The Gregorian Calendar is coming to a close, but the lunisolar calendar will not shift to a new cycle until January 29, 2025. According the the Chinese Zodiac*, we will transition from the Year of the Wood Dragon to the Year of the Wood Snake. In preparation for this new lunisolar cycle, we have an opportunity to consider the unique gifts we all bring to the world. Each sign carries qualities that, when shared, can create a powerful force for change.
Below you will find brief description for each of the 12 Chinese Zodiac Signs and how their strengths can contribute to collective liberation. These are offered as points of inspiration. Take them and assess your individual strengths that make you so beautifully you. Consider what your community needs and how you can plug into networks of care.
👉 Not sure which sign you are? Check out this resource to find your Chinese Zodiac sign. 👈
12 Chinese Zodiac Signs
1. Rat (鼠) – Clever and Resourceful
Rats have a special knack for finding solutions, even in the toughest situations. Their quick minds and thoughtful connections remind us that there’s always a way forward.2. Ox (牛) – Steady and Reliable
Oxen are the calm, steady presence we need in uncertain times. Their patience and unwavering dedication help build the foundation for lasting change.3. Tiger (虎) – Brave and Inspiring
Tigers have hearts full of courage. Their bold actions and fearless spirit light the way, inspiring others to stand strong and dream big.4. Rabbit (兔) – Gentle and Kind
Rabbits bring a softness that heals. Their compassion and ability to listen create spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and safe.5. Dragon (龙) – Visionary and Charismatic
Dragons hold the spark of possibility. Their radiant energy and ability to dream of something greater inspire us to reach for a brighter, more just future.6. Snake (蛇) – Wise and Intuitive
Snakes quietly guide us with their wisdom. Their thoughtful insights and deep understanding help us find clarity and direction.7. Horse (马) – Energetic and Free-Spirited
Horses bring a boundless energy that lifts us up. Their adaptability and enthusiasm remind us that joy and momentum can carry us through challenges.8. Sheep (羊) – Compassionate and Creative
Sheep bring warmth and care, nurturing our spirits. Through their creativity, they share stories and art that move hearts and bring people together.9. Monkey (猴) – Playful and Inventive
Monkeys bring light and laughter. Their clever ideas and joyful energy remind us to find hope and fun, even as we do serious work.10. Rooster (鸡) – Ambitious and Focused
Roosters keep us organized and striving for more. Their precision and determination ensure that every step forward is thoughtful and meaningful.11. Dog (狗) – Loyal and Protective
Dogs have hearts full of love and loyalty. Their commitment to justice and care for others remind us that we’re never alone in this journey.12. Pig (猪) – Generous and Joyful
Pigs bring a sense of abundance and optimism. Their open hearts show us the beauty of sharing and the power of hope.
How It All Comes Together
When these gifts are shared, they create something truly magical:
- Strategists (Rat, Snake) guide us with their cleverness and insight.
- Sustainers (Ox, Rooster) keep us grounded and ensure progress stays steady.
- Inspirers (Tiger, Dragon) ignite our spirits with courage and vision.
- Healers (Rabbit, Sheep) nurture the heart of the movement, building care and connection.
- Energizers (Horse, Monkey) keep us moving forward with joy and adaptability.
- Guardians (Dog, Pig) protect the hope and love that hold us together.
Each of us has a role to play, and together, we are stronger. Some existing frameworks to help sharpen our understanding of roles within movements, you can also read up on:
- Callings & Roles for Collective Liberations by Slow Factory
- Social Change Ecosystem Map by Building Movement Project
**Important Note on Lunisolar Zodiac Systems**
While this interpretation is based on the Chinese zodiac system, similar lunisolar zodiac traditions exist in many other Asian and Southeast Asian cultures. Variations of these zodiacs include, but are not limited to, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Cambodia, and Tibet.
