2008 CHINESE OVERVIEW

Horse

Alas, the Horse is the sign that fares least well in the year of the Rat. Still, the year will not be without opportunities. The trick will be to force yourself to rely more on your head than your heart. That is contrary to the Horse nature, so it won't be easy. The first month of the year could be your best one. Given this, it's important for you to make smart moves as soon as the New Year's partying is over. A quick start is especially important, as the last three months could be very challenging.

Career: Your difficult year will probably extend into your career as well. You will find that projects will become a bit more difficult and delays could be the norm. The Year of the Earth Rat is better suited for planning as opposed to doing, so you should keep your focus on the long term and look forward to the latter portion of the year. While you typically favour your independence, this is a good year for you to really take a step back and allow yourself to rely on the group for support. While you may experience some bumps in the road, you have many opportunities to learn. Consider furthering your work-related knowledge.

Relationships: Tough times at work might cause you to seek solitude. Again, letting your guard down, especially with those who love you, is one way you will find happiness. Family time will be the most rewarding part of the year for you, so you should go out of your way to include them in your activities. Relationships may cause you some distress, especially if your loved one is also of the Rat, Monkey or Dragon groups. Do not despair though, you will be best served by exercising patience and understanding the needs of your partner.

Health: Be sure to stay on top of your health. You may experience some signs of decreased energy, especially during the last three months of the year. While you may feel the need to put in extra hours at work, it is important that you do not overdo it and factor in some extra sleep time to allow your body to recuperate. While diet is always important, it's even more so this year. Stick with natural, healthy foods that will help neutralise the periods of low chi.

Wealth: This is definitely not the time for risk taking. You should think twice about expenditures and avoid them if possible. Saving this year should put you in a better position for more opportunistic times ahead. Be wary of anyone asking you for a loan. Small loans are ok if you are comfortable with the chance they might not be repaid.

Goat

After what was probably a very favourable, Pig year, this year might seem like a disaster. It is important, however, for you to understand that you are still looking at five favourable months. There will thus be plenty of opportunities if you do not get down and let negative emotions get the best of you. Your natural inclination is most likely to follow your heart, but you will do much better this year if you can let your head dictate your actions.

Career: Your management may be pressuring you this year to work even more. You can find spots for advancement and make progress on your work if you stay diligent with the tasks at hand. The biggest drawback to your year is the pressure on you, and your inclination to say yes and take on more work than you can handle. Be rational about your workload and don't be scared to say no if the load is too much to bear.

Relationships: For the single Goat, the Year of the Earth Rat could lead to the blossoming of true love. You may find that temptation to date more than one person falls on you in more than one instance. However, existing relationships could be problematic. Be careful not to be overly trusting or you'll wind up hurt later. At the same time, be wary of rumours and gossip, as they will lead to unnecessary arguments.

Health: Work could be the drain on you, and the more you are inclined to overwork yourself, the more likely you will be to experience increased stress levels and exposure to illness. While this advice is always good, it is even more so this year under the influence of the Earth element. Do your best to not get down on yourself when things don't go your way. Overall, the year should be one of good health if you take the typical steps towards proper maintenance.

Wealth: Your finances should be looking up this year. Earth years are good years for saving and planning which bodes well for those that keep a conservative mindset. You may be due for a surprise during one of your down months that could turn out to be unpleasant. Make sure you've tucked away enough to cover the costs associated with an unexpected accident or maintenance.