What will the Rabbit bring for you?

Whenever Chinese New Year approaches, almost everyone (non-Chinese included) is anxious to find out what will happen to them in the next 12 months.

The so-called "scientific" way is to consult political and economic analysts, but these fortune-tellers are so inaccurate in their predictions that no one trust them any more except the morons running big corporations and public institutions. The green parrot at the traditional roadside fortune-teller stall gives better answers.

Personally, I consult the ancient Taoist Almanac and the I-ching (Book of Change) if I want to divine the year ahead.

Here's a summary collated from my research on what you can expect in 2011, the Year of the Rabbit, depending on which Zodiac Animal you belong:

If you were born in the Year of the Rat, you can have good luck in love, career advancement and social life. 2011 will also be a good year for you to invest in stock market blue chips (but not casino chips!) and if you are thinking of settling down, this is the time.

If you're an Ox, be wary about going into business or making major financial commitments, at least in the first half of the year. Your safest strategy to ward off disaster is to keep a low profile and work hard.

If you're a Tiger, you can relax as this will generally be a slow year in work, business and romance. Be tactful in words and cautious in behaviour to avoid conflict at work and in relationship.

Rabbits may have a trying time despite this being the Year of the Rabbit. But you would still have your fair share in the good things as long as you are patient. Remember, all things come to him who waits.

This should be a splendid year for the Dragon. Take your chance and invest in your career (sign up for an MBA programme if you don’t have one) or business (a good time to expand). You may also enjoy good fortune in love and romance, although for men, it doesn’t mean you can hire a mistress from China!

2011 may be difficult for the Snake, so keep your guard up and review your investment portfolio with a finetoothed comb. Watch your money, check your health (especially your blood pressure!) and do not over-indulge.

A run of good fortune is what the Horse can enjoy in 2011. There are unlikely to be unpleasant surprises lying in wait, but be wary of business partners, especially those with candy words and big promises.

The surefooted Goat would still have to watch his or her steps in 2011. Be patient and wait for opportunities. It will be a busy year for you, but remember busy-ness does not equate with productivity.

The Monkey has emotional baggage to put down this year. Take extra care of your health and watch your expenditure. There is little to worry about regarding money matters as long as you are careful with the pennies.

For the Rooster, stay alert as this may be a challenging year. However there is nothing you cannot achieve with faith, patience and the support of true friends and family members.

2011 may turn out to be a Midas year for those born in the Year of the Dog. Everything you put your hands into is likely to turn to gold. So, live well, but remember to share your good things with the less privileged.

For the Pig, go slow. Do not commit to big-ticket items like loans, and save, save, save! Be patient and avoid any commitment that may get you into debt, including serving as financial guarantor to a friend.

The above are just possible outcomes. As 13th Century enlightened Taoist master Chiu Chang-chun [丘長春] says:

“The major determinant of your future is the heart. If a cruel heart is tamed, or a kind heart becomes cruel, the expected outcomes will change. Our destiny is determined by our own actions. People who were initially destined to die peacefully may end their lives in violence if they do evil deeds. People who were initially destined to die a violent death may die peacefully if they perform good deeds. Our destiny is in our own hands.”