The Rat

People who were born in the year of the Rat (子) have genuine charm complemented by a bright personality. The Rat lies its foundation in a robust social network, though if it does decide to give someone its heart, it will do so with loving kindness. At home, the Rat is very reliable when it comes to familial responsibilities. But be warned - the talkative Rat is not so great at keeping secrets. Even if you are very close, be careful about what you share.

The Rat is best suited for a diversified line of work

This sign represents curiosity, originality and high intelligence. The Rat is very ambitious and determined, as soon as it knows what it wants. Rats work diligently and consistently at their career, which is very important to them. Sometimes, they have the tendency to behave harshly. This sign really values creativity. It also has a good sense of intuition and gives helpful advice. The Rat delivers results - though it usually prefers to channel its energy and drive into a diversified line of work.

Rats do everything for their family

When it comes to love, the Rat is consistent, romantic and affectionate. It's likely that the Rat will end up with someone who is also highly intelligent, eloquent and ambitious. Rats believe that the only way to happiness is to be economically successful. On one hand, they do not want a partner with expensive taste, but on the other, they do have certain expectations for the type of lifestyle their partner should have. The ideal match for the Rat is the Monkey, and the least favorable mates are the Horse, Pig and Rooster.

Love

Great match:
Dragon, Monkey

Good match:
Ox, Snake, Rat, Dog

Decent match:
Tiger, Rabbit, Goat, Rooster, Pig

Bad match:
Horse

The Five Elements of the Rat

Wood Rat

This breed prefers to feel the ground beneath their feet. Those born in wood years have lots of conviction and certainty. They gain material and non-material goods in an ethical manner - their efforts are lucrative but also sustainable. They are open-minded toward development and improvement, and they present their ideas with persuasion and assertion.

The element of wood brings out the Rat's need for security. The Wood Rat  is confident and lives firmly by its principles. It looks for results and solutions, which brings this breed success and public recognition.

Fire Rat

This element is passionate, ambitious and fiercely competitive. Those born in fire years are often strong and confident, but they can also be impatient. They are able to defy the odds, but sometimes need to keep their ego in check, as their dominant personality is not always welcome. They tend to gravitate toward improvement and innovation. When it comes to career, fire-born individuals show tremendous leadership potential.

 

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The energetic and combative Fire Rat is very passionate about serving the common good. It is less approachable than the other types of Rats, though it always promotes truth and common sense. This zodiac sign requires freedom and likes to wander. It has the tendency to lose control in situations that require discipline, tact and competition.

Earth Rat

Those born in earth years are intelligent and responsible, and can be more on the traditional side. They have lots of common sense and avoid situations that are too risky or adventurous. They are highly practical and logical.

 

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The Earth Rat  thinks carefully about every single possible development - they are not looking to make a quick profit; rather, they consider the long-term strategy. This Rat is more level-headed than the other Rat types. It avoids taking unnecessary risks.

Metal Rat

Those who were born in metal years are strong, firm and principled. They stay calm and in control when others are upset, as they are able to handle challenging situations. They are obstinate and ambitious - metal personalities aren't afraid to use their imagination, but they are also very goal-oriented. 

 

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The Metal Rat  is very focused on career. It is highly ambitious and will reach its goals one way or another.

Water Rat

Water is adaptable to change  (unlike metal, for example, which shows more resistance). Variability, flexibility and interdependence are core qualities of this element. Water makes for an inquisitive mind that enjoys learning and mental stimulation. Those born in water years are sensitive and communicative, as they have a strong sense of intuition. They tend to have a more passive approach and can sometimes get tired easily.

 

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Water positively affects the Rat in the sense that it allows its thoughts to flow freely. The Water Rat  gives tender advice whenever it faces conflict. This type of Rat is very concerned with personal development and higher learning. It has a keen eye and is a good writer. Its imagination reflects its distinct point of view.