The recent Chinese New Year has ushered in the Year of the Horse. This year’s Chinese New Year fell on Jan. 31, bringing the Year of the Snake to an end. Chinese New Year is China’s most significant holiday, kicking off a two-week period of celebrations around the country. Here’s a closer look at how the Chinese lunar calendar works, and what to expect in the year ahead.
China’s calendar is believed to have originated during the Han dynasty (206 BC to 220 AD). It’s a 12-year cycle, and each year is connected to one of the 12 animals in the Chinese Zodiac. The zodiac, known as Sheng Xiao, features the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Each animal is also associated with a specific element, such as fire, wood or water.
Different years carry different qualities, and understanding this can help you relate more effectively to your Chinese supplier. The Year of the Horse is generally regarded as a positive year, with people looking forward to success and happy events. The horse is a good omen in Chinese culture, and this carries through to the zodiac interpretation.
The Year of the Horse is particularly positive in the business world. It’s connected with leadership, decision making, and taking decisive action. There’s a focus on the successful conclusion to current ventures, and finishing things ahead of time. Profits are assured. The overtones of the year are happiness, good health and prosperity. The Year of the Horse is considered an excellent time to launch new things and an advantageous time to travel.
People born under the Year of the Horse are also believed to have many of these traits. They’re strong leaders with high levels of energy. Horses stay active, always seeking out new challenges and approaching life with an energetic zeal. They’re also natural performers and great with people. Whether it’s cultivating a one-on-one relationship or taking center stage, people born in the Year of the Horse are natural leaders, sales professionals and communicators.
The Chinese calendar offers a unique perspective. For companies doing business with China, it’s helpful to take the time to get to know the system and its implications for the year ahead. If you’re ready to connect with sourcing partners in China, contact Mawson Global today for assistance with your global sourcing needs.