If you’re well-versed in Western astrology, you probs read your horoscope every month, brace yourself whenever Mercury goes retrograde, and get excited each time your Sun sign’s season rolls around (happy Aquarius season, btw). But, while you might know your natal chart like the back of your hand, you may be less familiar with your Chinese zodiac sign and how it reflects your personality.
While Western and Chinese astrology differ in the time periods assigned to each sign—Western astrology is based on months, while Chinese astrology is based on years—the two share many similarities, says Laura Lau, who co-wrote The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes with her late mom, renowned Chinese astrologer Theodora Lau. “I view both [types of astrology] kind of like languages,” she explains. “In my life, people will say, ‘Oh, well, he’s a Gemini,’ or ‘She’s just such a Capricorn.’ And you kind of invert that with Chinese horoscopes...my family has always said, ‘Well, this person’s just impulsive. They’re a Horse—what can you expect?’”
Meet the Experts: Laura Lau is a Chinese-American writer and co-author of The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes, which she co-wrote with her late mother, renowned Chinese astrologer Theodora Lau. She is based in Los Angeles, California.
Susan Levitt, is a professional astrologer, feng shui consultant and author of Taoist Astrology. She’s based in San Francisco, California.
Chinese astrology uses 12 different animal signs: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. “They all have big reputations,” says Lau.
Each Chinese New Year—which runs from January 22, 2023 to February 9, 2024, this lunar cycle—correlates with a different animal sign. “There are also elements that go through a [two-year] cycle alongside the animals,” says Lau. That means that, every two years, the reigning animal sign also has an association with one of five natural elements: earth, metal, water, wood, and fire. For example, 2023 is the year of the Water Rabbit, explains Lau. Last year, the element was also water, as it was the year of the Water Tiger. “The next couple of years will be wood,” says Lau.
Because there are twelve signs and five elements, it takes 60 years for an animal sign and element combination to repeat. (1963 was the last time it was the year of the Water Rabbit!) “The elements can also change the energy of the animal sign, so that adds another layer, too,” notes Lau.
So, what does this all mean? Well, since Rabbits are known for being very social, romantic, and friendly, 2023 is going to be a big year for communication, relationships, and reconnection, explains Lau.
Ahead, experts explain what your Chinese zodiac sign says about you and what you can expect from the year of the Water Rabbit.
Okay, so how can I find out my Chinese zodiac sign?
Your main animal sign correlates with the year you were born (and repeats on a 12-year cycle), but Lau encourages those interested in learning more about their Chinese zodiac sign to dig deeper.
“Most people’s first experience with [Chinese astrology] is finding out which animal you are by looking up your birthday in some sort of chart or a placemat at a restaurant,” she says. “But, just like charts in Western astrology, when you do your chart in Chinese astrology, there’s an animal that corresponds to the month, day, and hour that you were born. When you look up your month or your hour [in addition to your year] you can see how there are shades of those other personalities within your character.”
For example, you might have been born in the year of the Ox but the hour of the Rooster, and that can explain a part of yourself that you didn’t quite understand before. (FYI: You can quickly find your sign with this calculator.)
How do the five elements affect the Chinese zodiac signs?
Lau explains that each animal sign in the Chinese zodiac is associated with a fixed element with its own unique personality traits. For example, the Rat, Ox, and Boar are all fixed water signs; the Tiger, Rabbit, and Dragon are wood; the Snake, Horse, and Sheep are fixed fire; and lastly, the Monkey, Rooster, and Dog are all metal, she notes.
However, as the elements are constantly shifting—every two years, to be exact—the element of your birth year dominates over the fixed element of your animal, says Lau. “So, while the Rabbit has a fixed element of wood, anyone born [this Lunar New Year] would be a Water Rabbit, and that element of water would have the most impact on their personality.”
What are the characteristics of each Chinese zodiac sign?
Rabbit
Born in 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
“Rabbits are known to have great taste and are lovers of the fine arts,” says Lau. People born under this animal sign are also friendly, sensitive, artistic, and even-tempered, making them popular with friends, adds Susan Levitt, a professional astrologer and author of Taoist Astrology.
This Chinese zodiac sign loves being around other people and hates being alone, prompting Rabbits to try to adapt in any social situation. They also love romance and are great in relationships—but they’re not into confrontation, and go out of their way to avoid conflict.
If you were born in the year of the Rabbit, expect “a chance to reconnect with past friendships and just [enjoy] the good life” this year, says Lau. Rabbits are known for enjoying the finer things in life, whether that’s leisure time with loved ones or traveling to must-visit locales, she adds. So, expect 2023 to be a year filled with adventure, frequent get-togethers, and growth.
Tiger
Born in 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
“The Tiger is known for being a really dynamic, idealistic animal and [is] extremely impulsive,” says Lau. “[This sign] has a big personality, a huge ego, is a big procrastinator, [and] really likes to be right.”
Tigers also tend to have a lot of relationships and are very spontaneous and romantic, notes Lau. But, even when they make a mistake, they don’t really regret it. “If they feel like they’re going into a situation where they’re being treated with respect, [they approach it with the perspective of:] ‘Let’s just try it out, and if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. At least I tried,’” says Lau.
Rat
Born in 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
“Typically, Rats are known for being very family-focused,” says Lau. “They’ll stay close to home.” If you were born in the year of the Rat, you’re also known for being clever, funny, creative, and optimistic—but frugal, adds Levitt.
Rats tend to be super observant, are quick to take action, and love having friends and family around, per Levitt. Your charm and humor quickly help you win over other people, and you’re pretty good at fitting in no matter the situation.
Ox
Born in 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Oxes are steady and loyal. This sign values honesty and integrity in people, says Levitt. They’re also persistent and aren’t swayed by others’ opinions. A big fan of cozy evenings at home, Oxes don’t need huge romantic gestures to feel loved.
If you are an Ox, you believe in hard work and dedication, and like getting recognized for being awesome at your job. Just don’t let that get you down if your office isn’t that kind of place—you know your worth and, if you feel under-appreciated, it may be better to go someplace where you know you’ll be valued.
Dragon
Born in 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
The Dragon is the most popular animal sign (meaning, there’s a baby boom every year of the Dragon) because it’s associated with legends and is known for having strength and leadership qualities, says Lau.
Dragons are also super independent and love their freedom, which may explain why they tend to marry later in life, if at all, says Levitt. People born in the year of the Dragon want to make a big impact on the world, but can get frustrated if their dreams aren’t realized. Still, there’s a lot they can do when they put their mind to it.
Snake
Born in 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
Snakes are an interesting animal sign, says Lau, because their personalities are so mysterious to some, while to others, they’re like an open book.
Snakes are social when they want to be, but they also know when they just need some “me time,” says Levitt. If you were born in the year of the Snake, you’re also extremely determined and are great at making careful plans to achieve your dreams. While a Snake’s mysterious personality can make them seem aloof, when they do let others get close to them, they see how sensitive, compassionate, and funny the Snake really is.
Horse
Born in 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
“Horses are generally known to have a very adventurous [spirit],” says Lau. They’ve also got a rep for having “wild teen and young adult lives,” she adds. So, if you’re a parent of someone born during the year of the Horse, buckle up.
Horses are also bright, open, cheerful, and naturally charm the heck out of people wherever they go, says Levitt. They love being around others and are always up for a good party. If you’re a Horse, you likely have strong opinions and aren’t afraid to share them, but sometimes that can turn people off. You love feeling carefree and tend to succeed at whatever you try to achieve, thanks to your amazing instincts.
Sheep
Born in 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
If you were born in the year of the Sheep, you are kind, empathetic, and naturally creative, says Levitt. You love beauty and like to surround yourself with it. You also know the importance of having some quality alone time and need those moments to recharge.
While you’re generally pretty mild-mannered and calm, you tend to have an independent streak. You don’t like to be put in tough situations, but when push comes to shove, you can handle it, explains Levitt. You also don’t like to be told what to do and hate to compromise, which can be a sticking point in relationships.
Monkey
Born in 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
“Monkeys are known to be very clever—they’re problem-solvers and inventors,” says Lau. If you were born in the year of the Monkey, you’re also good at going after what you want, adds Levitt. You have strong leadership potential, which easily earns you the trust of others. However, you don’t like being told what to do, which can be tricky sometimes in group situations.
You can be playful and romantic in relationships, but you may have trouble staying committed to one person because you’re always looking for the next exciting thing.
Rooster
Born in 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Roosters are known for being perfectionists, says Lau. That can serve you well...and frustrate you when things don’t go your way. You also have a sense of duty, dignity, and pride, and like to be noticed—you hate blending in, adds Levitt.
Those born in this animal year excel at communicating, have great judgment, and a strong work ethic. Because you strive for perfection, you hate wasting time or money, says Levitt. You’re quick and flexible and can be thrown into situations at the last minute and still thrive.
Dog
Born in 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
You’re loyal, honest, and trustworthy, which is why so many people love being in your orbit, says Levitt. People born in the year of the Dog don’t hesitate to make sacrifices for people and ideas they believe in, and they always see through the commitments they make, she explains.
If this is your animal sign, you’re direct and frank, and can’t be bothered with silly little details. You also like to be spontaneous and love making last-minute plans. However, you’re very by-the-book, and you prefer that other people do the same.
Pig
Born in 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Pigs are kind, honest, and peaceful, says Levitt. You hate arguments but won’t hide your emotions, even if it leads to a conflict. If you were born in the year of the Pig, you’re optimistic and fun-loving, and you’re generous with your friends, she adds. You’re also quick to forgive when people screw up and are willing to make sacrifices for those you love.
You go out of your way to make people feel at home and like to surprise friends with little gifts to show them how much you care. You also prefer to keep a close circle of friends who appreciate the kindness and love you show them on the reg.
Which Chinese zodiac signs are most compatible?
Chinese astrology is often used to assess the potential success of a couple, says Lau. “In the past, we’ve looked to it for matchmaking and unions,” she adds. (Some people even look at the dates two businesses were founded to see if they’re compatible before pursuing a merger.)
Within the Chinese zodiac, there are four groups of animals that typically have an affinity for one another, according to Lau. These are:
- Rat, Dragon, and Monkey
- Ox, Rooster, and Snake
- Tiger, Dog, and Horse
- Rabbit, Sheep, and Boar
Which Chinese zodiac signs are least compatible?
It’s easy to tell which animals have conflicting relationships, says Lau. All you have to do is look at a Chinese zodiac sign wheel—the animals that are right across from each other are kept that far apart for a reason. For example, right across from the Tiger is the Monkey. Turn the wheel to the next year, which is the Rabbit, and right across from it is the Rooster.
But, just because these signs are on opposite sides of the wheel doesn’t mean they have opposing characteristics. In fact, the conflict often stems from everything they have in common. “You know the saying, ‘Oh, you guys are so much alike. Of course you couldn’t get along.’?” says Lau. “It’s a different shade of a personality. So, it’s like you’re either going to get along great, or you’re going to hate one another.”
In Chinese culture, when opposite signs date, people often think they won’t last that long, but Lau isn’t surprised by the mutual attraction. “There’s always a little bit of chemistry in your frenemy. There’s something that draws you to each other to even want to have a disagreement,” she says. “So, I don’t think it’s a surprise that, in romance, people try it out, and, a lot of times, it’s fiery in the result.”
Okay, so what does all this mean for the year of the Water Rabbit?
How well you fare this year is based on the relationship between your animal sign and the animal who is “running” the year, says Lau. Basically, they’re the “boss,” and all the other animals just have to learn how to deal with that personality for the year. It’ll be a harder year for the Rooster, since that animal sign is directly across from the Rabbit. (Ahem, sorry to those born in 1969, 1981, 1993, and 2005.)
Watch this to learn more about Lunar New Year traditions and celebrations:
But it won’t necessarily be smooth sailing for Rabbit signs, either. “The general belief is that when it’s your sign, it’s a year to be cautious because it’s difficult to kind of read yourself,” says Lau. Two signs—the Pig and the Sheep—have received the luck of the draw. Because they’re in an affinity triangle with the Rabbit, it’s likely that they’ll have an easier time.
Generally speaking, Lau expects this year to be calmer than previous ones. There will be an emphasis on self-care, open communication, and, for the most part, people will be interacting more positively with one another. Remember: Rabbits don’t like drama, notes Lau.
However, a negative consequence of avoiding conflict is that these animals tend to ghost. “If [Rabbit signs] are going to have any sort of negative interaction, it will be seemingly polite, chatty, and subtle, and then all of a sudden they might disappear,” explains Lau. So, don’t be surprised if you experience some missed connections and get left on “Read” more than a few times by a potential love interest.
Nevertheless, for those naturally communicative signs who tend to be diplomatic and flexible when it comes to tension and conflict (ahem, Sheep, Dog, and Pig signs), the year of the Water Rabbit should be a breeze. But, for those signs who are a bit more stubborn, 2023 might be a challenge, says Lau. (Sorry, Rooster, Tiger, and Horse signs.)
Regardless of your sign, understanding how to navigate the year of the Water Rabbit is essential for everyone. While it’s encouraged to get out this year and really strengthen those budding relationships, if tensions do arise or a new connection (or, reconnection) doesn’t go as expected, remember: It’s okay to reserve a weekend (or a few) for some R&R.
Lindsay Geller is the Lifestyle Director at Women’s Health, where she oversees the Life, Sex & Love, and Relationships sections on WomensHealthMag.com and the Mind section of Women's Health magazine. When she's not writing or editing articles about the latest dating trends and pop culture phenomenons, she's usually watching reality TV or playing with her dog, Lucille (Go Fetch That) Ball.
Naydeline Mejia is an assistant editor at Women’s Health, where she covers sex, relationships, and lifestyle for WomensHealthMag.com and the print magazine. She is a proud graduate of Baruch College and has more than two years of experience writing and editing lifestyle content. When she’s not writing, you can find her thrift-shopping, binge-watching whatever reality dating show is trending at the moment, and spending countless hours scrolling through Pinterest.
