Your Chinese Horoscope for Each and Every Year. Neil Somerville

      11 February 1937–30 January 1938 — Fire Ox

      29 January 1949–16 February 1950 — Earth Ox

      15 February 1961–4 February 1962 — Metal Ox

      3 February 1973–22 January 1974 — Water Ox

      20 February 1985–8 February 1986 — Wood Ox

      7 February 1997–27 January 1998 — Fire Ox

      26 January 2009–13 February 2010 — Earth Ox

      12 February 2021–31 January 2022 — Metal Ox

      31 January 2033–18 February 2034 — Water Ox

      The Personality of the Ox

      For thousands of years mankind has valued the strength of Oxen. Reliable and hard-working, they can be depended upon and many of their sterling qualities are also found in those born under the Ox sign.

      True to their word, Oxen are redoubtable figures. Never half-hearted, when they commit themselves to something, they like to see it through. They are also no-nonsense sorts and, favouring tradition, stick to the tried and tested. New methods, gimmicks and constantly changing from one thing to another are not for them. Instead, they are practical, methodical and thorough. They aim to do things well. However, being self-willed, they can also be stubborn, and changing an Ox’s mind once it has been made up is no easy task.

      Oxen are also very thoughtful and consider their words and actions carefully. Indeed, when in company, they tend to be reserved and do not open up easily. They have a small but close circle of trusted friends and these friendships will have formed over a long time, with some dating back to childhood. Similarly, in matters of the heart, Oxen like to be sure before they commit themselves and their romances are often long and protracted. Here again they take their responsibilities seriously and are very loyal to and protective of those who are dear to them. In the home, though, they do like to make most of the decisions and will strive to run a well-ordered and efficient household. If anyone slacks off or annoys them in some way, they will be sure to let them know. When rankled (which is rare), they can have a formidable temper.

      Oxen like to proceed steadily and surely in most areas of life and when they have chosen a career, they are likely to remain with it, becoming ever more proficient as the years go by. While not outwardly ambitious or materialistic, they like to establish themselves in a certain field of work and take pride in what they do. In many a workplace, their solid nature, know-how and work ethic are greatly valued by their colleagues, with many taking on a more managerial role in later life. They can make good leaders and, with their high standards, also be hard taskmasters. They can find fulfilment in specialist areas where mastery of detail is important. Engineering, design, education and the law could appeal, and with their ability to use their hands, they can also make skilled technicians, surgeons and dentists. Oxen have an affinity with the outdoors, and farming and horticulture could also appeal to them. Another gift and passion can be music – some Oxen are to be found enjoying distinguished careers as musicians or composers.

      In matters of finance, Oxen are cautious and manage their situation well. They like to consider their purchases carefully. They do not tend to overindulge and are good providers, making sure their own needs and those of their loved ones are well met. When saving or investing, Oxen prefer more traditional routes, including those offering a set return, rather than speculating. However, should situations ever go against them (financial or otherwise), they can feel it deeply. They are poor losers and regard failure as a personal affront. But in time, they are sure to make good. Resolute, persevering and objective, Oxen are doers and survivors.

      They are also very much ‘take me as you find me’ sorts and do not tend to be flamboyant or showy in nature. It is because they are down to earth and unpretentious that so many hold them in high regard. You know where you stand with them. The female Ox tends to be more outgoing than the male, but, like him, she has a mind of her own, knows what – and who – she likes and sets about her activities in an efficient and organized way. She has a practical disposition and could also have a deep interest in the arts and be talented in certain areas. Both male and female Oxen value family life and regard their home as a private sanctuary for them and their loved ones, as well as a buffer from the sometimes crazy world outside. As parents, Oxen are caring and encouraging as well as inspirational teachers, but are also strong on discipline.

      The patient and measured ways of Oxen mean they sometimes hold back and may appear distant and aloof. They certainly do not lower their guard easily and take time before they feel at ease in the company of other people. However, they are loyal, sincere and dependable, and it is because of these qualities, together with their commitment and hard work, that they often do well in life. Napoleon Bonaparte, himself an Ox, once declared, ‘Victory belongs to the persevering,’ and Oxen are certainly persevering. Slowly, steadily and patiently, they are capable of achieving a great deal – and doing so in their own way and often on their own terms.

      Top Tips for Oxen