Neil Somerville - Your Chinese Horoscope for Each and Every Year

26 January 2009–13 February 2010 — Earth Ox

12 February 2021–31 January 2022 — Metal Ox

31 January 2033–18 February 2034 — Water Ox

The Personality of the Ox

For thousands of years mankind has valued the strength of Oxen. Reliable and hard-working, they can be depended upon and many of their sterling qualities are also found in those born under the Ox sign.

True to their word, Oxen are redoubtable figures. Never half-hearted, when they commit themselves to something, they like to see it through. They are also no-nonsense sorts and, favouring tradition, stick to the tried and tested. New methods, gimmicks and constantly changing from one thing to another are not for them. Instead, they are practical, methodical and thorough. They aim to do things well. However, being self-willed, they can also be stubborn, and changing an Ox’s mind once it has been made up is no easy task.

Oxen are also very thoughtful and consider their words and actions carefully. Indeed, when in company, they tend to be reserved and do not open up easily. They have a small but close circle of trusted friends and these friendships will have formed over a long time, with some dating back to childhood. Similarly, in matters of the heart, Oxen like to be sure before they commit themselves and their romances are often long and protracted. Here again they take their responsibilities seriously and are very loyal to and protective of those who are dear to them. In the home, though, they do like to make most of the decisions and will strive to run a well-ordered and efficient household. If anyone slacks off or annoys them in some way, they will be sure to let them know. When rankled (which is rare), they can have a formidable temper.

Oxen like to proceed steadily and surely in most areas of life and when they have chosen a career, they are likely to remain with it, becoming ever more proficient as the years go by. While not outwardly ambitious or materialistic, they like to establish themselves in a certain field of work and take pride in what they do. In many a workplace, their solid nature, know-how and work ethic are greatly valued by their colleagues, with many taking on a more managerial role in later life. They can make good leaders and, with their high standards, also be hard taskmasters. They can find fulfilment in specialist areas where mastery of detail is important. Engineering, design, education and the law could appeal, and with their ability to use their hands, they can also make skilled technicians, surgeons and dentists. Oxen have an affinity with the outdoors, and farming and horticulture could also appeal to them. Another gift and passion can be music – some Oxen are to be found enjoying distinguished careers as musicians or composers.

In matters of finance, Oxen are cautious and manage their situation well. They like to consider their purchases carefully. They do not tend to overindulge and are good providers, making sure their own needs and those of their loved ones are well met. When saving or investing, Oxen prefer more traditional routes, including those offering a set return, rather than speculating. However, should situations ever go against them (financial or otherwise), they can feel it deeply. They are poor losers and regard failure as a personal affront. But in time, they are sure to make good. Resolute, persevering and objective, Oxen are doers and survivors.

They are also very much ‘take me as you find me’ sorts and do not tend to be flamboyant or showy in nature. It is because they are down to earth and unpretentious that so many hold them in high regard. You know where you stand with them. The female Ox tends to be more outgoing than the male, but, like him, she has a mind of her own, knows what – and who – she likes and sets about her activities in an efficient and organized way. She has a practical disposition and could also have a deep interest in the arts and be talented in certain areas. Both male and female Oxen value family life and regard their home as a private sanctuary for them and their loved ones, as well as a buffer from the sometimes crazy world outside. As parents, Oxen are caring and encouraging as well as inspirational teachers, but are also strong on discipline.

The patient and measured ways of Oxen mean they sometimes hold back and may appear distant and aloof. They certainly do not lower their guard easily and take time before they feel at ease in the company of other people. However, they are loyal, sincere and dependable, and it is because of these qualities, together with their commitment and hard work, that they often do well in life. Napoleon Bonaparte, himself an Ox, once declared, ‘Victory belongs to the persevering,’ and Oxen are certainly persevering. Slowly, steadily and patiently, they are capable of achieving a great deal – and doing so in their own way and often on their own terms.

Top Tips for Oxen

You are a private individual and like to keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself. You do not readily engage in idle chatter. However, your reserved nature can sometimes deny others the chance of seeing the depth and warmth of your true personality. Try to open up more, for you could gain so much from interacting with those around you on a deeper level and from networking and allowing others to get to know you. Aim to be more visible so you can be appreciated more.

You take your responsibilities seriously and work long and hard. But it is important that you give yourself the chance to enjoy the fruits of your endeavours. Quality time with your loved ones and time spent relaxing and on pleasurable pursuits can do you a lot of good as well as help you to be at your best.

You may favour tradition and have set views and interests, but, rather than distrust change, do consider the advantages it can bring. Adapting, learning and exploring new areas can open up a whole new world. Venture out from time to time!

You do not like to fail, so set about your activities cautiously and carefully. This may mean you don’t always make the most of chances or fully explore your talents and ideas. Have faith in yourself and be bold. Oliver Wendell Holmes, an Ox, wrote, ‘Many people die with their music still in them.’ You have so much to give that you do need to make sure you use your gifts and talents fully. Life can be all the more fulfilling (and potentially successful) as a result.

Relations with Others

With a Rat

The Ox likes the Rat’s warm and personable nature and relations between them are generally good.

In work, each will recognize and value the strengths of the other and together they will make an effective team. The Ox will especially appreciate the Rat’s drive and inventive streak.

In love, these two are well suited. Both value their home life and the Ox will find the Rat supportive and encouraging and value the colour they bring into their life. A close and often successful match.

With another Ox

There may be respect and understanding between these two, but both are independent-minded and like to have their own way. Relations could at times be problematic.

In work, both are cautious, favour tradition and are also very hard-working. If they can unite in a common aim, their tenacity and sense of purpose can deliver some good results.

In love, two Oxen will seek security and stability, but, as both are strong-willed and forthright, differences of opinion could prove awkward. Also, there is a risk they could become set in their ways. With care, however, these two can unite and make their relationship work.

With a Tiger

The Ox, who values stability and keeping things on an even keel, will feel ill at ease with the irrepressible Tiger and relations between the two will be difficult.

In work, the cautious Ox could consider the Tiger colleague rash and impulsive. Sooner or later their styles will clash.