In view of the work decisions the Rat will have to take, it is, however, important that he does what he feels is right. Once again he is advised to listen to his inner voice. If he has uncertainties or questions, he also needs to seek advice from those who are qualified to assist. Ill-considered decisions could cause problems later. Rats, take note.
This need for care also applies to money matters. Over the year the Rat will have expensive plans to carry through and will face additional outgoings, including repair bills and transport costs. He should budget carefully and also be attentive to paperwork and thorough when taking on new commitments.
Synergy can be an important factor in 2017 and in addition to the help the Rat receives from others, he will have many chances to assist those around him. Once again his help can make an appreciable difference, and his ability to empathize and suggest practical ways forward will be valued.
With his busy lifestyle, he should, if possible, aim to take a holiday at some time during the year. Driving himself relentlessly could take its toll and it is important he allows himself the chance to unwind. Talking over possible holiday destinations or ways of enjoying quality time with his loved ones can give rise to some interesting suggestions as well as set certain plans in motion.
The Rat should also make sure his personal interests are not neglected this year. With the Rooster year bringing new possibilities, if he is attracted by a particular activity or thinks of a way of developing an existing interest, he should take it further. This is a year to follow up what appeals to him.
Rats who are sedentary for much of the day should also consider incorporating some exercise into their routine. By seeking professional advice on the best way to proceed, they can be introduced to new activities and, for those who join fitness classes, enjoy social benefits too. In 2017 the Rat should aim to pay some attention to his well-being, and if he has any medical concerns, get them checked out.
By the end of the Rooster year, many Rats will be astonished by all they have been able to do. This will be an active and encouraging year, but to fully benefit, the Rat will need to be disciplined, act on his ideas and embrace emerging opportunities. Domestically and socially, this will be a rewarding year, with plans advanced and some potentially significant new relationships and friendships made. Work-wise, while the demands may be considerable, there will be scope for the Rat to use his strengths to advantage and often prepare the way for future progress. Overall, an active and rewarding year.
The Metal Rat
There is a Chinese proverb which reminds us, ‘Diligence is the mother of good fortune,’ and this is a year when the Metal Rat’s diligence can reward him well. This is a time for building on his present position, pursuing his key aims and being alert to new developments. He does, though, need to act in accordance with his true feelings and avoid risk and rush.
His personal and family life are particularly well aspected and celebrations are likely to be in store, possibly a wedding or the birth of a grandchild. In addition, news concerning another person could delight the Metal Rat and he could be in a position to offer wise advice. Metal Rats who have more senior relations could give help that is more meaningful than they realize, and while occasional generational friction may occur, the Metal Rat will play a valued role in the lives of many of those around him. There will be several family activities to look forward to throughout the year, and March, June and September could be particularly active.
The Metal Rat himself will also benefit from the help of family members. By sharing his hopes and any matters on his mind, he will find decisions can be made easier and assistance given. This is a time for openness and sharing.
The Metal Rat takes pride in his home and during the year he will be keen to make improvements, perhaps altering the décor or layout of certain rooms. A lot can be accomplished, but the Metal Rat should spread practical undertakings out rather than commit himself to too many at any one time.
It is also important that he allows himself a break over the year and, where possible, a holiday with his loved ones. Time away in a carefully chosen destination can do everyone good. May, late summer and the end of the year could all see interesting travel possibilities.
In view of his commitments, the Metal Rat will be selective in his socializing this year, but by taking up invitations and going to events that appeal to him he will enjoy the mix of occasions he is able to attend. For the concert-goer and sporting enthusiast, the year can contain some particular highlights.
For the unattached Metal Rat, romance, too, may add sparkle to the year, with an existing friendship becoming more significant or someone new entering the Metal Rat’s life. For Metal Rats who are feeling lonely or that something has been missing from their life of late, the Rooster year can mark a considerable upturn. However, in the early stages of a romance it would be better to enjoy the moment and let the relationship develop in its own way rather than rush into a commitment. March, June, August and December could see the most social activity as well as be good for meeting others.
The Rooster year can also lead to some important decisions work-wise. Many Metal Rats will see considerable change in their place of work as long-standing colleagues leave and new working practices are implemented. In view of the volatility, many Metal Rats will think carefully about their present position, take advantage of newly created openings (including promotion) or decide the time is right to look elsewhere. Here again the Metal Rat should act in accordance with what he feels is right. Whatever he chooses to do, however, he will rise to the challenges and opportunities the year brings and enjoy the chance to develop his skills in new ways.
For Metal Rats seeking work, the Rooster year can also bring encouraging developments. Although some of these Metal Rats may have felt despondent recently, they could discover or be alerted to an ideal vacancy almost by chance and it may seem as if it was meant to be. The positions some secure may be different from their previous roles, but they will give these Metal Rats the chance to prove themselves in another capacity. Work-wise, the transitory nature of the Rooster year can bring uncertain moments, but the skills and fortitude of many Metal Rats will shine through. Late March to early June, September and October could see encouraging developments, although such is the nature of the year that opportunities could arise at almost any time.
The income of many Metal Rats will increase this year, but the Metal Rat will still need to manage his outgoings well. Expensive plans need to be budgeted for and risks avoided. Should the Metal Rat be uncharacteristically lax, problems could ensue. This is a year for fiscal care.
With an often demanding lifestyle, the Metal Rat also needs to preserve some time to relax and unwind. If lacking regular exercise, he should seek advice on which activities it would be appropriate for him to do. Some attention to his lifestyle can make a noticeable difference this year and if he is feeling below par at any time or has any health concerns, he should get these checked out.
Overall, the Rooster year will be a busy and often special one for the Metal Rat. In his personal and family life there will be some good news to enjoy, and the more that can be carried out together, the better. The Metal Rat’s work and personal interests can also develop in encouraging ways and there will be the opportunity for him to add to his expertise. Throughout the year he will need to follow his instincts and proceed carefully, but if he acts in ways that feel right for him, he can enjoy an active and personally rewarding year.
Tip for the Year
Value your relations with those who are important to you. Also, preserve some time for yourself and your interests. Aim for a good lifestyle balance and enjoy what this year will bring.
The Water Rat