When the Earth Rat year starts in the Spring of 2008, those born in the Year of the Rat fall into the category of those who offend the Grand Duke. This is not necessarily bad, but Rats need to be slightly more cautious and watch their actions this  year. A traditional way to deal with this situation is to hold joyous celebrations, which will help usher in positive vibes. Otherwise, you should stay active by traveling, moving, or renovating house, going on business trip or transferring departments - this also generates positive vibes to counter Grand Duke.

In 2008, there are three auspicious stars in the Rat Life Palace. Two of these stars - Sui Jia and General Star combined will bring good progress to the Rat's career. If you are employed, you will probably be promoted with pay raise. The third auspicious star is the Tang Fu Star. Tang Fu is a sign of authority, and particularly benefits those who use discipline at work, for example those who are in the military forces. In this case, you will most likely be promoted if you are aggressive in getting things done this year. Additionally, the presence of the General Star will give you the determination you need to achieve better things.

As for negative influences, there are three stars to watch out for, all of which impact your health. These are the Sword Edge Star, the Fly Blade Star, and the Hidden Door Star. All three indicate the possibility of injury, anxiety, and accidents, so you should take extra precautions throughout the year when it comes to personal safety.

Career

This year, Rats will be aided by the Sui Jia Star and the General Star. These will help you blossom at work, revealing your full potential to your superiors and co-workers. In particular, those whose professions are related to discipline stand to gain the most. You will receive strong support from your superiors - take this opportunity to show your talent and you have a good chance at that promotion.

The Tang Fu Star provides you with plenty of useful ideas. If you are vocal, others will listen and give you recognition. Note that although you are advised to stay active this  year, you should not make any sudden changes or big decisions just yet. Once exception is if you are offered a project abroad by your existing employer - taking up the challenge will prove advantageous. In 2008, you need to be self-reliant and self-motivated - though you may be working yourself to the bone, your hand work will fruit into recognition and appreciation from others.

Wealth

Rats enjoy generally good Wealth Luck this year. Entrepreneur Rats are never short on inspiration and new opportunities, and should be able to achieve significant growth through concentrating their efforts in the right channels. Direct Wealth Luck is far more favorable than Indirect Wealth Luck, however, so you should depend on conservative investments and steady revenue rather than speculative ones when it comes to income.

Relationship

Relationships are uncertain and unlikely this year. Single Rats should not invest too much in relationships because these are more likely to be short-term and casual. Those who are attached are probably more interested in advancing in their career rather than taking the next step. The relationship could suffer as a result, and frequent arguments are likely - you could avoid tension by spending more time away. Couples who plan to tie the knot should be more patient and less emotional - the preparations for celebration may prove too taxing otherwise.

Health

Your health is compromised by three negative stars this year. These stars incur a likelihood of injury and sickness. You need to organize your time well, putting aside sufficient time for rest and recuperation. The Sword Edge Star may bring injury by metal, so Rats should be extra careful on the road and when using heavy machinery. The Fly Blade Star indicates robbery, injury through accidents, and surgery. These events are likely to happen, but you can reduce the risks by staying away from remote places and not taking any chances with your personal safety. The Hidden Door Star also indicates illness - schedule a thorough medical check-up at the beginning of the year to prevent any health issues from occurring. Another way to reduce the power of these negative stars is by donating blood or going to the dentist for thorough cleaning including scaling.

Forecast for Rats born in Different Years

1912 (Water)

This year, you are at high risk for injury and accidents. Avoid contact with 'metal' where reasonably possible. You should also beware of household accidents and incidental illnesses such as catching the flu.

1924 (Wood)

The Year of the Rat brings good Wealth Luck to you! A low-risk investment could yield a small fortune in returns this year. However, be cautious when traveling, and be careful what you eat because there is a chance of food poisoning. Concerning relations with the younger generation, all is harmonious and well.

1936 (Fire)

Emotional instability and trouble sleeping are all too likely this year. Consequently, you may fall prey to frequent mood swings. To minimize these problems, you could try going out more with friends and taking up a common hobby or interest. Keep away from speculative investments because Wealth Luck is not favorable.

1948 (Earth)

Get your friends and family together and throw a big birthday bash this year - this will mitigate the negative forces that result from a clash of the heavenly stem and earthly branch. Exercise regularly to improve your general  health. Besides this, entrepreneurs should not exert themselves too much, or make over-aggressive moves which will incur losses.

1960 (Metal)

Your thoughts are clouded and you are easily distracted. If you need to make any big decisions, seek advice from those who are more experienced. Your health may hold you back too, and affect your performance at work. There is also the possibility of join-related problems, cholesterol problems, diabetes, and high blood pressure. As for relationships, those who are married need to be more patient with their spouse, and things will turn out fine.

1972 (Water)

Buck up, because you will be presented with many opportunities to advance your career in 2008. Career progress is almost guaranteed, although, you may find that initially there may be obstacles to overcome. Be prepared to deal with problems, and you should be able to rise above any hassle. Another piece of good news is that Wealth Luck is generally stable this year. Married Rats may be involved in a love triangle - this would definitely lead to an unhappy outcome for all parties concerned, so think carefully before you act.

1984 (Wood)

Relationships that start this year are not likely to last, so take heed and focus on your career instead. If you figure out what you really want to do and pursue your goals, you could make substantially more this year. On the road, be more cautious because road accidents are likely.

1996 (Fire)

Some emotional instability may result in downward-spiraling academic performance. You should stay focused and not let extra-curricular activities eat take up all your study time. Also, minimize sports activities to avoid injury this year.