2010: Year of the Tiger -- Rat

RAT: 51% (6 favorable and 6 unfavorable months)

There will be times you think 2010 is a good year and others when you will wonder if the opposite is  true. On a positive note, the Metal year produces good fortune for you. The Tiger, on the other hand, is a big cat, and not exactly a friend to the Rat. Two important keys to your success are to be nimble and not to pick fights you have a chance of losing. The Tiger has claws, and defeat is not likely to be pretty. There will be plenty of action this year, which should suit you just fine. Scale back your endeavors in the first six months of the year and make your most concerted efforts during the next six good months. This formula should leave your life's balance sheet in the black at year's end.

Career

The Rat is likely to experience at least one major change in career path or professional role this year. The best strategy is to cultivate flexibility. If changes are not of your choosing, you'll be best positioned to take advantage of new opportunities by relinquishing some control and being your most adaptable self. Your independent nature could be a disadvantage if you don't pay close attention to developments in your field. It is a good time to monitor game-changing trends. The Rat is known for tenacity and resourcefulness, traits that will serve you well. If you are willing to adjust your plans accordingly, this Tiger year could tangibly improve your career prospects in the second half.

Relationships

Loving family relationships are featured prominently in this Tiger year. The Rat may be called upon to provide support to an older relative, thus enhancing a close, and mutually rewarding bond. You shouldn't hesitate to call on family first for assistance or advice. Attend as many events and gatherings of the most important people in your life as possible, or better yet, plan some yourself. In fact, it is advisable to go out of your way to create the environment for happy, memorable occasions to be enjoyed. Romance is not to be neglected either. Proactively expanding your social circle and interests will connect you with one or more exciting new love prospects.

Health

Relaxation will be valuable to your health this year. The Rat has a tendency to never fully unwind, even when participating in so-called leisure activities. This tendency will be even more exaggerated by the Tiger, so your overall well-being will depend on you making a real effort to find true outlets for stress. Some of your hobbies could be unwitting sources of pressure anxiety. Try some non-competitive physical endeavors and practice those that make you feel balanced and at peace instead of simply posing a new set of standards for achievement. 

Wealth

As ingenious as the Rat can be financially, the Tiger year does not bode well for any risky ventures. The Tiger's hallmark is leaping before looking, so you should be vigilant so as not to get caught up in clever but uncertain schemes. Things will not always be what they appear this year, and that is especially true in money matters. It is not to say you should make no investments or major purchases this year; however, due diligence erring on the side of caution and conservatism could avert serious losses.