strengthening their love for another person.
The need for awareness also applies to domestic situations. Here again, being busy or preoccupied could take its toll. Although the Rat likes to be central to whatever is going on, throughout the year he should consult others and show some flexibility when necessary. When making decisions or dealing with pressures, a joint approach will lead to better solutions. Domestic life can also be greatly helped by spending quality time together. That way, everyone will have the chance to appreciate some of the family news and occasions the Horse year will bring.
At work, the Rat will have plenty of opportunity to use his strengths to advantage and to impress others. At times of pressure or difficulty, his ability both to cope and to find ways round problems will be valued. However, despite his efforts, progress may not always be easy. If promotion opportunities arise or the Rat applies for another position, he could find himself competing against many experienced candidates and it may take considerable effort to make headway.
Rats seeking work will also find the Horse year requires determination. However, the Rat is a survivor, and his resourcefulness and commitment will show through and often enable him to secure a position he can build on in the future. Effort will be needed, but opportunities can arise suddenly and the Rat does need to be alert throughout the year. March, June, September and November could see encouraging work developments.
Throughout the year the Rat can help his situation by seizing any opportunities to add to his skills and working knowledge. Whether at work or in his own time, by developing himself in some way he can do much to strengthen his prospects.
Money matters will, however, need close attention. In 2014 the Rat should be wary of risk and examine the implications carefully if he enters into any new agreement. If he has any questions or doubts, he should seek advice before proceeding. With many outgoings and some expensive plans, he also needs to keep a tight rein over spending and, where possible, make advance provision for some of the larger purchases he has in mind. Good budgeting can make an important difference.
Overall, the Rat will need to be on his mettle in the Horse year. Lack of awareness, preoccupation and risk can all give rise to problems, and effort will be needed to make headway. However, it is during more challenging times that strengths can emerge and the Rat can demonstrate some of his finer qualities this year. His achievements will be well deserved, and by sharing them with others, he will not only enjoy them that much more, but also find that many can be built on in the following, more encouraging Goat year.
The Metal Rat
The Metal element can make a sign more resolute and determined, and this is especially the case with the Metal Rat. Always keen to make the most of himself, he is a doer and has considerable ability and presence. While 2014 will present its obstacles, by taking into account the prevailing conditions and adjusting as required, the Metal Rat can fare reasonably well.
One of the key requirements of the year is awareness. In almost all areas of his life the Metal Rat will need to observe what is going on, listen to others and think carefully about his situation. This is no time to go it alone or take action without adequate thought. Moments of impulsiveness could cost him dear.
In his home life, it is important that the Metal Rat shares any concerns with those close to him. The more liaison and dialogue there is in his household, the better for all. Greater co-operation will also lead to more practical projects in the home being successfully carried through. There may be important events to mark as well, and making arrangements together can help make the occasion more special. This is a year favouring a collective approach. If possible, the Metal Rat should aim to take a holiday with his loved ones too. The latter part of the year could bring additional travel opportunities.
With this likely to be an often busy year, the Metal Rat should also try to keep his lifestyle in balance and allow time for rest and relaxation as well as personal interests. If he feels stressed or that his life is in some way lacking, he should give himself some ‘me time’. Personal interests and relaxing pursuits can do the Metal Rat a lot of good this year.
He should also keep in regular contact with friends and, if invited to social occasions or intrigued by certain events, try to attend. This can be another way to achieve that all-important lifestyle balance. Metal Rats who are alone will find new interests can also be an excellent way to come into contact with others. Late March, April, June, September and December will see the most social activity. However, with the aspects as they are, any Metal Rat who is tempted to stray or take risks with a relationship could find problems occurring. Horse years tend not to be forgiving of personal lapses. Metal Rats, take note.
At work this can be a year of important developments. Although progress may be difficult, there will be the chance for many Metal Rats to develop their role, including taking on other responsibilities or adapting to new procedures and technology. With a willingness to embrace what occurs, they can find some aspects of their work particularly satisfying. Those who start the year feeling staid or disenchanted will particularly welcome the chance to take on more fulfilling duties. Securing promotion may not be easy this year, but the developments that do occur will often give the Metal Rat the chance to widen his role.
Metal Rats who are seeking work or looking to change employer will need to remain determined and persistent. With the number of vacancies often limited, these Metal Rats will need to emphasize their skills, experience and willingness to learn. Their communication skills can be very much to their advantage, however, and many will eventually secure a new and satisfying position. March, June, late August, September and November could see encouraging developments, but this is a year requiring effort and the willingness to adapt.
The Metal Rat will also need to handle his finances with care, including keeping a watch on outgoings and making early and ample allowance for obligations and more expensive plans. Financially, this is a time for discipline and the avoidance of risk. Throughout the year, if the Metal Rat has concerns over a financial matter, he should check the details and, if appropriate, obtain professional advice.
Overall, the Metal Rat will need to be thorough and careful this year and avoid acting too independently. With support, advice and good liaison with others, he will find problems can be considerably eased. He should also allow time to consider his approach rather than act in haste. But while the year will bring its pressures, the Metal Rat can still accomplish a great deal. Developing his skills and interests can be satisfying and often lead to other opportunities, especially in the following and more auspicious Goat year. The Horse year may be challenging for the Metal Rat, but its lessons can be considerable.
Tip for the Year
Be thorough and disciplined. With effort, awareness and support, you will have more chance of benefiting from the developments that will take place. Care and commitment are required this year.
The Water Rat
The Water Rat has a highly intuitive nature and is particularly adept at gauging situations and the feelings of others. This skill will stand him in good stead this year. It will be a demanding one for him, but by adapting as required, he can help both his present and future prospects.
Throughout the year it is important that the Water Rat consults others and listens to their advice. If he is considering any ideas or has any concerns, he will find that by talking these over with those around him, he can benefit from their assistance.
At work this will be a challenging year. New targets or objectives could be set and some Water Rats may have to adjust to new working procedures or new management. The demands and expectations can be high, but while this can be an
