Neil Somerville - Your Chinese Horoscope for Each and Every Year

They should also make sure their social life does not suffer. Tiger years offer some lively and sometimes surprising times. Lonely and unattached Rats can make some important friends, although with romance it could be best to proceed steadily rather than rush into a commitment. That way, the relationship can develop in a meaningful and significant way.

While the Tiger year will bring some special times, some Rats could, however, be called upon to help a loved one or close friend in a difficult situation. While this may be worrying, their support and ability to empathize can make an important difference. Rats have wonderful people skills and should not underestimate the good they can do.

Domestically, a lot is set to happen and there will need to be good cooperation and communication between everyone in the Rat household. Here the Rat’s attentiveness and inclusive nature can be of considerable value. Sharing activities and concerns will help, as will spreading out practical projects over the year rather than rushing them or concentrating them all in a short space of time. Tiger years require a certain flexibility.

In general, the Tiger year will be active and challenging, and Rats may be uncomfortable with some of the fast-moving developments. But there are chances to be grasped, lessons to be learned, opportunities to be developed and travel and shared activities to be enjoyed. Determined and ever-resourceful, Rats have the ability to turn a lot to their advantage.

Tips for the Year

Engage, adapt and make the most of unfolding situations. Be careful in money matters, but if you can, take advantage of travel opportunities and seize any chances to extend your skills and your personal interests.

Rat Fortunes in the Year of the Rabbit

This can be a reasonable year for Rats, but there is a ‘but’. Rats like to involve themselves in many activities and in the Rabbit year they could feel constrained. This year is conducted at a steadier pace and along structured lines, and Rats will have to adapt accordingly. This is not a time to rock the boat or forge ahead regardless.

However, while the Rabbit year’s slower pace may not suit the Rat’s style, there is still much to be gained from it. In particular, it can be an excellent time for Rats to evaluate their lifestyle and undertake some personal development. Particularly for those who lead busy and pressured existences, this will be a good year to strive for a better lifestyle balance. Rats should not feel they have to be on the go all the time. Occasionally they deserve a respite. And the Rabbit year encourages this.

Rabbit years also favour learning and personal growth, and Rats should consider ways in which they could further their interests as well as try out any new recreational pursuits that appeal to them, including any that have a keep-fit element. Rats who enjoy creative activities could see their ideas developing in particularly encouraging ways.

At work, rather than looking too far ahead, Rats should focus on their current duties and make the most of where they are. By working closely with their colleagues, networking and using their experience to advantage, they can considerably enhance their reputation. They can also benefit from training opportunities. Those seeking work will find that highlighting their willingness to learn may prove significant. Work-wise, Rats can impress this year, but do need to demonstrate their strengths. Progress may not be swift or necessarily substantial, but the Rabbit year does reward commitment and will prepare Rats for future opportunities.

In money matters, this is a year for care. At times, spending levels could creep up and outgoings be greater than anticipated. During the year Rats should keep track of their outgoings as well as carefully check the terms of any new agreements and commitments they enter into. Financially, it is a time to remain vigilant and thorough.

On a personal level, however, the Rabbit year can bring some memorable times. In many Rat homes there could be celebrations in store as the family increases in numbers, whether through birth or marriage. As always, Rats will be keen to support those dear to them and be proud of their achievements. Many Rats will make a deliberate effort to spend more time with those close to them this year. And their home life will benefit from this improved lifestyle balance.

Rats will also appreciate the social opportunities of the year and, with their personable nature, will add to their network of friends and contacts. As has been found, the more people you know, the more you benefit, and this is very true for Rats. This year some of the people they meet can not only offer friendship but also be of help with both current and future activities. However, while good times can be had, Rats do need to be attentive to the needs of others and, if in a potentially difficult or fraught situation, watch their words. An ill-timed comment or criticism could prove awkward. At times, despite their forthright tendencies (Rats do like to say what they think), they will find that greater tact will not go amiss.

Overall, Rats need to keep alert, join with others and consider their actions and responses carefully. This is no year for rushing or being too independent-minded, but one for making the most of current opportunities and building on experience. On a personal level, all Rats will benefit from a more balanced lifestyle and there could be some memorable (and celebratory) occasions to enjoy as well.

Tips for the Year

Be patient. Rather than try to rush ahead, enjoy the present. Spend time on your interests, develop your skills and value those around you. It is a year to appreciate what you have and strive for a better lifestyle balance.

Rat Fortunes in the Year of the Dragon

Dragon years have energy and a certain vibrancy, which appeals to Rats. And they are set to do well this year and be helped along the way by a certain amount of good fortune. Indeed, once they decide on a course of action, serendipity will often kick in and assist them. For any Rats who are nursing disappointment or feel they have been languishing of late (the previous Rabbit year will not have been the easiest), this is a time to draw a line under what has gone before and concentrate on the present. Important corners can be turned and, for some, the Dragon year can mark the start of an exciting new phase.

Rats attach much importance to their relations with others and can benefit from the support and encouragement of many this year. When considering plans or taking decisions, they can often be assisted in significant ways by talking to those they trust. Knowing they have this backing can be an encouraging factor and give impetus to certain endeavours. However, while Rats can profit from support and goodwill, they do need to ensure others don’t take advantage of their willing nature or place excessive demands on them. This is a risk this year. If they do feel too much is being asked of them, they should stand their ground and resist being imposed upon.

They will, though, appreciate the many social opportunities of the year. Dragon years can be lively and offer a lot to do. Any Rats who are lonely or have had recent adversity will find that new friends and activities can help brighten their prospects. Romantic prospects are excellent and Cupid’s arrow will be aimed in the direction of many Rats who start the year unattached.

Home life can be busy and eventful, especially as many Rats will enthusiastically start on improvement projects as well as assist loved ones in ambitious undertakings. However, with so much happening, they will need to liaise well with others. Making assumptions or rushing activities could lead to some awkward moments. Rats, take note and allow time for your projects rather than moving along at a heady pace.