This is the Chinese Year of the Ox and it begins on February 12 – New Year’s Day on the Chinese lunar calendar – and lasts until January 30, 2022. Years of the Ox occur every 12 years, and 2021 is a Metal Ox year. 

The Ox is the second animal in the Chinese zodiac. According to myth, the Jade Emperor said the order in which the animals would appear in the zodiac would be decided by the order in which they arrived at his party. The Ox was looking to be the very first to arrive, yet the Rat tricked the Ox into giving him a ride. Sure enough, as soon as they got close, the Rat jumped down and landed ahead of the Ox and arrived first. In China, the ox is valued for its role in agriculture, and in the zodiac its positive characteristics include being honest and hardworking.

Oxen are honest, earnest, intelligent, reliable and hardworking, but never demand praise or like to be the centre of attention – they’re low-key. In fact, Oxen believe that everyone should do what’s expected of them and remain within their limits. They rarely lose their temper and they think logically, which makes them excellent leaders. 

Oxen are most compatible with Rats, Snakes and Roosters, and they’re least compatible with Goats, Horses and Dogs. For Oxen, 2021 may bring bad luck in relation to their career, yet it will result in stable career prospects. Just like the wild oxen that run freely in the fields, people born in the Year of the Ox are typically healthy and fit, with hospital visits being quite rare. Overall, 2021 will be a great year for Oxen to hone their skills and groom their talents, and they’re encouraged to keep in mind that when luck is not on their side, hard work will be the solution. 

KATE SEARS