Birth year: 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

Those born in the Year of the Rat will need to focus on fostering clear communication within the team this year. Your leadership will benefit from ensuring everyone is aligned and well-informed. Be proactive in addressing any misunderstandings or confusion before they become obstacles, and keep everyone on the same page as you work toward common goals.

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Birth year: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021

Oxes, adaptability will be the key to your leadership in 2025. While your natural approach may be grounded and steady, flexibility is necessary to navigate unexpected challenges. Embrace new methods or ideas and encourage your team to adjust as needed, especially when circumstances shift rapidly or obstacles arise.

Birth year: 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022

If you are born in the Year of the Tiger, develop a collaborative leadership style for 2025. While your decisiveness and assertiveness are important, balancing them with a focus on collaboration will help you achieve better results. Work towards building stronger, more unified teams where everyone’s voice is heard, and mutual support is the foundation of your leadership.

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Birth year: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

If you are born in the Year of the Rabbit, this year you will need to lead with clarity and confidence. Take charge of your team's direction by being decisive and clear in your objectives. You may be naturally supportive, but in 2025, make sure you guide your team with a firm hand to maintain focus on key goals and outcomes. Encourage innovation while keeping priorities in line.

Birth year: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

If you are born in the Year of the Dragon, you will need to strengthen your leadership skills through resilience. While you’ll face challenges, pushing through them with determination and patience will allow you to grow. Be mindful of any setbacks in the Year of the Snake, and actively work to manage them with a positive mindset. Setbacks are part of the journey, but with perseverance, they can be transformed into opportunities for growth.

Read more: Protecting the Land of the Thunder Dragon: Karma Phuntsho prepares Bhutan for the future

Birth year: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014

If you are born in the Year of the Horse, this year you will need to cultivate emotional intelligence and patience in your leadership. Recognise when your team needs guidance and be sure to offer support when necessary. Lead with a calm demeanour and prioritise clarity. Be patient during times when progress feels slow or uncertain. Your steady presence will provide stability for your team during challenging times.

Birth year: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015

Goats need to prioritise resilience and careful decision-making in 2025. This year, your leadership should focus on staying grounded and offering emotional support to your team. During difficult times, guide your team through uncertainty with patience, and be sure to think through every decision before acting. Help your team remain focused and steady during turbulent moments.

Read more: My First: How Tipsy Collective’s David Gan steered the business in turbulent times

Birth year: 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016

For those born in the Year of the Monkey, balance ambition with caution in your leadership. While there will be many opportunities for growth and success, take care not to rush decisions or actions. It’s important to remain level-headed, especially when external pressures or potential setbacks arise. Encourage thoughtful planning and strategic decision-making within your team.

Birth year: 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017

For roosters, this is the year to prioritise transparency and stability within your leadership. Focus on clear communication with your team to ensure everyone understands the direction you’re taking. When faced with challenges, rely on your ability to provide steady guidance and remain composed, so your team feels confident in your decisions and leadership.

Read more: How can I successfully navigate a career change and step up into a leadership role?

Birth year: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018

Those born in the Year of the Dog will need to lead with empathy and offer clarity in tough situations. Your leadership will be most effective when you provide both emotional support and practical solutions. Be there for your team, especially during stressful or difficult times. Stay calm and composed, offering reassurance to those who need it, while keeping everyone on track with the big picture.

Birth year: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019

If you are born in the Year of the Pig, focus on introspection and thoughtful decision-making. Your leadership will thrive when you carefully assess situations and avoid rushing into decisions, especially regarding finances or long-term planning. Encourage your team to adopt a similar approach, taking the time to weigh options and ensure steady progress without unnecessary risks.

For more insights and guidance on how to lead effectively in the Year of the Snake, explore Dato Joey Yap’s Thrivers Guide.

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