Put the Year of the Ox to work for you
In Chinese tradition, every child’s future (and value in society) is predetermined by their lunar sign (you can look yours up here). These animal signs, a combination of domestic (pig, dog, ox, rat, goat, horse, rooster), wild (tiger, snake, monkey) and fantastical (dragon) each come with their own qualities and characteristics, just as in Western astrology. And like the zodiac, there are other mitigating factors (metal, fire, wood, air, earth) that determine each person’s path in life, rotating in twelve-year cycles.
Early in life, I was raised knowing that I was a Water Rabbit. Known as the luckiest of the twelve signs, rabbits are considered to be popular, prosperous, ambitious and fond of pretty things. Gentle, frank, responsible, collaborative, tender. Paradoxically, a little shy. On the downside, rabbits tend to get bored easily. We can be overly cautious or worry, and avoid conflict at all costs. I’ll let those of you who know me judge the accuracy of this description.
For 2021, The Year of the Metal Ox takes over last year’s horrible reign of the Rat. And while 2020 was indeed a stinker, the rat signals renewal and opportunity for success in new ventures. This year, the prospects for all signs indicate a year of hard work (get it, the ox?). That may seem like piling on the pain of last year, but from the lunar perspective, it’s a chance to create a better world–for yourself, for those around you, for the greater good.
So, as we enter this new phase on Friday, February 12th, you might want to make a point to read about what 2021 has in store for you, and use this moment of transition to set a new intention around it.
Linda Ong is the CEO & Founder of CULTIQUE, a boutique consulting firm focusing on trends in culture. She’s a contributor to the M.T. Deco blog and a long-time mentor to founder Melissa Blum.
Here are a few steps you can take to ensure you get the most out of this new lunar year:
Set a destination. Instead of worrying about tomorrow (apologies, Fleetwood Mac), think about where you’d like to be the next time the Ox year comes around, in 2033. Where might you be located? What is your day like? Working for yourself, or another? Remote or in-office? What’s your home life like? What are you doing for fun?
Use it as a filter for decision-making. Any time you’re faced with an opportunity or decision, ask yourself: Will this help me achieve that goal, or stray further from it? Intentionally open yourself to new people and ideas that can build your path efficiently – especially ones you might not have considered before.
Iterate, improvise and be spontaneous. Like a GPS, once you set your destination, there are plenty of ways–whether direct or circuitous–to get there. Don’t worry about taking a linear path. Every turn you take, every choice you make can take you closer, farther, or sideways from your long term goal. Life may throw you a detour, but at least you’ll know where you’re ultimately headed.
Wishing you peace, prosperity and good health in the Year of the Ox. This rabbit is going to try to make it a lucky one.