YOUR DESTINY IN 2020

The Year of the Rat comes with new beginnings, and with that, consider new opportunities and challenges as the shift in Qi permeates through 2020. Find out what you can expect and design a grand year for yourself. By Dato Joey Yap

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Precious Emerald watch with marquise-cut diamonds, Harry Winston

RAT

Abundance is just a matter of perception for the Rat. Instead of remaining idle, put in some effort and begin to notice it in every aspect of your life. It has always been there. In fact, it is your birthright, but perhaps you were too busy to notice its existence due to lack of awareness.

WEALTH While there’s no denying the Rat’s efforts can and will yield monetary rewards, you need to be extra-cautious of unwittingly overspending this year and thus wasting hard-earned cash. Conceiving a budget plan and adhering rigidly to it will keep your wallet comfortably plump in the year ahead.

CAREER A one-man-army mentality will do you no favours this year. This is a period where you’ll find people in both your social and corporate circles who will willingly help and empower you in your pursuits. Be approachable and a team player, and you’ll avoid the backlash of corporate politics while gaining indispensable allies.

RELATIONSHIPS It will be relatively uneventful in the love department, though committed Rats should still keep the fires of romance ablaze by whisking their partner away on a relaxing getaway this year. This will keep your relationship away from the threat of complacency and utter boredom. Single Rats should prioritise the expansion of their social circle as this will increase their chances of finding someone that catches their eye. There’s no rush, however—whirlwind romances aren’t in the cards for you this 2020, so take it slow.

HEALTH Pay extra attention to your physical and emotional wellbeing this year. The Rat has a greater chance of encountering urinary system issues this time around, but this will be of little issue if you respect nutrition, healthier living and medical check-ups when necessary. 

GEMSTONE Diamonds are supposed to bring luck and good health to those born under the sign of the Rat. The gem also helps to cleanse your energies and improves your foresight. There are plenty of opportunities ahead for fun, socialising and a little romance, but like the diamond, rats will have to be clear about their true selves right from the get-go to form stable social bonds. 

OX

For the Ox, worry will be replaced with optimism and fear will be replaced with hope. Although inauspicious stars are lined up to potentially derail you from your dreams, a positive and focused mind will ensure that the stars’ negative effects won’t cause tears to roll down your cheeks.

WEALTH You’ll see many opportunities to generate wealth across various avenues, even beyond your day job. The Ox may enjoy prosperity this year, but remember to appreciate the need for rest to keep burnout and stress at bay.

CAREER Your likeability will soar this year as superior and fellow co-workers become more receptive to you, enabling you to achieve a harmonious working environment. Polish your communication skills and you’ll be able to expedite this process.

RELATIONSHIPS The single Ox is ready to mingle and potential partners are definitely within your social orbit. Don’t play coy; be earnest and sincere about your feelings without being overbearing and your long search for love may well come to an end.

HEALTH The sturdy Ox remains relatively impervious to serious illness in the coming year, though a good diet and eye for fitness will ensure that even common health concerns will hardly ever bother you this time around. 

GEMSTONE Lapis lazuli is purported to help those born in the Year of the Ox to better connect with their inner selves, chasing away melancholy and strengthening one’s ability to concentrate. But don’t worry too much about tough times ahead— as with lapis lazuli, the year’s blues will still be shot through with threads of bright gold. 

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Résonances de Cartier Eurythmie bracelet in white gold, lapis lazuli and diamonds, Cartier 

TIGER

Good luck awaits the Tiger this year in the form of travel and money-making opportunities. While it is always good to adopt an attitude of gratitude when you come across favourable situations, it is also important to remember that these lucky chances may not come your way twice.

WEALTH While wealth opportunities will be aplenty if you’re receptive to travelling, suppress your urge to splurge as monetary loss is a very real threat this year. Minimising the financial damage is all about being prudent and keeping close tabs on cash-out flow.

CAREER While the professional road ahead is rocky, upping your communicative prowess will go a long way to ensure your efforts won’t go unrecognised while keeping the corporate drama coming your way to an absolute minimum.

RELATIONSHIPS Maintaining a positive mind and an upbeat personality will allow the Tiger to resist the side effects of their weak romance luck in 2020. Potential partners will be charmed by the energy you inject into the atmosphere, so stay cheery and your love life could well be merry.

HEALTH The Tiger is daring, but now is the time to channel that trait in ways that won’t involve any grave risk to both physical and mental wellbeing. Sticking to an effective health regime will allow the Tiger to stay fit enough to tackle 2020’s ample opportunities. 

GEMSTONE Tourmalines help tigers maintain internal focus and drive. This gem comes in nearly every shade of the rainbow (though greens and pinks are most common) and some even change colour under different light. Different shades also have different properties; green tourmalines, for instance, absorb excess nervous energy, leaving one calm and focused. 

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From left: Green Aurora earrings in 18k pink gold, tourmalines and diamonds, Piaget; Ble Maria necklace in yellow gold and white gold with yellow sapphire, pink spinels, Mandarin garnets, coloured tourmalines and diamonds, Chanel 

RABBIT

For better or worse, the theme of Rabbit’s forecast in the year of the Metal Rat is all about relationships. Almost all of the annual stars, both auspicious and inauspicious, touch upon your relationship aspect in one way or another. Though the current year is looking to be less auspicious than the previous one, how it would actually play out depends on your decisions.

WEALTH So long as Rabbits avoid any high-risk investments, they will be hopping towards abundance throughout 2020. Remain diligent and assume an uncompromising work ethic—this will boost your already positive wealth luck and raise your chances for a well-deserved raise. Real estate investment should also be an activity on your radar this year, though it’s best to play conservative and select only low-risk investments.

CAREER The Rabbit is liable to being swept up in gossip at the workplace, though prioritising work over corporate drama will allow you to minimise the backlash of the wagging tongues. Despite the rumours surrounding you, you’ll nonetheless enjoy a helping hand from colleagues throughout the year. Return favours as they come and you’ll design a better work experience for yourself this 2020.

RELATIONSHIPS Single Rabbits will be jumping for joy this 2020 thanks to positive romance luck, though you are advised to be proactive in the game of love instead of waiting for someone to sweep you off your feet. Meanwhile, committed Rabbits may want to consider tying the knot due to the presence of auspicious stars.

HEALTH A change of lifestyle and daily routine could be wise to preserve the Rabbit’s physical and mental wellbeing. Prevention is far better than cure; strongly adhere to this maxim by committing to a stricter fitness regime in 2020.

GEMSTONE Pearls are literally gems of wisdom for those born under the sign of the Rabbit, bringing added foresight and perspicacity. This year will be one of continued work for Rabbits who will likely spend 2020 making progress on existing projects and laying the groundwork for future endeavours. Think of this year as one of the pearl’s layers—many are needed before the completed product comes to fruition. 

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Le Paris Russe de Chanel Médaille Solaire bracelet, Chanel 

DRAGON

A journey like no other is this year’s theme for the Dragon’s forecast. The way you respond to a situation and the meaning you give to each moment is what really matters as it determines how your year will unfold. There will be challenging times, but remember no matter how tough a situation may get in life, you will still have the power to turn the tides in your favour.

WEALTH It is prudent to rely on those far superior to you in terms of financial management this 2020. The Dragon should be looking at investments into fixed deposits as well as better saving plans; expert advice will certainly help with such financial strategising.

CAREER Look at the silver linings of every career-related issue that may test the Dragon’s perseverance this year. Miscommunication and backstabbing may dominate your professional life this time around, but such hardships are also an opportunity for you to discover ways you can improve your interactions with those at the workplace.

RELATIONSHIPS Romantically entangled Dragons are in the clear for a progressive love life this year; there’s even the probability of resounding wedding bells should either party express their desire to tie the knot! Single Dragons aren’t quite as lucky in the love department, though mustering the courage to convey their affections towards the one they love may lead to surprising but favourable outcomes.

HEALTH This year is one where the Dragon should refrain from any extreme physical activity. Exercise is of course never frowned upon, though you should nonetheless be mindful of overexertion as you are more prone to physical injury this year. Meanwhile, pay special attention to any potential health concerns pertaining to your waist and stomach area. 

GEMSTONE Long associated with dignity, power, and love, the ruby is also considered the protective gem for those born in the Year of the Dragon, bringing added generosity and magnanimity to an already powerful sign. This year is predicted to be a generally positive one for Dragons. Aim to be more generous this year and be kind to both yourself and others. 

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Rubis Flamboyant ruby and diamond necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels 

SNAKE

This year presents many opportunities for Snakes to find the silver lining in every situation. Although good luck will come to you in the form of support and new relationships, the way you approach every situation will determine its final outcome. Life can be filled with so much drama due to the presence of the inauspicious stars this year, but if you choose to look at life in a more positive away, you could turn the tides in your favour.

WEALTH Thankfully, there will be opportunities for the Snake to accumulate, save and spend money in a more relaxed manner compared to the previous year. Nonetheless, toughen up the security around your assets if possible, to prevent any possible loss in wealth due to theft.

CAREER There are high chances of a promotion this year as your rapport with your superiors improve overall. Don’t be afraid to voice out what your contributions are; silence and false modesty are poor traits that will not get your talents noticed by those above you.

RELATIONSHIPS Give yourself room to breathe and collect your thoughts before you let your emotions escalate an argument. This goes for both single and committed Snakes. You may be more easily angered this year, but a heart of appreciation will go a long way towards keeping the peace between your loved one or potential partner.

HEALTH Cast away your frivolous attitude towards your health this year. Don’t underestimate minor health concerns; treat them before they worsen while paying more attention towards your diet. If you are not mindful enough, you could have urinary system-related issues or foot-oriented problems. Don’t let your health take the backseat.

GEMSTONE Sapphires come in a wide spectrum of colours, ranging from pink and purple to green and blue. For those born under the sign of the Snake, 2020 is also predicted to be a very colourful year, filled with life-changing events and deep personal evolution. Sapphire will certainly come in handy, helping to lift spirits and strengthen snakes’ faith, both in themselves and in others. They also purportedly attract friends and repel enemies. 

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Imperiale Joaillerie Rainbow watch in rose gold, sapphire and diamond, Chopard 

HORSE

The Horse's aim for this year should revolve around being patient, kind and appreciative because everything else will fall into place once you get into that type of mind set and attitude. In other words, you will step into a much more comfortable scenario even when life seems to lean towards a negative direction due to the presence of inauspicious stars.

WEALTH Wealth opportunities will be elusive if you do not exert the necessary effort; a diligent workhorse is the best Horse in 2020. Meticulous planning and heightened wariness will also save the Horse from a lot of financial heartache. Be careful when signing any contract or agreement, to avoid unwittingly losing money due to carelessness.

CAREER Meditation and charity work will be a source of attaining calm and appreciation for others; this is an important counter to the added stress you will endure at the workplace this year. Don’t allow a lack of recognition encourage you to throw in the towel. Persevere at your current workplace against all odds and your hard work may just be rewarded.

RELATIONSHIPS If you’re already in a committed relationship, remember that the trials you two will undergo this year only serve to make your romance stronger. Let every argument or setback teach you how to handle your relationship with greater appreciation and maturity. The single Horse, on the other hand, should explore new social circles to make up for the lack of interesting people in your current ones.

HEALTH Stress may be a dominant issue for you if you allow work issues to cascade into your personal life. Counteract this by ensuring you have ample rest, sleep and nutrition. Taking a much needed sabbatical can do wonders for your physical and mental wellbeing too. 

GEMSTONE Your lucky gem, the peridot, is a good one to have during this time of transformation, as it supposedly helps to facilitate a deeper connection with the inner self, ease meditation, and aid the articulation of desires buried in the depths of the psyche. Peridot also has a gentle rejuvenating energy that is good for helping the Horse recharge and de-stress in a fast-paced environment—a must-have for city dwellers. 

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Jean Schlumberger peridot earrings, and cushion-cut peridot pendant on diamond and platinum chain, Tiffany & Co. 

GOAT

The infinity symbol seems to have a strong connection with Goats this year, where issues tend to subside and absolute truths are revealed, thanks to the five lucky stars’ ability to tune you into this year’s miracles and wonders. A smooth path ahead is definitely anticipated, but if life takes a detour, it would be best to lean more towards the positive side.

WEALTH Careful financial planning is all it takes to mitigate the possibility of minor wealth loss in 2020. Beyond this, your wealth opportunities are looking very positive, though your own negativity may make you too blind to notice how fortunate you truly are. Shift your mindset and you will be rewarded accordingly.

CAREER The first half of 2020 will be a crucial time for you to establish a foundation for your career. Suppress your impatience and don’t mindlessly jump at every career opportunity you see; some of these so-called opportunities won’t benefit you in the long run. Only commit to something outside your primary work after careful consideration!

RELATIONSHIPS It’s time for confessions and courtships for all love-struck Goats. Acts of love will be even more impactful, so focus on planning that sweet date or vacation—as well as any other romantic gesture— that you might have been wanting to do for your loved one or romantic interest.

HEALTH Be extra careful of what you decide to ingest, especially if you are an older Goat. You might want to consider having more home-cooked meals instead of regularly eating out; this affords you better control of your nutritional intake and food hygiene. 

GEMSTONE Your lucky gemstone, onyx, is particularly good for increasing awareness of physical abilities. In ancient times, onyx was considered the gem of warriors, capable of concentrating one’s energy and protecting the wearer from physical ailments. It also purportedly makes one more purposeful and focused in their endeavours—good for staying on track during a year of surprises. 

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Cartier Panthere bracelet in white gold, onyx and emeralds, Cartier 

MONKEY

This year is shaping up to being the year that would truly test the Monkey's resilience in life. This is a great year to learn and grow through the many challenges that may come your way. Most people take their joys and blessings for granted and start grumbling about what they do not have when they are faced with problems and troubles.

WEALTH Your boost in wealth will rely a lot on the assistance of others this year, perhaps in the form of expert advice on what to invest in or how to shore up your financial security. Don’t take their help for granted though; be sure to pay it forward by helping the less fortunate and the Universe will have its way of repaying your kindness.

CAREER It is in your best interests to find ways of showcasing your talents more prominently to garner the attention of your superiors or other figures of importance. At the same time, be extra careful about who you trust and what you say, as your newfound recognition at the workplace may invite jealousy and potential backstabbing.

RELATIONSHIPS It’s crucial to deepen your bond with your partner or potential romantic interest this time around. Your partner should also be your best friend, so make the effort to improve your relationship on that level as opposed to simply making romantic or sexual gestures.

HEALTH While no major illnesses are expected to be of concern for the Monkey this year, it is still recommended to resist the allure of exceedingly tasty, yet extremely unhealthy and oily foods. Stress could also be an added issue this time round, though you can easily alleviate this by making exercise and meditation a prominent part of your routine. 

GEMSTONE Topaz is usually used to bring added tranquility during tumultuous times. But even if Monkeys don’t need the extra zen, topaz might come in handy; it is said to increase one's self-confidence and trust in one’s innate capabilities. The gem sheds light in areas that were previously hidden in shadow—so if you have any situations that need enlightenment, this is the gem to seek. 

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Elysium earrings and Elysium necklace in 18K white gold, diamonds, blue topaz, coloured sapphires and grossularite garnet, Tasaki 

ROOSTER

While many people out there are looking for ways to find the light which represents solutions, happiness and fulfillment, they often overlook the most important thing of all, which is to actually become a light onto others. Serving others will be much easier for Roosters as you will be experiencing quite a smooth year in 2020.

WEALTH It’s time to diversify your options for attaining wealth. Don’t just stick to what you already know; research various methods on how to increase your finances, then seek out professional help to pinpoint the best route towards gradually upping your bank balance.

CAREER It may not be the most smooth-sailing of career journeys, but the Rooster will nonetheless encounter good opportunities, such as the possibility of enrolling in a special career development programme or more company trips to improve connections both within and beyond your workplace. Be extra nice and accommodating to the people in your professional circle to keep these opportunities coming.

RELATIONSHIPS If you have been reluctant to embrace the idea of online dating sites and casual dating, now is the time to reconsider. The single Rooster sees positive love luck in the year of the Metal Rat, though Mr Right won’t simply arrive through a fortuitous encounter. Show that you’re interested in losing your single status and you will massively up the chances of reciprocation.

HEALTH You may be surprised at just how much of a difference maintaining a healthy diet and eyeing your eating habits can make. It is also advisable for you to embrace nature a little more than usual, since this will help you to stay energised, mentally and emotionally. 

GEMSTONE Garnet is supposed to be a gem that enhances social warmth and positive relationships—keep it around you as much as possible. It is also recommended to take a step back when faced with people-related problems and make decisions only when fully aware of all of the consequences of your actions. 

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Le Paris Russe de Chanel Folklore bracelet in white and yellow gold, sapphire, Mandarin and tsavorite garnet, cultured pearl and diamond, Chanel 

DOG

Nothing is ever achieved without some trials and tribulations. The first step in moving beyond those circumstances is to remain positive. When Dogs radiate positivity, the quality of your thoughts and feelings improve. Remember that you cannot control everything in life: relationships or business. So embrace the adversity and dig in even further to drive a positive outcome.

WEALTH A solid financial backup plan will be your line of defence against the constant possibility of monetary loss this year. Don’t be so quick to invest your money as a means to counter this lacklustre wealth period. Avoid high-risk investments at all costs and focus more on simply saving money.

CAREER Influential people will have your back in the professional space, deterring potential backstabbers and opportunists from fully exploiting you. Be sure to show your appreciation of the people in power who will assist you; by aligning your e orts with those who have greater authority, you stand a fair chance of turning your career prospects around.

RELATIONSHIPS Love-struck couples and wedded pairs may be more likely to fall sick, which is why it’s a good time for them to show more affection, care and consideration towards each other. The Dog may also easily misunderstand their partner’s words and intentions this time around, so it may be wise for them to eye their loved one’s body language instead of focusing on what they say.

HEALTH You won’t have any difficulties finding the best medical assistance should your health deteriorate, though it’s far better if you take care of your wellbeing before it comes to that. Minor physical injuries are also more likely this 2020, so avoid extreme activities especially if you have not prepared any essential safety measures beforehand. 

GEMSTONE Amethyst, the gem usually associated with devotion and purity, will help Dogs stay limber and ready to react to anything life throws at them, positive or negative. As an added bonus, amethyst is also supposed to protect one from snakes—both animal and human. 

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Jean Schlumberger Arrows Clip in 18k gold, diamonds, amethysts and Montana sapphires, Tiffany 

PIG

Pigs have a great year ahead in terms of wealth and learning, with a good star that would boost monetary gains, particularly through information accumulated through carefully researched investments. There are many ways of looking at your life this year and the outcome is determined by your state of mind and the actions you choose to take during every moment.

WEALTH You will see a positive shift in your wealth luck this year as more doors open for you to get better part-time jobs as well as other alternative sources of income. While none of these opportunities are particularly spectacular, e ort on your part to harness these changes will be enough to afford you peace of mind.

CAREER You won’t be needing to struggle in your professional life too much, thanks to a generally positive relationship between you and your colleagues. In fact, you may be primed to elevate yourself to a better corporate position by leveraging on the assistance of bountiful helping hands you will enjoy this year.

RELATIONSHIPS Great news for the single Pig—you won’t be alone much longer if you have been searching for your soul mate. That said, it is best if you didn’t act on impulse; take your time to get to know your love interest on a deeper level before committing yourself. Time is on your side.

HEALTH Don’t use your busy schedule as an excuse to omit healthy additions to your lifestyle. There are plenty of quick, cost-effective ways to care for your health, nutrition and overall fitness without compromising the progress towards your goals. Find out what works for you health-wise and commit to it! 

GEMSTONE Opals are the most visually complex gems of all the ones on this list, with iridescent flecks and multiple rainbow hues all encompassed within the same stone. Like their birthstone, Pigs are predicted to have a year chock-full of positivity. To prevent intemperance, however, it’s also best to keep some opals on hand. They are supposed to protect against addictions and overindulgence. 

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Premier Hypnotic Opal Mosaic Automatic watch in white gold with opals, sapphires and diamonds, Harry Winston 

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