Overall Forecast

Brace yourself for a challenging year, because a clash with the Grand Duke signals trouble ahead. Horses should not make any drastic changes in career, relationships, or wealth in 2008. This includes relocation, career change, getting married, and major surgery - must be avoided. This is especially true because of the long line-up of negative stars in your celestial path, which include the Year  Breaker, Lan Gan, Tian Chu, Sky Cry, and Calamity Sha stars. It is traditionally believed that this negativity can be lessened by holding a big celebration, so perhaps you may want to plan a big bash early in the year.

The Year Breaker Star is likely to bring a loss of wealth and unavoidable large expenditures. Do not make any short-term major investments. If you have to invest, look for conservative long-term ventures. If you are involved in a partnership, you should take extra precautions with finances.

You will have to be extra tenacious in getting things done this year, because the Lan Gan Star indicates obstacles and hassles in your endeavors. The Tian Chu Star is essentially auspicious, bringing good food and good travels, but it is negated by the effects of the Sky Cry and Calamity Sha stars, which mean problems in travel. This doesn't mean you should avoid travel, but take all possible precautionary steps - buy insurance, safeguard your money and possessions and aloow for delays.

Horses do not have any positive stars in this year's Life Palace. Hence, it is best to wait out the storm and postpone important events to the following year. This is not a year to get creative with financial matters - make sure you put your money in savings, and do not make decisions in haste. If you have any important decisions to make, discuss the matter with your elders or seniors, and if there is an important event to be held, it is advisable to select an auspicious date for it.

Career

Be prepared to tough it out if you are employed. Career prospects are unfavorable, so it is best to stay with your current job. You will have to word harder than last  year, and though you are willing to complete your tasks, your soul is not in the work. In these circumstances, it is natural that you feel helpless, but take heart and seek assistance from experienced and older colleagues. Use this year to reflect on your past, and plan for the future. Work-related travel should go smoothly.

Those who are leaders must put up with backstabbing and petty people seeking to bring them down. Nevertheless, stick to your principles. It will be wise to lay low and stay out of other people's matters where possible. Do not take the lead if the matter is none of your concern.

For business owners, this is not a good time for expansion - instead, consolidate the business to make it more robust.

Wealth

This year, you need to be cautious, because there are no helpful stars for wealth accumulation. With the Year Breaker Star present, there will be difficulties ahead - save money, watch your expenses, and do not make any risky investments. Do not be overly trustful of people, especially new acquaintances, and try not to carry large amounts of cash because you may lose your belongings. Make sure you bargain before you buy - you could end up paying too much if not. All is not gloom and doom, however, because the clash with the Grand Duke will bring lots of ups and downs - if you plan well and act carefully, you can still take advantage of the ups.

Relationship

Again, the clash with the Grand Duke makes this a changeable year. It is a good idea to reflect on what you want at the beginning of the year. Be tolerant, and try to minimize quarrels with your partner by spending more time at work or traveling. If you do have a change of heart, this is a good year to break up. Your partner may have a change of heart or goals.

Singles will meet someone, but the relationship will be short-term, and expensive too! Brace yourself, because your feelings could be quite badly hurt.

Health

Health Luck is poor this year because of the bad stars in your palace. You may be injured or, in extreme circumstances, need to undergo surgery. Take precautions - avoid dangerous sports, drive carefully, buy insurance, and go for medical checkup after February 4th including full blood screening. Seek medical care locally rather than abroad - it would be unwise to travel. The Calamity Sha and Sky Cry stars may cause a loss of vitality and even depression. The elderly should take care of the heart.

Forecast for Rats born in Different Years

1918 (Earth)

This year will involve some expenditure because of health related issues. Be prepared to face hassles alone, because those close to you may not be helpful when you need them.

1930 (Metal)

Wealth Luck is above average this year. You may need surgery. To be happy, stay at  home and attend to family matters.

1942 (Water)

You should be wary when dealing with legal matters, in particular contracts and documents. Do not make any major investments. Health-wise, you may experience small problems with sleeping and overall health. On the upside, relationships are good this year. Also, this is a good year to travel, so start making plans.

1954(Wood)

Pressure mounts at work. You may have to choose between your friends and life partner. At the same time, be careful when dealing with people, because there is a chance you may say the wrong thing to offend someone. There could be a misunderstanding with your underlings. Try not to dwell in your worries. The best course of action will be to stay active through traveling and work.

1966 (Fire)

Focus on the important things this year - though gossip, rumors, and arguments may circulate around, you should concentrate on your work and personal matters. You will gain much joy from spending more time with your partner. Do not compare your situation with others, because this will only breed discontent. Be tolerant and make sure you save. Travel will reduce stress, but be careful of mishaps.

1978 (Earth)

There will be a change of environment - perhaps you move house or change workplaces. This year's problems are likely to include pressure from home, problems with friends and family because of money, unstable relationships, miscommunications and stress affecting your performance at work. Do not be a guarantor for others, because you will likely lose out. It is a good idea to travel, but watch what you eat.

1990 (Metal)

Those who are still studying will have to study extra hard this year because Academic Luck is poor - pay attention to every detail, study early and get enough rest. Those who are working should look out for opportunities - the change will be tough, but good for honing your skills. Stay away from dangerous sports and you will be alright.

2002 (Water)

Health is problematic this year, and you easily fall sick with the flu or cough. You are also likely to injure your hands or legs. Extra caution is called for when out of the house, because you could easily get lost.