We may be well into the second month of 2018, but the celebrations for the Chinese New Year have only just begun. This year is the Year of The Dog, and whether you fancy yourself a dog lover or not, the zodiac pooch has a lot in store for us all this coming year.
This year's New Year's celebrations, which are based on the lunar calendar, kicked off on February 16. In Chinese culture, each lunar year is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, with 2018 being the Year of the Dog. Specifically, 2018 is the year of the Earth Dog, as each sign and year are associated with one of five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth).
In Western astrology, it's believed that the zodiac sign at the time of your birth determines a lot about your qualities and personality. In Chinese astrology, the year's zodiac sign affects not only those with the same sign, but the world as a whole. That means even if you're a Horse, Snake, or Dragon, you'll still function under the influence of the Dog's attributes. Let's just say, no one is safe from the Dog this year — and that's definitely not a bad thing.
Let's take a closer look at what we can expect from the Year of the Dog.
Goodbye Fire, Hello Earth
The past two years have been pretty darn volatile, don't you think? According to Chinese astrology this makes a lot of sense, as 2016 was the Year of the Fire Monkey and 2017 was the Year of the Fire Rooster. This year will (hopefully) provide for a more grounded atmosphere, as dogs — especially earth dogs — are much more stable and cool-headed. Sure, dogs have quite the bark, but it's nowhere near a monkey's mischievousness energy or a rooster's sharp tongue.
Honesty and Integrity
Those born during the Year of the Dog value honesty and integrity, which are qualities that will radiate into 2018. This is a year of distinguishing between right and wrong, but acting on it as well. Dogs fight for what is right, especially if there has been any sort of injustice. This year we'll see a call for action grounded in fairness and equality.
Success Will Be Hard-Won
Dogs are hard workers, and for that reason, they're usually successful. (Hard work pays off, people!) This year, you too can expect success, as long as you're willing to put in the work. Diligence and dedication are key in 2018.
Be Ready To Make Changes In Everyday Life
You should be ready to make practical changes in 2018 — ones that affect your everyday life. Starting a new healthy morning routine or finally putting an end to a bad habit are both great types of changes you should embrace. The Year of the Dog is full of possibilities, so it's best that you seize this lunar year and better yourself and the world around you.
All Dogs, Take Heed
It may seem counterintuitive, but Chinese astrology believes it's actually bad luck when the year of your own sign rolls around. (Sorry anyone born in 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, or 2006.) Apparently, when it's the year of your sign you offend Tai Sui, the ancient God of Age. It's advised that those in their zodiac year pay extra attention to their behavior and actions. Luckily, there is one way to generate a little bit of good luck — by wearing red. Red is an extremely lucky color in Chinese culture, and can apparently ward off some of that bad juju. But before you run out to the store it's important to note there is a catch — whatever red item you wear must be given to you by family or friends, and never bought by yourself.
May the Year of the Dog be a lucky one for us all.
