in his home life there will be a lot to do, often including making travel plans for later on in the year. Being a good organizer, the Ox will attend to many of the arrangements himself, but it is also important that he talks his plans over with those around him, especially with so much happening at this time of year. Despite all the activity, he will enjoy some special family gatherings at the close of the year.
The Year of the Goat starts on 19 February and will be a mixed one for the Ox. Oxen are careful, methodical and practical, but Goat years are times of change, with a lot happening very quickly. The Ox may not feel entirely comfortable with either the developments or the general tenor of the year, but it can bring important benefits and on a personal level there will be some particularly good times for the Ox to enjoy.
One of the more favourable aspects of the year concerns his home life. The Ox will often content himself with various projects, with his practical nature coming to the fore. As one project is completed, another will often suggest itself, and the Ox will be able to fill his time in satisfying and productive ways. In addition, he will find himself at the heart of family life, with many looking to him for advice or a helping hand and valuing his solid and dependable nature. For an honest opinion the Ox has few equals and over the year he will assist many people and could advise on a potentially significant matter. The Goat year will also have its memorable domestic occasions and promises to be a full and pleasing time.
The Ox’s social life can also reward him well. His personal interests will often have a good social element and throughout the year he will value the support of his friends. Whenever he has concerns he could find it helpful to share these and, if applicable, seek the advice of those with first-hand experience. In this variable year it is important that the Ox does not feel alone. ‘A worry shared is a worry halved.’
In view of the pressures he may face, it is also important that the Ox pays some attention to his own well-being and allows himself time to enjoy the rewards his efforts bring. Oxen who do not currently lead a balanced lifestyle will find that taking up activities in their area could open up some beneficial possibilities, possibly again with a social element. April, May, August and December could see the most social activity.
For the unattached, romance too can brighten the year. In true Ox fashion, some romances may take some time to get established, but by the year’s end quite a few Oxen will be enjoying the passions of true love. Romantically, this can be an exciting year.
In work matters, however, it can be a demanding time. For Oxen who are established in their role, the year will bring its vexations, with many changes taking place and new procedures impacting on the work these Oxen have to do. Oxen favour tradition, while Goat years see change – and inevitable teething problems. For the majority of Oxen, the best policy this year is to concentrate on what is required and do the best they can in not always easy situations. However, while this may be frustrating, the experience many Oxen have built up could be especially appreciated when problems need addressing. Amid the pressures, progress is possible, and when it occurs, it will be well deserved.
For Oxen who are looking to improve their position by moving elsewhere or seeking work, again the Goat year can be tricky. Openings could be limited, competition keen and opportunities may vanish if not seized quickly. However, the Ox is tenacious and his commitment may well enable him to secure a position, possibly in a field that is new to him. Here again the Goat year will require flexibility, but provided the Ox is prepared to adapt and learn, he can gain experience that he can build on in the future. April, June and September to early November will see particularly encouraging developments.
Where finance is concerned, however, the Ox will need to be thorough. Throughout the year he should keep careful control of his budget and check the terms and obligations if entering into any major agreement. In particularly complex matters, professional advice would be wise. Also, if tempted to speculate, the Ox should be aware of potential liabilities. Financial matters need close attention this year and risks should be avoided.
In general, the Goat year will be a challenging one for the Ox. Sudden changes can disrupt his plans, but by doing his best in often volatile situations, he can discover new strengths and make modest progress. Importantly, he will enjoy the support of his family and close friends, and his domestic life is likely to be a source of pride and happiness. Personal interests can help his lifestyle balance, and for the unattached, romance can add excitement to the year. Overall, a tricky time, but with some important benefits mixed in.
The Metal Ox
One of the fine qualities of the Metal Ox is his conscientious nature. When he sets out to do something, he sets out to do it well. He is also tenacious and prepared to work long and hard for what he wants. However, in the Goat year, despite his best endeavours, his progress could be muted and there could be some niggling problems to address. Nevertheless, the year will have its brighter moments too.
In view of prevailing aspects, it is, though, important that the Metal Ox liaises well with others rather than acts independently. That way, he will not only be better able to gauge what it is best to do but also be more a part of what is going on. Some Metal Oxen are loners, but this is very much a time for involvement.
At work the Metal Ox could see considerable change, with some of the more traditional ways of doing things (which he prefers) being supplanted. Although he may be uncomfortable with certain developments, it is a case of focusing on what is required and making the best of his situation. He also needs to keep informed about ideas under consideration and be an active member of any team rather than on the periphery. With care, he can make his presence and expertise felt, but he does need to proceed mindfully, liaise well and pick the right moments.
Although progress will not be easy, the year will, however, still bring some opportunities. In some cases, the changes that take place will provide the ideal chance for the Metal Ox to develop his skills in another capacity. For Metal Oxen who are in a rut, the Goat year can open up some interesting and timely possibilities.
The majority of Metal Oxen will remain with their present employer over the year, but in an often changed role. For those intent on change or seeking work, the Goat year will be challenging. Openings may be limited, but here again the Metal Ox’s tenacious qualities can be brought to bear, and by keeping alert and seeking expert advice (communication is so important this year), he may succeed in his quest. Opportunities do need to be seized without delay, but over the year many Metal Oxen will have the chance to take on a new challenge. April, June and September to early November could see interesting possibilities.
In financial matters, the Metal Ox will again need to be careful and aware. When considering major transactions, he should allow himself the time to compare costs and options. This is no year for rush or risk. He should also keep watch over his budget and make early provision for plans and obligations. The better his control, the better he will fare.
A feature of the Goat year is that it favours personal development and, being practical, the Metal Ox could derive considerable pleasure from extending his interests. Also, should a new subject or activity intrigue him, he should aim to find out more. If he has let his personal interests fall away in recent years, this would be a good time to remedy this. Goat years encourage exploring talents and in this sometimes tricky one the Metal Ox’s interests could be of considerable benefit to him.
Further pleasure can come from travel. Some opportunities could arise at short notice, and while the Metal Ox may prefer to plan ahead, taking advantage of last-minute offers could lead to some enjoyable times, especially in the spring and summer.
Although the Metal Ox can be a private individual, it is also important that he stays in regular contact with his friends and is prepared to discuss any matters on his mind. The support – and assistance
