Rat
General
2018Your sign of the Rat knows how to survive even the toughest times, which you showed yourself again and again last year. But during the year of the earth Dog, you're getting ready to let go of what isn't working for you, and enjoy your life a little more in the process. You're less interested in climbing mountains, or putting daunting plans into place. Instead, it's a more relaxed year, filled with friends, family, and spending time with romantic partners.
Love in all its forms becomes the glue that holds everything together for you now. That and building your home, business or online empire, with the help of the determined Dog energy. Issues of loyalty are also bound to come up, as someone doesn't seem to be willing to go to the mat for you when it matters. Good thing you're surrounded by people who are, and who show you daily how much you're loved and appreciated.
Love - Romantic
Rat natives like you are so charming, they never lack for potential partners. If you're single and seeking new love this year, look to the solar eclipse of July 12 as the perfect time to mingle doing the things you love best. Avoiding bars and loud clubs gives you an opportunity to get to know each other doing things you already share. Win-win! As you begin to date, try not to let any expectations go, as you simply enjoy the time what a luxury! As worries about where you stand disappear, you have a ball in each other's company.
Those already married or in partnerships are facing a big decision during the same time. Should you take that walk down the aisle this year? Get engaged? Or even start a family? Or should you wait a little, and maybe move in together first? Whatever you decide, the solar eclipse helps shine a light on what matters to you both. No need to feel rushed or harried.
The earth Dog energy is cool, calm and collected, highlighting loyalty and sensitivity above all. You know you're with the right person, and just need to come to an agreement about how to proceed. If communication problems arise, especially in the fall, give yourselves some space. Hanging out with friends only lends your union more strength, as you find the perfect balance between the two. Good thing you're both in each other's corners. By year-end, you're ready for another bold step into the unknown together.
Finance - Money
On a bad day, Rat natives are still very good with money. You just understand what makes it work, and why you need to make sure you have plenty of it lying around.
The lunar eclipse of July 27 represents a turning point for your sign. You've done a great job building wealth for yourself so far. But what if it could be even better?
During the year of the earth Dog, you're asked to use that earth element to plant new seeds, which can then grow and bear fruit for you down the line. Making an appointment with a qualified financial advisor may show you little tips and tricks to save you tons more money each year, while taking some of the burden of taxes and paperwork off your back.
You may even find by late fall that your simple savings plan has become a more complex and diversified portfolio.
Career - Work
You tend to be a very ambitious person who doesn't know the meaning of the words "can't be done." Last year, you had more struggle than you would have liked, but this year is more about slow, steady growth toward achieving your dreams.
If you've got your sights set on a corner office, it's best to ask for your yearly performance review around summer's end, when you're rested and can show your boss how much you bring to the company, and how much you deserve the raise you're seeking.
If you're looking for a new job, June and July are best for finding positions that dovetail with your unique set of skills. If you're thinking about starting your own business, it's within your grasp during the year of the earth Dog, especially if you're considering starting something with a friend or partner. Knowing you're going into business with someone you can already trust takes a huge weight off your mind, and allows your incredible creativity to come forward.
Friends play a major role in your success this year, forming an unbreakable bond with you, Rat. If you face some challenges on the way, you're more than up to the task. Your innate perseverance and never say die spirit conquers all.
Health
You're a pretty healthy sign, Rat, and may seldom get sick. Last year may have worn down your immunity a little, though, with all the stress and extra work you had to do. So this year, under the earth Dog, it's essential to dedicate some of your time to self-care.
Late spring and early summer are potential times of burnout for you if you're not careful. You're sometimes an over-giver, as well, taking on extra projects when you know you're at capacity. So, dedicate some of your time to yoga, meditation, or other stress-reducing activities, while investing in massages or quiet time spent reading, walking or, daydreaming. With that out of the way, you have more energy for other kinds of self-care.
Making sure to schedule your check-ups and yearly appointments is one way you can show yourself how much you care. Keeping your physical self happy and productive starts within.
