Chinese New Year of the Yang Earth Rat 2008 "Wu Zhi"

Chinese New Year is the longest and most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. The Chinese year 4706 begins on February 7, 2008

Though the Western rat is reviled as little more than a bottom-dwelling disease carrier, this animal is viewed much differently in the East. The Eastern rat is revered for its quick wits and its ability to accrue and hold on to items of value; rats are considered a symbol of good luck and wealth in both China and Japan. Clever and quick-witted, the Rat of the Chinese Zodiac is utterly disarming to boot. Possessed of excellent taste, this Sign flaunts its style at every turn. Its natural charm and sharp, funny demeanor make it an appealing friend for almost anyone. The Rat likes to know who is on its side and will treat its most loyal friends with an extra measure of protection and generosity.

Behind that sweet smile, though, Rats are keen and unapologetic promoters of their own agendas. This Sign is motivated by its own interests, which often include money; greed can become a problem if the Rat isn't careful to keep its priorities straight. This Sign's natural powers of charm and persuasion can definitely come in handy! Although they are often hoarders, Rats can be very generous to those in their pack, namely friends and family members who have proven their loyalty. Others might perceive them as quick-tempered and sharp-tongued, but never boorish. Verbal jousting is a great pleasure for the Rat, a Sign that everyone around will quickly learn either to love or to hate.

Rats enjoy being on the outside looking in, as the outside affords a view into the inner workings of a system or situation. The Rat's keen mind always seeks out new knowledge, to be stored away for future use. This ever-curious Sign also welcomes challenges as a way to stay sharp. If boredom sets in the Rat is no fun at all, but that isn't likely; this Sign knows how to keep itself entertained.

A valuable lesson for Rats is to learn to consider others above themselves, at least sometimes. If they can develop their sense of self and realize it leaves room for others in their life as well, Rats could find true happiness.

The most compatible match for a Rat is the Dragon, Monkey and Ox.

Let’s take a look at each animal, their major personality traits and what the prospects are for 2008, the Year of the Rat.

The Rat

Rats are charming, elegant and clever. They can be a bit gossipy and prone to being distracted. They’re also thrifty and very good with handling money. Family and close friends are exceptionally important to them. The Rat is charming beyond words and throughout his undoubtedly long life he will always be popular and will have many friends.

Forecast for 2008 In their own year, Rats need to make future plans, remain persistant, vigilant and above all, enjoy a brightening of prospects all around. In their work situation, excellent opportunities should arrive with an accompanying rise in salary. If, however, the Rat feels stuck, bored and unable to progress, he needs to follow through his ideas in order to move onwards and upwards – action will be a keyword this year for all Rats – it’s no time to sit idly by, waiting for good things to happen. There will be celebrations, social events and travel to also look forward to in 2008. Also, hobbies or interests that may have been put to one side, should be looked at with fresh eyes as they could prove both beneficial and lucrative to the Rat this year. All in all, this will be an enjoyable and prosperous year for those Rats who pursue their dreams. May and August will be particularly auspicious times for making new and close friends and alliances.

The Ox

Sturdy, earthy, no-nonsense – that’s the Ox. Affectionate and easy-going, the Ox can show a fierce temper when agitated. He is neat, tidy, quiet and studious, with a great love of his home. Music can be a great love. Family life and a loving partner are high on the Ox’s priorities. A wonderful loyal friend.

Forecast for 2008 The Ox could be quite tired after a hectic last couple of months in 2007. During 2008 the focus on work continues, with excellent prospects for promotion, moving to a better position and also taking up new skills. It will be important for the Ox to take time out for recreational and social pursuits in order to relax and remember to enjoy himself. 2008 will also be a lucky year for Ox’s with possible monetary gain or unexpected gifts arriving during the year. Friends will also play an important role in the year, providing support, camaraderie and fun times. The Ox is not the most social animal in the Zodiac and it’s important for him not to neglect his existing circle of friends this year. His well-considered and honest advice will be sought a few times over 2008. March to August will be a terrific time for work advancements.

The Tiger

Magnetic, passionate and grand! When the Tiger does anything, it’s noticed! Indecisiveness and stubbornness can mar the sparkle of the Tiger personality. On the one hand generous, on the other hand a little mean, it’s sometimes hard to know where one stands with the Tiger. Flexible, honest and truly entertaining, one has a friend for life with a Tiger.

Forecast for 2008 The final months of 2007 could prove frustrating to the Tiger if he has taken on too many projects or ideas. It’s important for him to tread carefully and purposefully at the start of the Year of the Rat in order to set a firm, strong foundation for the year. Otherwise, disappointment and frustration may follow. Many Tigers are extremely creative and imaginative and this is the year to use their talents. For those Tigers who are unfulfilled in their career, they may find it difficult to move. However, an unexpected and lucky opportunity will arise during the year for all Tigers – but beware – blink and you’ll miss it! The Tiger’s impulsiveness needs to reined in quite a bit during 2008 and if this is done, the year could prove highly enjoyable, lucky and satisfying. July to October will be the best time for new and exciting romantic opportunities.

The Rabbit

Cuddly, warm and affectionate are the attributes of the Rabbit. Mysterious and a great party-giver and host, the Rabbit enjoys being the centre of attention once in a while. The Rabbit is occasionally over cautious and can be a bit boring. He is also one of the luckiest signs in the Chinese Astrology chart.

Forecast for 2008 During the final couple of months of 2007, the Rabbit will need to keep a close eye on his finances in order to avoid hardship during the Year of the Rat. 2008 will prove to be a very social and fun year, with a highlight on romance and special get-togethers with friends. For the unattached Rabbit, this could well be the year to meet their soul mate. It will be important for Rabbits to be careful and avoid risk-taking during the Year of the Rat. Also, he needs to be aware that gossip and rumours may abound during the middle months of the year and that joining in with the whispers should be avoided – it could ultimately damage the Rabbit’s reputation. Home and hearth will be especially important this year – providing a safe and cosy sanctuary from a busy and eventful year. April and October will provide particular opportunities to travel and socialise.

The Dragon

Assertive, energetic and talented are all words to describe the Dragon personality. On the other hand, the Dragon has a tendency to be condescending and tactless without realising it. They generally enjoy robust health and tend to be very successful in anything they turn their hand to.

Highlights for 2008 This is the year for all Dragons to follow their dreams and carpe diem! It will be a happy and busy year for most Dragons with their bubbly and ebullient personality in great demand. Travel is well aspected but comes with a small warning - check that all travel documents are in order and that every detail is as it should be. Forward planning is a key phrase for the Year of the Rat! Career-wise, the Dragon who is seeking to change jobs will have an interesting proposition presented to them, making them feel valued and confident. On the home front, the Dragon loves his domesticity and this year it will be particularly important to him. Family activities and time spent at home will re-energise and relax the Dragon immensely. Carefully budgeting with money and wise investments will make the Year of the Rat extremely satisfying and happy. March to May will be well starred for promotion and career changes.

The Snake

Intelligent and highly intuitive are two of the Snake’s many fine qualities. He makes an amusing and romantic friend with a definite flirtatious streak. When challenged or criticised he can be a sore loser. The Snake is very lucky with money and is fond of the odd bet or two. He is quick-witted and enjoys reading, music and occasionally the paranormal side of life.

Forecast for 2008 The last couple of months of 2007 could have seen a real upswing in social activities for the Snake, leaving him feeling drained and just a little out of sorts. But all Snakes should take heart for the Year of the Rat will prove a very rewarding and creative year for them – providing they think things through and take note of all possible opportunities that come along. In 2008 the Snake should take extra care in financial matters. Although very prudent and careful with money normally, this year the Snake needs to be extra vigilant. Regarding their career, a degree of flexibility will need to be shown, if looking to advance their career or change direction. This will come to the notice of those in a position to help. Many happy times will happen at home this year for Snakes, with both family and friend providing much joy. July to November will be fantastic for socialising.

The Horse

Fun, charming and attractive sums up the Horse’s traits perfectly. They love parties and crowds and being the centre of attention. They can also be egotistical, hotheaded and impatient. The Horse is a considerate and protective friend and partner and when in his company, there will always be excitement around the next corner.

Forecast for 2008 2007 will have ended on a happy and social note for the Horse and he can look forward to more of the same for the Year of the Rat. However, this will be a hectic and demanding year overall for the Horse, which could make him feel unnerved and anxious. It is important for all Horses to remember this year that all challenges are learning experiences and his tenacity and inner strength will see him through all situations. Planning and thinking about the year ahead will prove extremely beneficial to the Horse, providing him with a sense of control and direction. It is also important to make a concerted effort to listen to and get along with work colleagues and friends as ultimately they will be may be able to smooth out any rough patches for the Horse in 2008. March and August are super times for travelling and exciting adventures.

The Goat

Graceful and optimistic, kind and easy going, would describe a Goat personality. They can also be petulant and discontented, likely to throw the towel in at the beginning of a problem. They can be charming without revealing their true feelings. The Goat is very talented and imaginative and can turn his hand to most creative pursuits.

Forecast for 2008 The Year of the Rat will be a year of great accomplishments for the Goat, if he can go about things in an orderly, organised and detail manner. For the creative Goat, and there are many of these, wonderful ideas and exciting projects are sure to emerge in 2008. There will be quite a few wonderful social opportunities in this year with single Goats finding themselves in great demand! For those Goats seeking work or looking to change careers, having an implicit belief in themselves and showing enthusiasm will bring many interesting offers. Home life is also well starred with pregnancy and happy family events particularly highlighted. Financially, this is a good year, with a lump sum for a creative endeavour or a bequest coming to some Goats. Valued new friendships will made during July and August of 2008.

The Monkey

The Monkey is playful, lively, fun and a quick thinker. They get bored very easily and find it hard to settle down to doing any one thing. The Monkey can also be vain and offhand. They are ambitious and usually very good with investing money. With their quick wit and wonderful sense of humour, they are a great party guest. The Monkey’s life will never be dull and predictable!

Forecast for 2008 The Year of the Rat should be an excellent year for the Monkey with a renewed enthusiasm and determination showing itself early on. Many fine opportunities will present themselves to the Monkey during 2008 and provided he spots them, it can turn into a highly successful and lucrative year. Any inspired ideas or thoughts should be noted as they could garner the Monkey highly prized recognition at work, with financial benefits. It will be very important for him to discuss any concerns or worries he might have throughout the year regarding any matter, as keeping them to himself could result in anxiousness and bad choices. Any opportunities for studying or gaining new skills should be seized. By following cherished hopes and dreams in the Year of the Rat, this could be one of the most memorable years ever, with great good fortune and advancement. August, November and December will provide memorable social opportunities.

The Rooster

The Rooster is always popular, extravagant and creative. They can be brutally honest and generally like being showered with attention. They are wonderfully loyal friends and also give advice freely – whether they are asked for it or not! Family means the world to the Rooster and they are fiercely loyal to those they care about.

Forecast for 2008 The Year of the Rat will be a varied one for the Rooster, but if he sticks to what he knows and what he’s best at, it will go a lot more smoothly. This is not a year for any financial gambles and sensible spending and careful budgeting will avoid hardships. Keeping focussed and determined will help all Roosters who feel unfulfilled and unhappy in their jobs. While it won’t be easy to change jobs, there is a strong possibility they may come to the attention of someone influential who may be able to help. Socially, it will be a busy and entertaining year, although there is a note of caution. Gossiping and indiscretions need to be avoided at all costs, as they could be extremely damaging to the Rooster. With all of this going on in his life, home will provide a safe haven and every opportunity should be taken to spend quality time with loved ones and dear friends. April to August will prove particularly lucky, with a little effort from the Rooster.

The Dog

The Dog is wonderfully hard worker, a perfectionist and someone who loves the small details. He is also a bit anti-social, pessimistic and stubborn. They are one of the most honest and loyal signs of the Chinese zodiac and will always go to bat for a worthy cause. The Dog is a fantastic listener and his advice is usually very intuitive.

Forecast for 2008 The focus for 2008 will be on career advancement and positive financial aspects for the Dog. An unexpected job offer or change in direction will most certainly come up during the Year of the Rat and will greatly delight the Dog. With careful planning, their financial situation could greatly improve this year, providing security and a chance to make improvements or investments on the home front. Many Dogs will decide to get married or have a child this year, with love being wonderfully highlighted. As with some other Zodiac animals, fascinating opportunities need to be seized before they are gone – the Dog needs to remain alert and enthusiastic at all times in 2008. Friendship is important for the Dog this year and it may be in their best interest to get out and about to meet new friends – such as joining a club or association that would interest them. Only their efforts will make 2008 the memorable year it can be. June and October will be very happy times romantically.

The Pig

The Pig is an innocent, sweet and lovable personality. They can also be quite melancholy and over-sensitive. The Pig loves the company of others, and adores parties, gossip and chit chat. They are highly intelligent, but prefer to keep this side of their nature under wraps. The Pig does not care that much for money, but is one of the zodiac signs that is very lucky.

Forecast for 2008 At the end of 2007, the end of his own Pig year, there will be much fun and happiness with increased social contact and romance. On the other hand, the Year of the Rat signifies a new cycle for the whole Zodiac, which the Pig may find highly unsettling – they are not partial to change. However, by taking a deep breath and going with the flow, 2008 can be a successful and interesting year for all Pigs. Much attention needs to be paid to legal matters, financial details and any paperwork – be vigilant and careful in all dealings to avoid upset. Also, the Pig needs to be extremely selective in who he confides in. A lot of personal soul searching and decisions will also be made this year, with support of family and friends proving valuable and helpful. May and August will be important months for career advancement.

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