The Sheep ( 羊 ) (also translated as Goat) is the eighth sign of the 12-year cycle of animals. The Year of the Sheep/Goat is associated with the earthly branch symbol 未 (wèi).
Sheep are the good samaritans of the Chinese zodiac. They are gentle mannered and on the shy side. Being very sincere they are easily taken by a sob story. Sheep people are compassionate, understanding of others’ faults and quick to forgive.
Sheep like to set their own hours and will not tolerate too much discipline. They are also very offended if they are criticized. They cannot work well under pressure and must be allowed to do things at their own speed. Sheep need somebody to discipline them, though, in order to utilize their talents. They usually find someone to look after and care for them.
Good fortune smiles upon the sheep. They benefit from wills and inheritances. Even in the roughest of times, the Sheep always acquire the basic needs. Sheep get their own way without force or violence. They have that passive endurance that drives you mad. Eventually they wear you down with their pleas. You just can’t break them!
Sheep never come right out and discuss what’s bothering them. You pry it out of them bit by bit. When all else fails, yell at them, and bang things around. They should be impressed and might unfold all their secret woes; then, you can clear the air. The Sheep are family people. They never forget anyone’s birthday, and you had better not forget theirs! Sheep worry, too. They want others to cheer them up and tell them everything will be okay.
Sheep overspend and should avoid dealing with money. They find it hard to be practical and would love a life of luxury and ease. Ugly things will depress Sheep. They hate to displease anyone especially their loved ones. They will edge around an issue rather than take a firm stand. Difficulties are a delicate issue with Sheep. They are too sensitive and often overreact. Reassure them often.
Romance is a part of the Sheep’s being. Moonlight and roses, soft music and candlelight will get them every time. They tend to view the world through rose-colored glasses. Sheep do not usually have to work hard. Good things just happen naturally. They need bright, airy surroundings and excel in creative fields. Appreciation of their talents make Sheep glow, and with encouragement, they can go far in life.
羊 (yang) is pronounced ‘young’
* 13 February 1907 – 1 February 1908: Fire Goat
* 1 February 1919 – 19 February 1920: Earth Goat
* 17 February 1931 – 5 February 1932: Metal Goat
* 5 February 1943 – 24 January 1944: Water Goat
* 24 January 1955 – 11 February 1956: Wood Goat
* 9 February 1967 – 29 January 1968: Fire Goat
* 28 January 1979 – 15 February 1980: Earth Goat
* 15 February 1991 – 3 February 1992: Metal Goat
* 1 February 2003 – 21 January 2004: Water Goat
* 19 February 2015 – 7 February 2016: Wood Goat
(Every 12 years)