By Sun Lee Chang
Northwest Asian Weekly
Image by Stacy Nguyen/NWAW
Are you tired of the status quo? If that is the case, then the impending year of the monkey, which by the lunar calendar will start on Feb. 8, won’t disappoint you. Each animal in the Chinese zodiac has five associated elements, including wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. This is the year of the fire monkey.
As the ninth out of 12 animals in the zodiac, the monkey is ever-changing, always seeking the next highest branch or prize around the corner. With brains to match his or her ambition, there is nothing stopping the monkey except for his or her own fickle nature.
Don’t expect just a small spark, but the drama and excitement that fire embodies. Watch for the color red, as it is in line with the element of fire.
Shortly following the start of this year, there will be a major announcement. Whether it is about you or someone who is close to you, it could alter how the year will unfold. As you adjust to the new conditions, you must exercise self-discipline and patience, as well as fight against the inevitable wayward inclinations that strike your fancy. If you can harness the charm and intelligence of the monkey, then this could be a truly exceptional year.
Curious about what the year of the monkey holds for you? Keep reading for a sneak peek at the opportunities and pitfalls that await you this year, with special focus on the areas of work and love.
RATS
There is some unfinished business that you have to attend to soon. Travel could be required by midyear to resolve related issues.
Work: You must decide where you want to invest your time and attention. Simply going on autopilot is no longer an option.
Love: No matter how strong the initial connection, it won’t maintain on its own. Keep the bonds fresh by checking in regularly.
OXEN
The reins have loosened enough to allow you to move freely. With the lessening of restrictions, you are at liberty to make a more fitting choice.
Work: You have finished one chapter and are ready for another. The new story that’s about to be written sounds oddly familiar, but with a twist.
Love: A supportive environment lends itself well to personal development. Be there for your partner in the same way that your partner is helping you.
TIGERS
Does it seem like you are playing the same game, just with a different opponent? You are in a position to rewrite the rules this time.
Work: You are no stranger when it comes to pushing the limits. However, there is no turning back after a certain point.
Love: A random interaction can leave a lasting impression. Additionally, a small detail may have a significant meaning that can easily be overlooked.
RABBITS
The “real deal” isn’t quite what you imagined it would be. You should adjust your expectations.
Work: Forces beyond your control are in motion, but you can decide how you want to respond to what is happening.
Love: While the familiar feels comfortable, is that what you are really after? Perhaps you need to shake things up a little bit.
DRAGONS
Unlike your rash counterparts, you would do well to consider all the angles before opting to pursue the most logical option.
Work: If you don’t want to end up in the same place you started, you must strike out on your own.
Love: Practicality has its place, but there is another side to consider in the arena of romance. A dash of spontaneity would be welcomed here.
SNAKES
Not all scenarios are created equal. There are definite rewards and drawbacks to each, so play your cards carefully.
Work: A meddlesome counterpart could cause issues down the road. Only share as much detail as is necessary with this person.
Love: When you are in the mood to criticize, try saying something complimentary instead. You might be surprised at the results.
HORSES
Greater overall satisfaction could be yours if you can incorporate the many areas of interests that you have developed.
Work: Think beyond what is perceived as normal in your field. Groundbreaking work is hard, but invigorating at the same time.
Love: Being appreciated for who you are is important to you, so practice what you preach this year to attract the ideal match.
Just when you think you have accounted for all, an old issue resurfaces. Use the lessons of the past to put it to rest.
Work: You are careful not to burn any bridges, which is fortunate, for your connections will come in handy very soon.
Love: The qualities you possess should be enhanced and complimented by your partner, if not, a reworking may be overdue.
MONKEYS
It doesn’t matter whether you are young or old. Your impetuous nature will get you in hot water unless you think before you act.
Work: Have you noticed a recurring theme that seems to keep popping up? Look closely for a message that could have lasting ramifications.
Love: Stop storing up for a day that may or may not happen. Express how you are feeling sooner rather than later.
ROOSTERS
When you clear out room to make space for something else, the difference may have you going back to the way things were before.
Work: Whatever was brewing at the end of this past year is now at a boiling point. Expect things to start moving very quickly now.
Love: To be truly fulfilled, you must discover the difference between what you desire and what you need.
DOGS
After being in the forefront for quite some time, you are now seeking a measure of anonymity. However, the lure of the spotlight won’t long be forgotten.
Work: A friendly warning should be taken with a grain of salt. Watch for a hidden agenda from the source.
Love: Have you been debating whether to share what you have been holding back? Be prepared for an unusual reaction.
PIGS
Strange rumblings are coming from an unlikely source. Upon further investigation, a very simple explanation will be found.
Work: Acquiring skills is a worthy goal, but it is worth the effort to also apply what you have learned regularly so that your level of proficiency remains high.
Love: Although a separation of roles can make division of labor more efficient, there are instances where crossover is necessary. (end)
Sun Lee Chang can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.
In the print edition you omitted the Goat/Sheep !