Your Chinese Horoscope 2013: What the year of the snake holds in store for you

PROSPECTS FOR THE OX IN 2013

The Year of the Dragon (23 January 2012–9 February 2013) will have been a variable one for the Ox and the closing months will be busy but not without opportunity.

One of the many features of the Dragon year is that a lot happens very quickly and in the remaining months of it the Ox needs to keep his wits about him and be flexible in approach. To be too obtuse or vent his feelings too forcibly could cause problems and undermine some of what he is hoping to do. He needs to tread carefully.

At work many Oxen could face additional pressures. While demanding, these will often give the Ox greater chance to use his judgement and demonstrate his skills, and considerably enhance his reputation in the process. Oxen who are seeking work should remember that Dragon years favour initiative. If they are quick at following up suitable vacancies, quite a few of them could secure a position, even if only a temporary one, before the year’s end.

With many expenses likely in the closing months of the year, the Ox should try to make early provision for these as well as be disciplined in everyday spending.

He can, though, derive much pleasure from his home and social life at this time, and will not only benefit from spending time with family and friends but also from their advice and encouragement. September, December and early January could be particularly active times, and for the unattached, affairs of the heart could add some excitement to the closing months of the Dragon year.

The Year of the Snake begins on 10 February and the Ox will not only feel more comfortable with its more measured pace but can also look forward to making good headway. Snake years suit the Ox’s personality and in this one his prospects are bright.

For Oxen who may start the year nursing disappointment or regret, this is a time to look firmly ahead rather than feel fettered by what has gone before. These Oxen should regard 2013 as the start of a new chapter, one offering scope and possibility.

The Ox’s work situation in particular can present some excellent opportunities. In view of their recent endeavours, many Oxen will be well placed to be considered for a greater role. When opportunities arise, these Oxen should put themselves forward. Also, while the Ox is usually diligent and focused on his duties, he should also make a point of working closely with colleagues and taking the time to build up contacts. His efforts and dependable manner will impress many. Snake years reward effort and application.

For Oxen who feel unfulfilled in their present position as well as those seeking work, again the Snake year can open up important opportunities. By giving careful thought to what they would like to do and investigating possibilities, these Oxen can see some interesting chances arising. To benefit, they need to be active in their quest, but persistence and tenacity will prevail. The positions some obtain will mark a considerable change in their duties and involve a steep learning curve, but a key feature of the Snake year is that it is a time of possibility. February, April, June and November could see particularly encouraging developments.

Snake years also favour learning and if any Ox feels an additional skill or qualification could help his prospects, he should consider setting time aside to acquire this. Whether enrolling on a course, studying online or doing some reading and research by himself, he will find furthering his knowledge and skills can not only be satisfying but also an often valuable investment in himself. For Oxen with specific aspirations, this would be an excellent year to work towards these.

This emphasis on personal development also applies to the Ox’s own interests. Whether he prefers creative pursuits, practical projects or something more outward bound, he can derive much satisfaction from setting himself projects and using his ideas and skills.

Progress at work can help financially and some Oxen will have the chance to supplement their income through a hobby or interest. Hard work and enterprise will be well rewarded this year. However, the Ox should manage his money well, making allowance for his commitments and, if possible, reducing any borrowings. If he is able, he should take advantage of any tax incentives to save or contribute to a pension policy. His prudence and discipline will reward him in future years.

The Ox’s social life is also pleasingly aspected. Although it can be some time before he feels properly at ease with another person, he will find he gels quickly with some people he meets through his interests or work situation and they will soon become part of his trusted social circle. For the unattached, romantic prospects are encouraging and quite a few Oxen will marry or settle down this year. For socializing, March, June to early August and October can be special months.

One cautionary word does need to be sounded, however: the Ox does tend to immerse himself in his various activities and he needs to be careful that this does not cause him to be inattentive or preoccupied when in company. Also, if tired, he should ensure he does not to take out his irritations on others. No year is free of difficult moments and at such times the Ox does need to exercise care and be mindful.

The Ox’s home life will be busy over the year, and with so much activity, it is important there is good co-operation. If the Ox has particular ideas about home improvements, purchases, a possible holiday or special occasions, he will find that mentioning these early on will often give them a better chance of happening. In addition, with the encouraging aspects surrounding the Ox this year, there may be personal successes to share.

Overall, the Year of the Snake offers great possibility for the Ox. He sets about his activities with considerable resolve and this year he will see a lot open up for him. In addition, he will benefit from the support, goodwill and encouragement offered by others. In 2013 he will have a lot in his favour and his purposeful actions will help make this an often special year.

The Metal Ox

The Metal Ox has a determined nature. He is a doer and is also highly perceptive, and in the Snake year his abilities can reward him well.

To help get the most from the year, he should give some serious thought to what he would like to see happen over the next 12 months. Having some ideas in mind will not only give him something purposeful to strive for but can also help motivate and inspire him.

Work prospects are particularly encouraging. Metal Oxen who are well established in a particular profession will now have an excellent chance to take their career to a new level, either through a promotion, perhaps one the Metal Ox has been working towards for some time, or through being offered greater responsibilities or a different role. For many Metal Oxen, this will be a year of progress and their commitment will be recognized and rewarded.

The aspects are also encouraging for those who would welcome more major change as well as those seeking a position. Although the job-seeking process will be difficult, by keeping alert, making enquiries and considering different ways in which they could use their skills, these Metal Oxen could see some interesting possibilities opening up. To strengthen their application, they should find out more about the position they are applying for and emphasize their experience. Their initiative and tenacity can often lead to a new opportunity. February, April, June and November could see particularly good possibilities, but chances could arise at almost any time this year.

An important aspect of the year will be the way the Metal Ox is encouraged to make greater use of certain skills. He should take full advantage of any training offered as well as keep informed about developments in his industry. Such knowledge can not only be useful now but also as he looks to progress or considers other possibilities.

The progress the Metal Ox makes at work can help financially and he may also receive funds from another source. Nevertheless, he should manage his situation well, budgeting for commitments and making provision for future plans. He could find it helpful to review his position and if he is able to reduce borrowings, move funds to a more suitable account or take advantage of tax incentives to save or supplement his pension policy, he should consider this. With care, and advice where necessary, he can improve his financial situation as well as benefit from more major plans and purchases.

With his personal interests, again he should make the most of the encouraging aspects of the year. By allowing time to enjoy and develop his interests or setting himself purposeful new pursuits, he will be pleased with what he gets to do and the benefits that follow on. For Metal Oxen who enjoy more expressive activities in particular, this is a good time to explore new ideas and take their skills further. Metal Oxen who have let their interests lapse should consider starting something new over the year. They will enjoy the possibilities that this can open up.

The Metal Ox’s activities can also lead to meeting new people, and although he may sometimes be guarded in manner (a typical Ox trait), he should still make the most of such opportunities. By getting to know others and, in his work situation or with certain key interests, raising his profile and networking, he can do himself a lot of good. This is no year to keep himself to himself or be too independent in approach.

For Metal Oxen who would welcome new friends or romance, the Snake year again offers bright prospects, although these Metal Oxen will need to take the initiative and go out more. Positive action on their part can help make this an interesting and improved year. Late February, March, June to early August and October could see the most social activity and, for some, romantic opportunities.

The Metal Ox’s domestic life will also be busy, and with possible alterations to his work routine, some adjustments may be needed. At times of change, the implications do need to be talked through, and here the Ox should be open and forthcoming. Also, this is an excellent year for proceeding with ideas for the home, and good planning and co-operation will help. Domestically, this can be an active year marked with personal and family success and satisfying home undertakings.

Overall, this is a year favouring action and commitment, but it does require the Metal Ox to make decisions and then act. He should also liaise with others rather than attempt too much single-handed. With co-operation and support, he can make even more of this good, interesting and personally successful year.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Act. With initiative and effort, you can accomplish a great deal this year. Also, be mindful of others and consult them. This year has great potential for you – use it well.

The Water Ox

This year not only marks the start of a new decade in the Water Ox’s life but also offers growth, choice and some notable personal success.

One of the many factors in the Water Ox’s favour this year will be the way he is able to build on his experience. Whether in his work, interests or ideas, his background and diligence can serve him well. This is very much a time for moving ahead and, for some, drawing a line under recent disappointments and concentrating on the present and near future.

Work prospects are particularly encouraging and many Water Oxen will be well placed to put in for a greater role. Not only will they feel they feel the time is ripe for advancement, but some will also be helped by developments around them, possibly through new positions being created or more senior personnel moving on. However they come about, there will be opportunities for the Water Ox to benefit.

For Water Oxen desiring more major change or seeking work, again the Snake year can be one of interesting possibility. New companies or industries may be developing in the area where the Water Ox lives or he may see a vacancy that very much appeals to him. By putting himself forward and showing initiative, he may well be successful in his quest. Also, he should not let any rejection weaken his resolve. Persistence will pay off. February, April, June and November could see important developments, but opportunities could arise at almost any time.

Progress at work will also help financially and many Water Oxen may enjoy a rise in income over the year. Some could also benefit from a bonus or gift. Generally, the Snake year can mark an improvement in the Water Ox’s situation. However, to benefit, he will need to remain disciplined and take his time when considering larger purchases and plans.

The element of Water helps make the Water Ox a good communicator and throughout the year family, friends and colleagues will often seek out his views. While he will be glad to assist, he should also avail himself of the help that others can give. This includes getting feedback on ideas, asking for support at busy times and, in work matters, seeking information or expert opinion. The Water Ox may like to do a lot by himself, but he will be helped by readily involving others in his decisions and activities.

He will also have a good opportunity to get to know others over the year. As his work situation changes, he will have the chance to meet new colleagues, and his interests and friends can also introduce him to new people. He will enjoy a particularly good rapport with some of those he meets this year and important new friendships can be made. For the unattached, romantic prospects are also excellent, with some Water Oxen meeting their future partner. March, June to early August, late September and October could see the most social activity.

For Water Oxen who are starting the year dispirited and alone, the Snake year can mark the start of a general improvement in their situation. To help, they should consider what positive changes they could make, including perhaps starting a new hobby, enrolling on a course or joining an activity group. By doing something definite, they can help bring something new and purposeful into their lives. The Snake year is one of possibility.

Although the Water Ox generally keeps himself active, he should also pay attention to his well-being over the year and make sure he has a healthy diet and takes appropriate exercise. To be neglectful of this could leave him lethargic and prone to minor ailments. Water Oxen, take note.

In his home life, the Water Ox can look forward to some special times. Not only will those close to him be keen to mark his fortieth birthday, but there could be several other occasions to celebrate. In addition there may well be chances to enjoy a holiday and trips out with loved ones, and the Snake year may contain quite a few high points and surprises. However, while a lot will go well, it is important that there is good co-operation and that plans (as well as any problems) are talked through. This is not a year for the Water Ox to keep his thoughts to himself, but one favouring openness and sharing.

Overall, the Snake year holds considerable possibility for the Water Ox, and by taking action, he can make important headway. His relations with others will be positive and he will be encouraged by the support and affection shown him. The Water Ox is ambitious and keen to make the most of himself, and as he enters his fortieth year, his actions, determination and considerable personal skills can help get this new decade in his life off to a successful start.

TIP FOR THE YEAR

Take action. Purpose and determination can lead to a lot opening up for you. To make the most of yourself and the year’s encouraging trends, have faith in yourself and what you know in your heart you can do.

The Wood Ox

The Wood Ox will have seen a lot happen in recent years. There will have been successes and some memorable times, but there will have been disappointments too. The previous Dragon year in particular could have been demanding. However, as the Snake year begins, the Wood Ox can look forward to a shift in fortunes. This is a progressive year and with a willingness to put himself forward, he can realize some of the hopes that he has been nurturing for some time.

Almost as soon as the Snake year begins, if not shortly before, the Wood Ox will sense that this is a time when his actions can make a difference and, feeling more determined, he will quickly put his strengths to good use.

One area in which he will be keen to see change will be his work situation. Wood Oxen who have been in the same position for some time will now feel ready to take on new challenges. Whether with their existing employer or elsewhere, if they consider ways in which they can build on their experience, their background can make them particularly strong and often successful candidates when suitable vacancies arise.

For Wood Oxen seeking work or feeling disillusioned with what they are currently doing, again the Snake year can have important developments in store. Although the job-seeking process can be hard and there will be disappointments along the way, by having self-belief and emphasizing their skills and willingness to learn, many will be given a position with exciting potential. What is started in the Snake year can often be significant. February, April, June and November could see some good opportunities.