What Does Year Of The Monkey Mean?

Happy Chinese New Year! And, welcome to the Year of the Monkey. Wondering what the Year of the Monkey means? Well, you're not alone. So, I did some digging to find out all that I could about this upcoming year. After all, I'm one of those people who likes to know what I'm in for.

But first, you might be wondering why Chinese New Year doesn't occur on the first of January like it does for most other cultures — why exactly does Chinese New Year happen so much later? Well, the Chinese characterize their new year using their lunisolar cycle, which means the dates of their new year actually change each year. This year, Chinese New Year Day lands on Monday, Feb. 8. But, traditionally, celebrations begin much earlier than even Chinese New Year's Eve — sometimes as early as three weeks before. This entire period of celebration is known as Spring Festival, and the end day is marked by the gorgeous Lantern Festival. Basically, the new year is a big deal in the Chinese culture, filled with tons of dazzling and elaborate festivities.

So, now that you have the backstory and timeline, it's time to dig into the good stuff and find out what exactly we can expect from this upcoming year — the Year of the Monkey. Brace yourselves.

What is the Year of the Monkey?

In Chinese astrology, each year is associated with one of 12 zodiac animal signs, as well as one of five elements — gold, water, wood, fire, and earth. While we split our zodiac based on birth month, the Chinese use this longer time frame of years. However, the concept is essentially the same, in that when you're born is said to have an impact on your personality traits. This year lands on the ninth zodiac sign — the monkey — as well as the element of fire. So, technically, this is the Year of the Fire Monkey.

What's your Chinese zodiac sign?

Curious to know what your Chinese zodiac sign is — and, more importantly, if you're a monkey? Find your birth year below.

Rat: 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960Ox: 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961Tiger: 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962Rabbit: 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963Dragon: 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964Snake: 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965Horse: 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966Sheep: 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967Monkey: 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968Rooster: 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969Dog: 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970Pig: 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971

What personality traits do monkeys have?

Now, let's get back to the Year of the Monkey, shall we? People born during that time — we'll call them monkeys moving forward — are said to be sociable, enthusiastic, and self-assured. But, on the flip side of that coin, they can also be arrogant, selfish, jealous, and irritable.

So, monkeys, what are you in for this coming year? Here's what you need to know to be prepped and ready.

1. It's going to be an unlucky year

Unfortunately, Monkey years are said to be incredibly unlucky for people born in a Year of the Monkey. That hardly seems fair, right? Monkeys should be particularly careful with their health, careers, and relationships. Sorry guys, this just isn't your year.

2. You should expect heated arguments

The fire sign added to this year can lead to more emotional outbursts and impulsivity. So, be on your toes for some heated arguments throughout this year. For those of us who aren't monkeys? We can still anticipate seeing some passionate statements from politicians and people in the entertainment industry. So, it should be quite the year to have a presidential election.

3. There will be more babies on the way

It's said that the Year of the Monkey will increase the amount of babies born. Based on the amount of pregnancy announcements already filling my social media feeds, I feel like this prediction is already holding some water.

4. It could be a year of increased wealth

Well, monkeys, this year can't be all unlucky. Unexpected fortune will find its way to you throughout this year. However, avoid gambling or being showy with your wealth, as it could lead to losing everything.

5. Your relationships may suffer

Alright, back to the bad news. Your relationships might be a little lackluster and colorless throughout the year. And, the more you long for a romantic relationship, the less luck you'll have finding a meaningful one. So, monkeys, if you're currently single, just go with the flow this year. Chinese predictions say you'll have a happy ending if you seize the right opportunities.

Looking for a little extra luck?

Each Chinese zodiac sign comes with lucky things, as well as unlucky things. Throughout this year, the numbers four and nine are lucky, as well as the colors white, blue, and gold. However, stay away from two and seven, and the colors red and pink. Talk about bad timing for Valentine's Day, right?

Images: Getty Images (4); Giphy (5)