Happy New Year! . . . again!

If you woke up at dawn this morning with an overpowering urge to cock-a-doodle-doo, there is no need to panic—today is Chinese New Year and marks the beginning of the Year of The Rooster.

In a 12-year cycle of Chinese astrology, the 12 signs of the zodiac are represented by different animals. The year of The Rooster—the tenth sign of the Chinese zodiac—most closely corresponds to Jupiter in Virgo in the Vedic system.

Overall, the message for the Year of The Rooster is to keep focused on the big picture. Pay attention to the details, but don’t let them bog you down or sidetrack you from long-term goals. The same holds true for the way in which we view ourselves—don’t become so preoccupied with your own concerns that you fail to hear what others are telling you. Be expansive of spirit—don’t be critical or take offense at insignificant slights.

This can be a challenging year both emotionally and career-wise, but it can also be a year of good fortune if restraint, patience and common sense are regularly practiced. Think before you speak, double check your facts before making assertions and don’t needlessly complicate situations that are simple and straightforward.

Most importantly—enjoy the New Year!