The Chinese calendar is divided into 12 segments, each represented by an animal sign. The 12-year cycle is continuously repeated. In fifth position is the dragon, which symbolizes not only ambition and drive, but also dominance. 2012 is the Year of the Dragon, beginning on February 4, 2012 and ending on January 22, 2013. People born under the Year of the Dragon tend to hold character traits similar to those of a dragon, while aspects of their lives also reflect the tendencies of a dragon.
Predictions for 2012, Year of the Dragon
After the peaceful Year of the Rabbit in 2011, the Year of the Dragon will seem full of energy and the spirit of the dragon will make everything seem "larger than life". Sometimes, things will seem better than they actually are and the year will be an over-ambitious and daring one.
The Chinese consider the Year of the Dragon to be a good time for people to get married, have children or begin a business venture as the year tends to bring good fortune and happiness. Business should go well and people will make money more easily. Dragons are people who like to spend money and have an all-or-nothing attitude, often putting aside caution.
Overall, the Year of the Dragon will be a particularly good time for people to be cautious because successes and failures will be magnified. On a larger scale, disasters and fortunes will occur on a larger magnitude with many surprises and violent acts of nature.
Characteristics of People Born in the Year of the Dragon
Those born in the Year of the Dragon enjoy challenges and are passionate in everything they do. This can actually leave them feeling exhausted and unfulfilled. Dragons are full of strength and vitality and in general, they have colourful personalities. As well, these people enjoy helping others but will not ask for help themselves. Dragons prefer to be alone, which may come across as arrogance, but is not actually so. One thing to watch for in these people is the quick-flaring temper. Overall, dragons tend to be egotistical, whimsical, demanding and unreasonable, but they can strongly support those they believe in and care for.
In health, those born in the Year of the Dragon are sometimes stressed because they sometimes take too many risks. It is suggested that they work mild activity such as walking into their everyday lives to give the body and mind a workout. Career-wise, dragons prefer to be leaders and do well in creative occupations. Some suitable job options are lawyer, architect, sales person or manager.
Those born in the Year of the Dragon like their independence, but once they find someone they really like, they often commit for life. Dragons also have quick tempers, so their partners need to be accommodating in this regard. In Chinese astrology, the dragon is most compatible with the monkey or rat, but is not compatible with the ox or the goat.
Dragons and the Five Elements in Chinese Astrology
People born in the Year of the Dragon can be further divided by the five elements of the Chinese zodiac:
Metal (years 1940, 2000)
- these dragons are more determined than others
- they like people who challenge their beliefs
- these dragons are true leaders
Water (years 1952, 2012)
- water calms the fire of the dragon
- these dragons are able to see the perspectives of others
- they do not need to be right all of the time
Wood (years 1904, 1964)
- these dragons also appreciate the perspectives of others
- they are creative and innovative
- they get along with others, but are usually dominating
Fire (years 1916, 1976)
- the emotions of these dragons can flare rapidly
- they need to keep their temper in check
- they tend to think highly of themselves
Earth (years 1928, 1988)
- more grounded than other dragons and tend to act more rationally
- these dragons can control their behaviour
Year of the Dragon, 2012
As the fifth in a series of 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, the dragon is a symbol of strength and dominance. People born in the Year of the Dragon have character traits similar to those of the dragon and certain life aspects are thought to reflect the dragon's characteristics.
Sources:
"Chinese Zodiac - Dragon". chinesezodiac.com, accessed July 23, 2010.
"Analysis of the Dragon chinese Zodiac Sign". theholidayspot.com, accessed July 23, 2010.
Mary Margaret Peralta - Mary Margaret is a mom to three children, with a passion for reading, writing and cooking.
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