Happy Lunar New Year! It’s the start to a fresh beginning, and it’s time to celebrate the prosperity and good luck to come. Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year and Spring Festival, marks the ending of the winter solstice and the welcoming of new seasons in different countries across Asia. Along with the changing of the year, a new Chinese zodiac also gets its time to shine.
For some background, the Chinese zodiacs came to be because of the Jade Emperor, who’s considered to be one of the most important gods in traditional Chinese religion. He held a contest on his birthday and decided that the appearance of whoever came to his party would get to be a part of the zodiac, and their arrival time would determine their rank.
The rat was the first to show up to the party as it hitched a ride on the ox, who came second, but then hopped off before the ox could cross the finish line. The tiger came third after sprinting to the birthday party, followed by the rabbit and then the dragon. Like the rat, the snake wrapped itself around the leg of the horse and managed to get across the finish line, making it six and the horse seventh.
The sheep, monkey and rooster arrived in that order respectively. The last two animals were the dog and the pig, but the dog got distracted and the pig fell asleep after eating too much. In the end, the dog became eleventh and the pig came twelve. Wonder why there’s no Year of the Cat? The rat was supposed to wake the cat up, but in all of its excitement, the rat forgot and by the time the cat woke up, all of the zodiacs were assigned.
Interested in Chinese zodiacs and want to know what yours says about you? Look no further as we’re here to share what your Chinese zodiac says about you:
Dragon (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012)
The Dragon represents good luck, strength and health. If you’re born in this year, you’re most likely confident, intelligent and charismatic. Dragons are seen as a symbol of fortune in Chinese culture, so those born as dragons are seen to be naturally lucky and gifted. Just try to not let that prosperity make you arrogant and allow for it to go to your head.
Snake (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)
People born in the Year of the Snake are known to be extremely wise, observant and even a bit mysterious. You’re probably goal oriented and keep organized in order to achieve those big plans that you have. Snake people are also known to be intelligent minded and faithful to those close that you have relationships with.
Horse (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014)
Horses, you are the embodiment of beauty, freedom and power. Active energy and cheerfulness is centered around you, as those in the Year of the Horse tend to have energetic and uplifting personalities. However, you may be impatient and moody. Pay attention to the way you react to certain situations this New Year and try to practice mindfulness!
Sheep (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
Those born in the Year of the Sheep are usually calm, patient and courageous. Though sometimes underappreciated, sheep are considered to be trusted individuals and ambitious. The sheep is also seen as lucky and fruitful with richess. Sheep people can be a bit naive and emotional as well.
Monkey (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
For the years that fall during the monkey cycle, these people are witty, curious and even a bit mischievous. You might be the funny one of your friend group and are likely always making others laugh since monkeys are seen as jokesters and playful. Even though some may love your outgoing energy, others may be weary of your straightforwardness.
Rooster (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
If you’re a rooster, your most notable traits are being outspoken, daring and hardworking. Roosters are also observant and deep thinkers, so you may be more of the sharp and analytical type. People born as roosters sometimes can be a bit egotistical or boastful, so remember that it’s okay to be humbled once and while— that’s not a sign of weakness!
Dog (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018)
The saying, “Dogs are a man’s best friend,” definitely holds true to you. Dogs are loyal, honest and sincere which makes you a great ear for those that may need comforting. Though honesty is a positive trait, it can sometimes come off as harsh or blunt, keep in mind to have open communication with those around you so no misunderstandings occur.
Pig (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019)
The Pig is viewed to be culturally lucky since they’re seen as well fed. Some notable traits for those in the Year of the Pig are diligence, compassion and patience. Though pigs are deemed to be generous and hard working, they’re also known to be gullible, materialistic and self-indulgent. Think about possibly volunteering and getting more involved in your community this year!
Rat (1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020)
People born in the year of the Rat are clever, quick-witted and resourceful. Ambitious in nature, rats are sometimes overly stubborn and can lack empathy. That may have to do with the fact that they’re a bit sensitive to their own emotions. A good cry may be in store for you this New Year, but it’s not a roadblock in your life, just something that may make you a little stronger.
Ox (1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021)
Just like the animal, Ox people are strong, determined and fair. Oxes are seen as valuable in Chinese culture due to their participation in agriculture, so those born in these years are also viewed as hardworking and good leaders. The persistence that oxes hold may wear them down sometimes— take some time to loosen up and take a break this New Year.
Tiger (1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)
Tigers, it’s your year, so own it! People born in the Year of the Tiger tend to be independent, sharp and fiercely loyal. You care deeply about those who are close to you and are almost always on the move. However, remember to take a moment to recharge and relax because you don’t want to overwork yourself.
Rabbit (1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)
Those who are born in the Year of the Rabbit are more quiet and shy. Though it might take you a little to warm up to new people, your kindness and trustworthiness is evident and shines through to those you meet. Sometimes, you may put other people’s needs before your own, but make sure to speak up for yourself and let your voice be heard!
