Your Chinese Horoscope 2010

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 own 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 2010

The Year of the Ox (26 January 2009 to 13 February 2010) holds encouraging prospects for the Ox and in the remaining months he can accomplish a great deal. However, to make the most of this time he will need to be open and pay special attention to his relations with others. The Ox often has a tendency to set about his activities in his own way—some Oxen are particularly independent—but to get the most from the remaining months of the Ox year he should make the most of his chances to meet others. Many Oxen can look forward to some rewarding occasions in their home life at this time and these can often be all the more special due to a family celebration earlier in the year. For many Oxen, 2009 can be a personally memorable year. For those enjoying romance this can be an exciting time, while those who are unattached could find their social life becoming much busier.

This likelihood of social activity also applies to the Ox’s work, and in the closing months of the year he would do well to liaise with 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 to talk these through can be of great help. Tiger years are active ones and it is important that quality time is preserved for home life. If the Metal Ox has any ideas for shared activities, including home or garden improvements, he should put them forward, as they will often be appreciated. By being aware and open he will play a central and valued role in his domestic life.

As far as financial matters are concerned, this is a year for vigilance. Not only should the Metal Ox keep a close watch on his budget and make allowance for forthcoming expenses, but he should also be thorough with paperwork. This includes checking any forms he may be required to complete and the terms of any agreements he may enter into, as well as making sure essential policies are kept up to date. The Tiger year is not one for carelessness or risk.

Overall, this will be a demanding and sometimes disruptive year for the Metal Ox. Changes may suddenly arise and he could feel buffeted by events or situations outside his control. However, by being willing to adapt, he can often learn from them. And while the Tiger year may not be an easy one, the Metal Ox’s hard-fought achievements will be something that he can build on and enjoy more fully in following years.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Pay attention to your relations with others. Listen to their views and be open and communicative. Also, spend time on your interests. They can do you a lot of good as well as keep your lifestyle in balance.

The Water Ox

This will be a mixed year for the Water Ox. He may well find himself under increased pressure and certain plans may be more difficult to realize than he had hoped. However, while there will be times of disappointment and sometimes despair, there will also be some very special moments and personal successes. This may not be an easy year, but it can be an important and illuminating one.

At work this will be a demanding year and while the conscientious Water Ox will often want to be left to carry out his own duties, distractions and delays are likely to arise. In addition he could find his work is not made any easier by the attitude of some colleagues or a lack of resources or other support. Some of the year will test his forbearance. However, one of his qualities is that he is no quitter. He is prepared to work hard, and by doing what he can, he will not only overcome some of the year’s obstacles but also have the opportunity to learn new skills. In addition his fortitude will often impress others and when opportunities arise many Water Oxen will find themselves well positioned to benefit. ‘Problems are opportunities in disguise,’ as the saying goes, and this will hold very true for the Water Ox this year.

Water Oxen who are anxious to change their job or who are seeking work could find it particularly helpful to consult those in a position to help. These could be career advisers, employment agencies or professional organizations, but by drawing on the advice available and widening their options, these Water Oxen may be offered an interesting new challenge. The Tiger year may be demanding, but the chances will be there. March, April, September and November could see some interesting possibilities.

Throughout the year, though, the Water Ox will need to be careful in financial matters. He could face some additional expenses, including costs for repairing and replacing equipment as well as helping with the activities of others. As a result he will need to keep a close watch on his spending and whenever possible save in advance. He should also check forms and financial agreements thoroughly and follow up anything that is unclear. This is no year for risk.

One of the most satisfying areas of the year will be the personal projects the Water Ox decides to set himself. For more creative Water Oxen, these could involve making items or using their skills in new ways, but whatever the Water Ox chooses to do, in this often busy year it is important he preserves time for activities he enjoys. Any Water Oxen who have let their interests lapse in recent times would do well to consider rectifying this. Also, Tiger years do favour the new and it could be that a pursuit that has recently become popular could be very suitable.

The Water Ox’s domestic life will also see a lot of activity over the year and he will do much to assist others. Younger relations in particular could be facing academic pressures and here the Water Ox’s encouragement and understanding will be particularly valued. Sometimes more senior relations will also look to the Water Ox for assistance and while he will again do much to help, there will be times when he will be torn in several directions and have to rush from one matter to another. There could also be some situations that concern him and add to the pressure. When this happens, or he has decisions preying on his mind, or is worried about the attitudes of others, it is important that he is forthcoming. With discussion, problems can often be resolved, tensions eased and decisions made. In this demanding year, openness and co-operation are essential.

While there will be some particularly busy times during the year, there will, however, also be some occasions which will mean a great deal to the Water Ox. An academic success, some progress made or a holiday or break can all bring a great deal of pleasure as well as be good for domestic rapport and understanding.

It is also important that the Water Ox does not feel so busy that he has to cut back on his socializing over the year. This not only helps keep his lifestyle in balance but can also give him the opportunity to get to know others. The unattached and those hoping for a more fulfilling social life will find that by going out and giving themselves the chance to meet others, their positive actions can lead to an improvement in their situation. March, April, June and August to early September could see the most social activity.

Overall, the Tiger year will be fast-moving and there will be times when the Water Ox will feel concerned about developments or under pressure. However, by doing what he can and rising to the challenges of the year he will gain important experience which he will be able to build on in the future. This is a time to remain alert, be prepared to adapt and remain mindful of others.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Although you will have many demands on your time, do not let these prevent you from developing your interests. These can bring balance to your lifestyle as well as offer much personal satisfaction. Also, at busy or worrying times, do draw on the assistance of others. This can help you in many ways.

The Wood Ox

There are two words that it would be helpful for the Wood Ox to keep in mind this year: ‘awareness’ and ‘flexibility’. This will be a busy year and throughout the Wood Ox will need to remain alert and be prepared to adapt. He may have firm ideas and objectives, but to stay too wedded to these could hinder his progress.