter people who are not enamoured by your wisdom and fail to be taken in by your charm. This may affect your self-esteem and consequently, other areas of your life. However, with your tenacity and intrepid nature, you will develop new ways of handling situations that will serve you well. It is not a year to take shortcuts, even if you see others taking them. Do not be tempted to follow the road of least resistance because that way lies a snake trap. Be good, do good and expect good in return. However, the Boar is generous to all and will not leave you vulnerable so it will be a mixed year of blessings and lessons learned the hard way. Your humility and sense of humour will be your best assets.

 

The Horse

Your fortunes in 2019

Liking to keep your feet firmly on the ground, the year of the Boar may frustrate your delicate nerves by sending you in different directions at the same time rendering you unable to trust your instincts that got you there. The problem is external factors are influencing your decision-making and you don’t know what you believe anymore so are going by what you think you should believe. It is likely to be a busy year where you play trouble-shooter for many projects. Take time to rest and search yourself for your moral centre so you maintain a sense of who you are and can choose your fights sensibly. It is a great time to buy property or make long-term investments.

The Sheep

Your fortunes in 2019

After the distressing Dog year, the Boar brings welcome comfort. In fact, it could turn out to be one of the best years of your life. The atmosphere the Boar creates is perfectly aligned to the way you like to live, happiness and abundance everywhere you look. Your money situation improves and your self-confidence is at a high after you were forced into confrontations last year which taught you a lot. This is just as well as you may be subjected to a number of parasites whom you need to assertively direct to the door. You are in a good place to control your future and your pure intentions give you a glow which makes you highly attractive so it’s a great year to find the love of your life if you haven’t already.

 

The Monkey

Your fortunes in 2019

A steady year where you could make lots of money, although, the methods you must follow may not be your preference. Things move slower than you would like. Do not get drawn into unhealthy habits though as you are susceptible to excessive influences. Keep your own counsel and try to keep up your personal routine that keeps your mind and body in good stead. It is a time to avoid petty arguments so placate rather than antagonise, as you don’t want to back yourself into a corner that you cannot climb away from. Yes, it is famously known amongst Chinese Astrologers that the Monkey is mentally very quick and likes to show off his mental acuity, but that’s lost on the Boar who finds it all unnecessary. Exercise prudence more than usual, as people will not be as reasonable as you would like and just fight your cheeky tendency to provoke. Just chill and get involved with the fun and games, it’s a more productive pass time this year. Lots of sensual pleasures await you if you are open to the adventures.

The Rooster

Your Fortunes in 2019

The end of last year may have seen large changes in your personal circumstances which has led you to be more cautious and ready for something new. In your mind it just feels like all preparation and no outcome or release. Keep in mind that all of your work is leading somewhere and faith is necessary to nurture your dreams. Keep your own counsel and resist the tendency to ask all of your friends for their advice because you already know what you want. Also, although secretly you love activity and being busy, this year may see you so busy that you’ll want to yell “Stop!” Not that you can’t handle it, but love or family life may be affected by your missing involvement. You are not alone, although, at times, you may feel it. Look around you, you are loved and everyone is stood there with their hearts wide open.

 

The Dog

Your fortunes in 2019

The last few years have been preparatory, getting you in the right place to capitalise on your skills or a favourable environment and finally, it is here. It is time for you to show the world what you are made of and come out in grand style. The time and place could not be better for your creative ventures to come to fruition, just commit 100% and go for it. As a big brother to the Boar sign, your affection and protection is returned in the Boar’s year allowing you to take risks without severe repercussions. Your popularity could soar and everything is ripe for your picking. Have faith, leap and you could prosper in a way nobody could have imagined.

 

The Boar

Your fortunes in 2019

As the baby of the cycle, you love to be spoiled and this is your year so get ready to be showered with gifts and affection. Being so adorable, it’s hard for people to dislike you, especially in your own year so you can expect a healthy social life, entertaining and traveling. When everyone is so giving, you usually respond in like and this is all very well as long as you keep an eye on your bank balance. Moderation has never been your strong point, but a little self-discipline is a good idea. Allow yourself to receive the acclaim and love shamelessly because it’s rightfully yours. You deserve every ounce of it.