described below, together with the years in which they were exercising their influence. Therefore Oxen born in 1961 are Metal Oxen, Oxen born in 1913 and 1973 are Water Oxen, and so on.
Metal Ox: 1961
This Ox is confident and very strong-willed. He can be blunt and forthright in his views and is not afraid of speaking his mind. He sets about his objectives with a dogged determination, but he can become so involved in his various activities that he can be oblivious to the thoughts and feelings of those around him, and this can sometimes be to his detriment. He is honest and dependable and will never promise more than he can deliver. He has a good appreciation of the arts and usually has a small circle of very good and loyal friends.
Water Ox: 1913, 1973
This Ox has a sharp and penetrating mind. He is a good organizer and sets about his work in a methodical manner. He is not as narrow-minded as some of the other types of Ox and is more willing to involve others in his plans and aspirations. He usually has very high moral standards and is often attracted to careers in public service. He is a good judge of character and has such a friendly and persuasive manner that he usually experiences little difficulty in securing his objectives. He is popular and has an excellent way with children.
Wood Ox: 1925, 1985
The Wood Ox conducts himself with an air of dignity and authority and will often take a leading role in any enterprise in which he becomes involved. He is very self-confident and is direct in his dealings with others. He does, however, have a quick temper and has no hesitation in speaking his mind. He has tremendous drive and willpower and an extremely good memory. He is particularly loyal and devoted to the members of his family and has a most caring nature.
Fire Ox: 1937, 1997
The Fire Ox has a powerful and assertive personality and is a hard and conscientious worker. He holds strong views and has very little patience when things do not go his way. He can also get carried away in the excitement of the moment and does not always take into account the views of those around him. He nevertheless has many leadership qualities and will often reach positions of power, eminence and wealth. He usually has a small group of loyal and close friends and is very devoted to his family.
Earth Ox: 1949, 2009
This Ox sets about everything he does in a sensible and level-headed manner. He is ambitious but also realistic in his aims and is often prepared to work long hours to secure his objectives. He is shrewd in financial and business matters and is a very good judge of character. He has a quiet nature and is greatly admired for his sincerity and integrity. He is also very loyal to his family and friends and his views are often sought.
PROSPECTS FOR THE OX IN 2013
The Year of the Dragon (23 January 2012–9 February 2013) will have been a variable one for the Ox and the closing months will be busy but not without opportunity.
One of the many features of the Dragon year is that a lot happens very quickly and in the remaining months of it the Ox needs to keep his wits about him and be flexible in approach. To be too obtuse or vent his feelings too forcibly could cause problems and undermine some of what he is hoping to do. He needs to tread carefully.
At work many Oxen could face additional pressures. While demanding, these will often give the Ox greater chance to use his judgement and demonstrate his skills, and considerably enhance his reputation in the process. Oxen who are seeking work should remember that Dragon years favour initiative. If they are quick at following up suitable vacancies, quite a few of them could secure a position, even if only a temporary one, before the year’s end.
With many expenses likely in the closing months of the year, the Ox should try to make early provision for these as well as be disciplined in everyday spending.
He can, though, derive much pleasure from his home and social life at this time, and will not only benefit from spending time with family and friends but also from their advice and encouragement. September, December and early January could be particularly active times, and for the unattached, affairs of the heart could add some excitement to the closing months of the Dragon year.
The Year of the Snake begins on 10 February and the Ox will not only feel more comfortable with its more measured pace but can also look forward to making good headway. Snake years suit the Ox’s personality and in this one his prospects are bright.
For Oxen who may start the year nursing disappointment or regret, this is a time to look firmly ahead rather than feel fettered by what has gone before. These Oxen should regard 2013 as the start of a new chapter, one offering scope and possibility.
The Ox’s work situation in particular can present some excellent opportunities. In view of their recent endeavours, many Oxen will be well placed to be considered for a greater role. When opportunities arise, these Oxen should put themselves forward. Also, while the Ox is usually diligent and focused on his duties, he should also make a point of working closely with colleagues and taking the time to build up contacts. His efforts and dependable manner will impress many. Snake years reward effort and application.
For Oxen who feel unfulfilled in their present position as well as those seeking work, again the Snake year can open up important opportunities. By giving careful thought to what they would like to do and investigating possibilities, these Oxen can see some interesting chances arising. To benefit, they need to be active in their quest, but persistence and tenacity will prevail. The positions some obtain will mark a considerable change in their duties and involve a steep learning curve, but a key feature of the Snake year is that it is a time of possibility. February, April, June and November could see particularly encouraging developments.
Snake years also favour learning and if any Ox feels an additional skill or qualification could help his prospects, he should consider setting time aside to acquire this. Whether enrolling on a course, studying online or doing some reading and research by himself, he will find furthering his knowledge and skills can not only be satisfying but also an often valuable investment in himself. For Oxen with specific aspirations, this would be an excellent year to work towards these.
This emphasis on personal development also applies to the Ox’s own interests. Whether he prefers creative pursuits, practical projects or something more outward bound, he can derive much satisfaction from setting himself projects and using his ideas and skills.
Progress at work can help financially and some Oxen will have the chance to supplement their income through a hobby or interest. Hard work and enterprise will be well rewarded this year. However, the Ox should manage his money well, making allowance for his commitments and, if possible, reducing any borrowings. If he is able, he should take advantage of any tax incentives to save or contribute to a pension policy. His prudence and discipline will reward him in future years.
The Ox’s social life is also pleasingly aspected. Although it can be some time before he feels properly at ease with another person, he will find he gels quickly with some people he meets through his interests or work situation and they will soon become part of his trusted social circle. For the unattached, romantic prospects are encouraging and quite a few Oxen will marry or settle down this year. For socializing, March, June to early August and October can be special months.
One cautionary word does need to be sounded, however: the Ox does tend to immerse himself in his various activities and he needs to be careful that this does not cause him to be inattentive or preoccupied when in company. Also, if tired, he should ensure he does not to take out his irritations on others. No year is free of difficult moments and at such times the Ox does need to exercise care and be mindful.
The Ox’s home life will be busy over the year, and with
