After two Fire years, life may seem calmer during this Earth year. That could be deceptive, however, as the Rat never stops moving - especially when it comes to mental activity.

Unfortunately, Earth has a destructive relationship with the Rat's fixed element, Water. This is not disastrous, but it does mean you should not rely too much on luck this year.

On the other hand, the combination of Earth and Rat means this is extremely positive year for achieving results. The Rat tends to take a lot of risks, while Earth is associated with practicality and stability. This creates balance and can lead to good profits, increased productivity and all other accomplishments. Additionally, under Earth's influence there could be fewer scandals than in other, Rat, years.

The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese zodiac and signifies new beginnings. That makes this year an appropriate time to start new ventures and break new ground. This includes new ideas, directions and ways of doing things. It is a time to experiment and put plans into action, as there will be plenty of opportunities to achieve success. Remember that things began during this year are likely to have long term consequences, so choose your actions wisely to enrich your life.

Good year for thinking
This year is also an equally good time for thinking and all manner of intellectual endeavours. Planning, scholarship and research, for example, are favourable activities. It is also an auspicious time for the arts; although, under Earth's influence, applied arts such as design and graphics may do best.

Earth favours those who are tied to the land, do a lot of routine work, deal with practical matters or perform work of a spiritual nature. Based on the characteristics of both Earth and Rat, it could be a very good year for those with careers in business, construction, engineering, academia, planning and the clergy.

There is likely to be a focus on career and self-improvement this year, to the detriment of family. Therefore, you need to be attentive and creative so that the family area of your does not suffer. It is, however, a relatively good time to begin a new romance. Those in a relationship may want to consider raising it to the next level, including marriage.

Since this is an Earth year, those people born in a Metal year will generally fare better than others of their animal sign, while those born in a Water year are likely to do worse than those born in Wood, Fire, and Earth years.

Health issues vary not only by sign, but also by individual. Your best bet is to visit a Chinese doctor to have your balances checked and get personalised advice for the coming year. It is an Earth year, so one thing we can say in general is to get enough exercise and be on the alert for unwanted weight gains. Inactivity could lead to problems.

In closing, 2008 will be a year of possibilities, a time of progress - although not very spectacular. Those who take the biggest risks could be disappointed. Everyone should, nevertheless, add something new to their life during this year of fruitful new beginnings.

Don't know your sign? Find it here

• Rat
• Ox
• Tiger
• Rabbit
• Dragon
• Snake
• Horse
• Goat
• Monkey
• Rooster
• Dog
• Pig

Rat

The Rat year may not be as good to you as the kindly Pig year, especially since it is an Earth year and Earth drains your Rat luck. Making favourable deals, for example, will be more challenging. It should still be a good year for you, as you have eight good months ahead of you. If you avoid risk and rely on hard work to get ahead, you most likely will. You may get off to a slow start, but the latter part of the year will present more and better opportunities - so be patient.

Career: This is the year of your namesake Chinese animal sign. If you are seeking career advancement, the time could be perfect. On the other hand, if you feel that your present job has grown stale and you yearn for a different flavour of cheese, it may also be the time to move on. Presentation of new ideas or projects, mixed with your enthusiastic and conscientious style, should impress upper management.

Relationships: In your personal relationships, there seems to be a tendency towards growth and expansion of your social circle. There is a chance that a recent acquaintance or a newly formed friendship could develop into a serious love affair. There is also a good possibility that you will be able to get plenty of enjoyment from both your family and social life this year. Try to make it a point to accept as many invitations as you can, especially to weddings. This is also a very auspicious time to marry, if you are so inclined.

Health: This year should be smooth sailing for your health as the Earth element brings stability to your overall physical well-being. One caveat though, as you will most likely be feeling stronger, you might try and push yourself a little too hard in one of your many schemes or money-making projects. This could result in you getting sick or having an accident, especially if you are doing any manual labour. Be vigilant when travelling, especially out of the country.

Wealth: Rats may need to stay on their toes in order not to miss opportunities to expand their bank accounts. These possible opportunities might reveal themselves in the form of conservative investments. As the Earth element favours practicality and conservatism, your long-term savings and retirement investments could also show gains. However, you might be hit with some costly home repairs or improvements, so it would be a good idea to stick to your budgets.

Ox

Fifty-two per cent favourable may not look that great, but it does represent an improvement over last year. You should have as many opportunities as disappointments. Take care to exercise good judgment, and you will do fine. Unfortunately, it is an Earth year and the Earth drains Ox luck. This is not the time to take risks, especially those that are unnecessary or can be avoided. Hard work is more your style any way. The first six months are likely to be the most challenging, so be patient.

Career: In the year of the Earth Rat, there could be opportunities for you to advance your career. However, advancement will probably come with a catch. It seems that you might have to change your tactics because your rock steady and workman-like effort on the job will most probably go unnoticed. If you wish to be promoted, especially to a position of authority, you may have to make a bold move, advocate your ideas and augment your skills so that higher-ups will notice the kind of quality work that you have been putting in.

Relationships: Transitioning from career to your relationships, this year's Earth element is in agreement with your Oxen personality of steadiness and conservatism. Your strength as a shoulder to cry on and moral support could win you new friends this year. However, that same characteristic could see you used or even worse betrayed in your relationships under the influence of the cunning Rat year. One bright spot may lay in your family relationships, as they might offer you a measure of unconditional love.

Health: Your relationships could have a direct bearing on your health this year. As with your relationships, your health could be on a roller-coaster ride. If you become stressed-out from work or your personal life, your mind and body could be weakened. In addition, if you are not open to change, your stubbornness could deplete your immune system, allowing a minor sniffle to turn into a full-blown cold.

Wealth: Although your health could be rather unstable, your money matters should be more solid and promising. If you own your own business, chances are high that you could see an increase in sales or a decrease in debt. If you have stuck to a conservative budget or investment strategy, you might see your disciplined efforts bring forth financial fruit. In addition, you might encounter good fortune with found money, as an unexpected bonus, court award or monetary winnings.

Tiger

The Rat year is likely to present more challenges than the Pig year, for you. Do not be surprised if you occasionally find you cannot get your way this year. In fact there are likely to be many of clashes of wills. The better you can keep your emotions under control, the more likely you are to achieve your goals. The Rat is comfortable with logic, not passion. You will have to pick your battles carefully, as you probably will not be blessed with many, good opportunities.

Career: In the year of the Earth Rat, you could feel like you are treading water or running on the spot and your progress up the chain of command could be hampered. The plans you put into motion this year could be met with obstacles and delays. The same emotion and courage that hastened your way up the ranks could prove to be your undoing. Focusing on additional training, letting go of the reins or learning to work in groups may be a better option for you this year.

Relationships: Although your career sector could be in an unfavourable position, your social life may make up for the turmoil. Your best option this year socially is to get together with people who share your same interests or hobbies. Social networking events and organised groups are a good way to meet new people. You should be able to garner much love and support from your family and friends. The only bump in the road may come in your relationships, as your aggressive approach may not find favour in the conservative Earth element year.

Health: As your social life fares well, there seems to be a very high likelihood that your emotional health could follow the same path. On the other hand, those Tigers that hunger to conquer more things than your body can handle could find themselves susceptible to sickness or injury. In addition, too much work and non-physical activity could have your Tiger physique resembling that of the Pig.

Wealth: Although your health could improve from extra activity, your wealth could suffer from too much risk. Keep a careful eye on your budget, and watch expenses, as over-extending yourself could result in painful shortfalls at the end of each month. It is a good idea to review your long-term financial plan, or to write out a financial plan if you do not have one.

Rabbit

The scratchy Rat often takes the Rabbit out of its comfort zone. So, this year is likely to be a lot more challenging than last year, especially since the Fire Pig year is one of your most favourable. The middle months of the year are likely to be the toughest. Although you want to avoid risk throughout the year, it is especially important during those months. You will best be able to take advantage of the good times if you can keep your emotions under control, especially when things don't go your way.

Career: This year of the Earth Rat may see a mixed bag for you career-wise. Your job could be frustrating, as the Rat's energy could cause delays and mix-ups for you. However, some progress and expansion is possible, as the Earth element promotes growth for the Wood element, which is native to your Rabbit sign. There may also be opportunities for those who seek a change in careers. Relationships with your colleagues could also pose a problem, especially if you get involved in office politics and gossip.

Relationships: While life at work might prove to be somewhat unfavourable for you, your domestic situation could well make up for turmoil on the job front. Your time is best spent with loved ones engaging in your favourite activities or just plain relaxing. In times of stress, your loved ones could prove to be your best ally. You are likely to find a new romantic interest, but try to take things slowly to avoid any disappointments in love - especially if you are not single! Friends might not be able to hold up their end of the bargain. Be emotionally prepared just in case.

Health: The optimistic outlook from your relationships does not seem to carry over to your health. The fast-paced action from the Rat year could play havoc with your delicate Rabbit constitution. Your jangled nerves may cause you to be more accident-prone than normal. You may want to take more precautions, like being a little more alert and conscious of your environment. It is a good idea to bolster your immune system by getting plenty of exercise.

Wealth: Along the same lines as your health, your wealth situation may have a dim outlook. Be vigilant in this year of the Rat, as you could be an easy target for swindlers and con men. When taking financial advice from others, it would be best to stick to people with whom you had a previous relationship with and can trust. The bright spot of the year is that long-term investment such as a purchase for your home will bring you a good return.

Dragon

Hopefully the Pig showered blessings on you last year. If not, don't worry. This year promises to be even better with your good friend the Rat in charge. You could enjoy success but this is still not the best of years, as Earth does not favour your luck. This is a year for avoiding risk. As a Dragon, you could be something of a dreamer. If so, this is the perfect year for you, since Earth promotes practicality. This means you have a good chance of realising one of your big dreams.

Career: The year of the Rat seems to smile on your career. Chances for advancement may be there for the taking if you can come up with something imaginative that will breathe life into your ideas. If you are open to change, your willing spirit and adaptive style could win you big points with those in authority. A certain colleague could become an unexpected ally so be sure to stay alert to the work of those around you and find ways to get other people involved in your projects.

Relationships: The good-will of the Rat towards your career sector will probably overflow into your relationships. If you are able to come down from your lofty perch and express your emotions and love to your friends and family, many happy moments will likely follow. The Earth element of this year favours family, humble actions and heart-felt gestures. Your social life should be rather active. Single Dragons could find their soul mate, or at least a little romance, as this is a very auspicious year for love.

Health: You may feel like you are getting a double shot of espresso with the combined energies of your very active social life and the high-octane fuel that is derived from the year of the Rat. One word of caution: Although you may feel like a superhero, you are definitely not one. Take the same precautions that a normal human being would.

Wealth: Although your health is in very good shape, your financial fitness may not quite be at the same level, as the Earth element favours conservative actions over risky ones this year. If you are considering making a major purchase for you home, this seems to be a very favourable time to proceed with such actions. Striving to improve your financial contacts and networks could be profitable. Try not to overlook financial planning and savings.

Snake

This year promises to be a vast improvement over the last one. You are likely, for example, to experience exciting mental stimulation. If you use your brains you can produce some very good results in most areas of your life. Almost every month will provide opportunities, although you might want to take it easy right after the Chinese New Year. Next year should be even better, so you should take time to make plans and begin projects to be completed then.

Career: The fast paced energy given off by the year of the Rat creates a dynamic career environment for the Snake. This spark of energy could inspire the Snake with new and creative ideas resulting in many opportunities. However, in order to take advantage of such opportunities, you may have to take some quick and decisive action. If you are bored with your present work situation, this is a good time to seek greener pastures.

Relationships: The good vibrations that the year of the Rat gave off to your career sector should overflow into your relationships. Your most memorable moments this year will be the intimate ones shared with family and friends. An active social life should be fuelled by the almost endless energy of the fast-talking and highly social Rat year. Single Snakes have a wonderful chance to find love and romance, or maybe just one great fling.

Health: All the energy spent in your career and relationships could have a negative impact on your health. Your best bet to stay healthy could be to get in plenty of exercise and engage in some of your favourite leisure activities. You may also be able to further reduce your stress levels and increase your health levels if you are a little bit less secretative with your family members and friends.

Wealth: Your finances seem to be on track to make some healthy improvements. If you have suffered some financial setbacks, you may be able to make a monetary comeback of sorts in the year of the ever-resourceful Rat. Attempt to steer well clear of expensive purchases, especially impulse buys. You will most likely suffer from buyer?s remorse right after making a large purchase. Under the Earth element, conservative investments may show some profits.

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.

Monkey

The Monkey, of the 12 signs, is the one most likely to have the best year. Fortune smiles upon you with your big Rat friend in charge. If you are a typical, mentally quick and multi-talented Monkey, opportunities there will be aplenty. There is only one, major concern: The Achilles heal of both the Monkey and Rat is overconfidence. This could make you forget that the Tiger rules the first month and won't do you any favours. As good as the year is, therefore, a slow start is advisable.

Career: Go with your heart and follow your instincts with your projects at hand. It is likely that your ideas will be rewarded this year so do your best to see each idea through in its entirety. Be careful to avoid hopping around with too many ideas, as lack of focus will derail even the best laid plans. You will see rewards when working closely with colleagues who exhibit similar ideas. Don't be afraid to trust their instincts as well.

Relationships: Your social life should be very active this year. If you're married, you'll find yourself, more than ever, wanting to be with your spouse in a more active, social environment. This enhanced activity could lead to an addition in the family so if you're not ready, be careful! The single Monkey should expect to find an abundance of opportunities. This could be the year to play more than settle down. Networking is at a peak so look for new groups to join where you can build both your knowledge and your network.

Health: Your chi levels should be persistently higher throughout the course of the year. This means a year of generally good health. You should see progress on any existing long-term illness as well. Take this as an opportunity to increase your care and further your progress. With increased activity and social life, just make sure you get some rest along the way and do not get too caught up in the party scene!

Wealth: Finances should be generally good this year. Expect to see positive changes from 2007, as the year of the Earth Rat should be more stable for you. Keep in mind, though, it is not a great year for speculative investment so stick with what you know best and be ready to grind out some good work. This is one of those years that bodes well for savings and those savings could pay off big in the years to come.

Rooster

In general, none of the Rooster's traits appeal to, or are well tolerated by the Rat. After the Horse, the Rooster is the sign most likely to have a challenging year. There will, nevertheless, be a few opportunities. A co-operative attitude, and winning allies are likely to be keys to your success. On the other hand, if you succumb to the Rooster propensity for arguing and quarrels, you could have a very difficult time. It is up to you to minimise the damage by displaying the right attitude.

Career: Progress may be a little slow on the career front this year. Do not despair when plans go astray and be especially careful not to over-react to your colleagues when they do. Take time to understand the roots of your problems and use your sharp mind, not your tongue, to resolve them. If you wish to be successful in a more challenging year, you will need the support of your co-workers and your superiors. This is definitely not a year to go it alone. Mental stimulation is high this year, so be sure to seek out training opportunities.

Relationships: The energies of the year are not as conducive to relationship success for you. The single Rooster needs to take care not to rush into anything new this year, as things may not always be quite what they seem. Your social life will be fun, although you must be careful not to do anything too crazy and get yourself caught up in a situation you do not want to be in. The Rooster in a relationship needs to take care and avoid missteps, as small problems have the potential to erupt into larger, uncontrollable ones this year.

Health: As it is not the best year for relationships, you must be particularly careful when the added stressed caused from relationship problems could be detrimental to your health. The best thing for you to do this year is stay active and use the physical activities to reduce the added stress levels you are experiencing. Remember, the mindset of the Rat can be particularly aggravating to a Rooster, so take care of yourself.

Wealth: If you have not already created a budget for the year, now is the time to do it. When you do, make sure to plan for the unexpected as heavy expense may occur and have you dipping into your hard earned savings. Take care when shopping and spending, as the temptation for something new could come back to bite you down the road.

Dog

This year may be a bit more challenging than the last, but it still has the potential to be very favourable. The Dog is more comfortable with the Pig, which symbolises endings, rather than the Rat, which is associated with new beginnings. If you are willing to leave your comfort zone, you can make significant progress towards your objectives and also achieve one or more notable successes. As with most things, your attitude is likely to determine just how well you do.

Career: If you have been considering a change in occupation, this could be the year to try something different. This is a time for action, not delay, so be decisive whether it is change you seek, or simply advancement in your current role. Spend time promoting yourself and your skills and make sure that those above you on the company ladder are able to recognise the good things you are doing this year. Your coworkers will be more valuable than ever this year, so pay close attention to what they have to say to you.

Relationships: You will find the most comfort in your family relationships this year, be it with your parents, children or loved one. There is a chance someone in your immediate circle will need a good friend and you will need to find the time to step up and take care of them. The single Dog will find good fun and mental stimulation this year. You should have plenty of chances to meet new friends and explore new love interests.

Health: Be alert for signs of increased stress or burnout. This will be an active year for you, which means you are at an increased risk for physical injury. Always be sure to exercise proper caution when out and about and you should be just fine. Your health, in general, should be good as long as you avoid stress related issues.

Wealth: You should see a significant improvement in your financial situation this year. There is a good chance that the Year of the Earth Rat will be favourable towards your new savings plans and investment decisions. Your tendency to trust those around you too much might get you in trouble, this year. The wisest thing to do when considering a financial decision involving someone you trust is to get a second opinion.

Pig

Major improvement is likely to be in store for you this year. It's ironic that the environment is likely to be more unsettling, while simultaneously providing more opportunities for success. A mental adjustment is required to maximise your potential. Although the Pig tends to look to the future, even to retirement, your focus should be squarely on the present. The future is now. Be alert for favourable situations and make the most of them.

Career: Be wary of changes on the job this year. As you are likely to see increased success, your best bet on the job is to stay focused on the projects you have been working on and make sure you drive them to completion. When you begin new projects, be sure to get the support of your colleagues and management. They will be instrumental to your success on the job. You will find that the work environment is more comfortable this year and that the people around you will appreciate your experience and talent.

Relationships: Family time will be precious this year. You will find yourself wanting to do more with your significant other, and patch up any conflicts created last year. Your social life will be active and fun, whether you are hanging out on the single front or relaxing with your loved one. The single Pig will find plenty of opportunities during the Year of the Earth Rat. If you are single, set aside a little more time for your social life and accept a few more offers to go out. You may find that love is in the air - along with a new career connection or two.

Health: Changes in your life may be a bit unsettling for you. The pace of the year also poses some risk to your health and well-being. Be sure to avoid any risky physical activity as this is probably not the year to attempt your first mountain climb or scuba dive. You should take a slow, cautious approach to your daily life. Your general energy level will be positive this year and you should have no problem maintaining your health.

Wealth: The second half of the Year of the Rat should be much better for you than the first. Exercise caution with your spending and make it a point to think twice about any potential purchases. You will be best served to maintain a budget this year and stick to it. You could have real problems with money if you are not careful and become tempted by the slick sales person type with offers that are not as good as they sound.