Your Chinese Horoscope 2010

This will be an important year for the Metal Rat, not only marking the start of a new decade in his life but also bringing some key decisions and changes. This may not be the easiest or smoothest of years, but its effects can be far-reaching.

One notable aspect of the Metal Rat’s nature is his ambition. He is keen and resourceful and able to use his talents in many different ways. Over the year these will continue to serve him well, and by being willing to explore possibilities, whether in his work or personal interests, he will be able to learn a great deal. Although moving away from the familiar may be uncomfortable, what opens up to him this year can prove to be the chance and challenge he now needs.

At work this can be a decisive year. For some Metal Rats there could be significant promotion opportunities, and while these may be something they have been working towards for some time, they could have an impact in several ways. Not only will they entail learning new skills but they could also involve changes to routine and sometimes location. Nevertheless, while personally daunting, these opportunities can give these Metal Rats’ career the boost they have been wanting for some time.

For Metal Rats who are content in their present position, again change could beckon. Whether this is brought about through new management, the introduction of new working practices or more senior staff moving on, many Metal Rats will find themselves being given further responsibilities. They may be concerned about their increased role and workload, but by being prepared to adapt and make the most of their situation, they will not only add to their skills but also open up other possibilities for the future. A key feature of the Tiger year is that its effects can be far-reaching.

For those Metal Rats seeking work, either at the start of the Tiger year or during it, again some important possibilities can open up. Securing a position will require effort, and the Tiger year does not always make things easy or straightforward for Rats, but with faith, self-belief and a certain amount of initiative, many will find their tenacity rewarded. Mid-March to the end of April, June and September to mid-November could see considerable activity, but with the fast-moving nature of the Tiger year, ideas and possibilities need to be followed up as they arise.

One of the Metal Rat’s strengths is his ability to get on well with people and over the year he should continue to use these skills well. Whether working with others or meeting new people in his line of work, he will impress many with his eager manner and willingness to assist.

As with all Rats in 2010, travel is likely to figure prominently for the Metal Rat, and whether he is travelling for work or pleasure, he should allow time to plan his itinerary and read up about his destination. By going well-prepared, he will make his time away all the more successful. If there is a particular destination that appeals to him, he should talk this over with his loved ones and see what is possible. Some Metal Rats could be tempted to mark their fiftieth year with a special trip or holiday and for many their travels could be one of the highlights of the year.

The Metal Rat is generally careful in money matters, but he should try to make advance provision for his projects and purchases over the year. With good budgeting, he will be able to proceed with many of his plans, but this is a year for careful control, especially with everyday spending.

With the progressive nature of the Tiger year, he should also give some consideration to his interests and recreational pursuits. These bring an important balance to his lifestyle and if there is a particular interest or idea he has been keen to explore, this would be a good year to follow it up. Trying something new or extending his existing knowledge could open up exciting new possibilities both now and in the future. Any Metal Rats who are sedentary for much of the day and do not tend to take much regular exercise would also do well to consider activities that could remedy this. With their fiftieth year marking change and new possibilities, they can benefit from positive action.

In their relations with others, they will find that family, friends and colleagues can all offer useful encouragement and support, but the year still calls for a certain care. In particular the Metal Rat will need to be prepared to consult and listen. To appear too single-minded could not only undermine rapport but also prevent him from benefiting from the opinions of others. In addition, it is important that he spends quality time with his loved ones. In this frequently busy year there is the risk that he might not give the time or attention to others that he has in the past, and this could lead to possible disagreements. With thoughtful-ness, this can be a rich and special year, but without, tensions could loom. Metal Rats, do take careful note. Nevertheless, the Tiger year could well be marked by occasions that will mean a great deal to the Metal Rat, including possible celebrations and surprises for his birthday.

He should also make sure his social life does not suffer due to all his activity and should aim to preserve some time for going out and meeting friends as well as treating himself and his loved ones to any social events that appeal. Metal Rats who are alone and would welcome a more active social life will find that positive action can reward them well. By going out, joining interest groups and making a special effort to meet those who are like-minded, they can form some new and often significant friendships. For the unattached, romantic prospects are also promising. Here again, Tiger years reward those who are prepared to put themselves forward. May, July, August to mid-September and December could see the most social activity. In general, the Year of the Tiger will be a demanding one for the Metal Rat, particularly in view of some of the changes that will occur. But while the pressures may sometimes be great and there will be times of uncertainty and concern, the year can mark the dawn of a new and important phase. This is a year to be open to possibility, to rise to situations and to keep alert for opportunity. With a willingness to move forward, the Metal Rat can make this an important and personally significant time and one which can also have a positive bearing on the next few years.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Despite the activity of the year, do make time for those who are important to you. Extra attention and thoughtful-ness can make a real difference to the year and your prospects.

The Water Rat

The Water Rat is blessed with a great many qualities. He has a willing nature, is prepared to put himself forward and, with the element of Water strengthening his skills as a communicator, he will have a lot in his favour during the Tiger year. To benefit, however, he will need to show flexibility and be prepared to adapt to the situations that arise.

At work, change is indicated, and although many Water Rats will have seen a lot happen in recent years, this period of transition is far from over. Whether settled in a particular position or keen to move on, the Water Rat will need to remain alert and seize opportunities as they occur. In some cases sudden changes in personnel could create openings or new initiatives could give the Water Rat the chance to build on his experience and take on a new role. This is a year for moving forward, even if it may not always be in the exact way the Water Rat had envisaged.

This also applies to those Water Rats seeking work or a change from their present role. The Tiger year can be a time of new starts and by being flexible, considering a wide range of options and talking to those who can advise them, many Water Rats can be alerted to new ways of using their skills and given fresh possibilities to consider. Mid-March to the end of April, June, September and October could see some interesting work developments and the Tiger year favours those who seize the initiative.

Another factor in the Water Rat’s favour is his keen and inquisitive mind, and by being prepared to further himself in some way, whether through enrolling on courses, undertaking personal study or trying new subjects or activities, he can help his prospects both now and in the near future.

He would also do well to allow time for recreational pursuits, especially those that allow him to get additional exercise or are in contrast to his usual daily activities. Also, if there are activities that appeal to him, this would be an ideal year to try them out. In 2010 it is important the Water Rat keeps his lifestyle in balance.

Travel will also feature strongly for many Water Rats. Some could benefit from attractive offers they see or could decide to go away at the last moment. However their trips come about, the rest and change of scene can do the Water Rat a lot of good. For those not able to take a long break, just a few days away or visiting others could be particularly beneficial.

With the possibility of travel and all his current commitments, the Water Rat will need to keep a close watch on his financial situation. This includes making early provision for some of his plans as well as watching his level of spending. This is no year for risks or too many spontaneous purchases.

The activity of the Tiger year will also filter through to the Water Rat’s home life and here good communication and co-operation will be more important than ever. Whenever the Water Rat has pressures or is concerned about decisions and possible work changes, it is important that he talks them through with those around him. Not only can loved ones provide understanding and advice but sometimes just the process of talking can help him sort out his own thoughts. This is no year to keep worries to himself. Similarly, if any pressures or domestic problems arise, a willingness to talk can be to the benefit of all. In addition the Water Rat will do much to assist more senior relations, with his thoughtful-ness being particularly appreciated. Domestically, this will be a busy year, but despite its pressures it can bring some notable family successes, and the progress of younger relations could be especially delightful.

With all the activity of the year, many Water Rats will be more selective with their socializing than of late, but it is important that they keep in contact with their friends. This is no time for the Water Rat to withdraw into himself and let his social life lapse. May, July, August, December and January are likely to see the most social activity.

The Tiger year will ask a lot of the Water Rat but will also give him the opportunity to develop his strengths and open himself up to new possibilities. By being forward thinking and adapting to the situations that arise, he can make this a constructive and personally satisfying year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Pay particular attention to your relations with others. Be open with them. Discuss, talk, consult and help. This is an important time for you and those around you will play a significant and valuable part.

The Wood Rat

The Wood Rat will have accomplished a lot in the last few years and the Tiger year will offer him some interesting opportunities. It may not be a smooth or easy year, but its significance can be far-reaching.

As the Tiger year starts the Wood Rat would do well to take some time to consider his present position and possible next moves. He would find it helpful to talk to others and mention the ideas he is considering. By doing so, he will not only clarify in his own mind what he wants to do but will benefit from the advice and assistance that others can give. As all Rats will find, this is no year for standing still, and by deciding early on what he wants to work towards, the Wood Rat can get the year off to an encouraging start.

At work this could be a particularly important year, with almost all Wood Rats involved in change. Whether this arises through restructuring, opportunities in their present place of work or the decision to move on, many Wood Rats will alter their role in some way. With possible changes to their routine and/or commute, as well as new responsibilities, this can be daunting, but by rising to the challenge the Wood Rat will not only make positive headway but greatly add to his experience.

For Wood Rats who are keen to take their career in a new direction or are seeking work, the Tiger year can bring some interesting possibilities. By seeking advice, exploring options and considering other ways in which they can use their strengths, many Wood Rats will succeed in obtaining a new and often very different position. Persistence will be required, but for the determined this can be a time of positive change. Mid-March to the end of April, June and September to mid-November could see some good opportunities, but with the prevailing aspects the Wood Rat will need to keep alert throughout the year and act quickly when he sees any openings that interest him.

With the Wood Rat’s ability to relate so well to others, he should also make the most of the chances he has to network and meet others and, if appropriate, join a professional organization. By getting himself better known he can help his situation and the level of support and advice he receives.

This also applies to his personal interests. If he is able to meet other enthusiasts, whether at special events or by joining a local group, he will find this not only adds to the fun and pleasure his interests can bring but can also lead to him learning and achieving a lot more. By putting himself forward and making the most of his opportunities, he can gain a great deal. In addition, for those who are unattached and would perhaps welcome a more active and fulfilling social life, their interests can be an excellent way to meet those who are similarly minded, and for some, important new friendships or a special romance can follow on. For socializing and meeting others, May, July, August and December could be active and interesting months.

With the busy lifestyle the Wood Rat leads it is also important that he takes good care of himself. This includes having a nutritious and balanced diet as well as taking regular and appropriate exercise. This could be of considerable benefit to him.

The Wood Rat will also need to be careful in money matters. With his current commitments and often expensive plans, he will need to be disciplined in his spending and make early provision for some of the projects he has in mind. Also, where important transactions are concerned, he would do well to check the terms and obligations and, where appropriate, seek advice. This is a year for care and good money management.

Both personally and domestically this will be a busy year, with a lot for the Wood Rat to do and think about. Where necessary, he should be forthcoming and prepared to talk about his concerns. Also, when in company he needs to be attentive and listen closely to others to avoid any possible misunderstanding. However, while the Tiger year does call for a certain awareness, the Wood Rat can look forward to many memorable times with close friends and loved ones. These could include realizing certain hopes and plans as well as enjoying travel and joint activities. Personally, there can be a lot to enjoy this year, but the Wood Rat does need to remain alert and liaise closely with others.

The Wood Rat has many fine talents and knows he has it within him to achieve a great deal. The Tiger year will give him the chance to broaden his experience, learn through change and discover new strengths. It can be an instructive year with far-reaching value—a demanding time, but in many respects a positive one.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Do not be too restrictive in your outlook and remain open to possibility. Also, consult others and make sure you give time to loved ones. They can play a very special part in your year.

The Fire Rat

The element of Fire gives a sign added determination. Fire signs are the doers of the Chinese zodiac and often have compelling personalities. The Fire Rat certainly has much in his favour, with his earnestness and good people skills being assets that will serve him well throughout his life. During the Tiger year he will have the chance to use his strengths, but he needs to be disciplined. Scattering his energies too widely could affect what he is able to achieve. The Tiger year requires focus.

In the Fire Rat’s education, he needs to stay well organized and concentrate on what has to be done. Working steadily throughout the year will not only allow him to fare better but also to learn more. In addition many Fire Rats will be introduced to new subjects or skills, and by applying themselves and working at these, they could discover certain strengths they will be keen to develop in the future. Educationally, this can be a positive and interesting time, but to benefit the Fire Rat needs to be committed and make the most of his chances.

This also applies to his interests and recreational pursuits. If there is a skill that he wants to learn or improve on, he should find the time to do so. In order to get results he will need to be disciplined and concentrate on what he wants to do, even if this may mean cutting back on other activities. But the effort he makes can reward him well.

There will also be a good chance for the Fire Rat to get to know others over the year, especially through his interests, and he may appreciate a special friendship and some lively and fun times. However, while socially the year will see some good times, a certain care is needed. If the Fire Rat should find himself involved in activities or high jinks he has misgivings about, he should follow his better judgement. Similarly, if he has concerns over any matter, whether educationally or personally, rather than dwell on it by himself he should talk to those in a position to help and advise. Fire Rats, do take note and remember that support and advice are available to you.

Many Fire Rats will also have the opportunity to travel during the year and whether their trips are connected with their studies or a holiday, they can add some excitement and interest to the year.

As far as the Fire Rat’s domestic life is concerned, he needs to be open and communicative. Those around him will often be keen to encourage and help him, but to benefit he does need to be forthcoming. If he is also prepared to contribute to home life, he can generate a better understanding with his loved ones and enjoy more as a result. Again, it is worth the Fire Rat making the effort. Whether in his home life, his interests or his school-work, the more involved he is, the more he can benefit.

For Fire Rats born in 1936, this is a year for deciding on plans and carrying them out. If the Fire Rat lets himself get distracted, there is a risk that chances could slip by and he could find himself not able to make as much of the year as he would like. His ideas could concern almost any area of his life—perhaps modifications to his home, hobbies and projects he wants to pursue, travel or some other area of interest—but by giving some thought to what he wants to do and putting in the effort, he can enjoy some satisfying times. Also, sharing thoughts with those close to him can lead to more happening as well as to offers of additional support.

Another factor in the Fire Rat’s favour will be the way he keeps himself informed. This can lead to hearing of opportunities or offers that are ideal for him or benefits that could help his present situation. This is a year to be aware and open to possibility.

Whether born in 1936 or 1996, this can be a rewarding year for the Fire Rat, but it is one requiring effort and discipline. However, if he focuses on what he wants to do, makes the most of the support of those close to him and seizes his opportunities, he will often be pleased with the results his efforts and diligence can bring.

TIP FOR THE YEAR