Chinese Sign Profile: Ox

Although steadfast and solid, the Ox is no mere pasture cow. This powerful creature is a born leader, dependable and with an innate ability to achieve great things. Even so, Oxen tend to be plodding and methodical -- they approach projects in a step-by-step manner and never lose sight of their goal. They are also tireless workers, sticklers for detail and they believe in either doing things right or not at all. The world may perceive Oxen as far too serious and incapable of relaxing. This is because they are less than social by nature and tend to become introverted in a group. To make things worse, they can't be bothered with what other people think; they prefer to do what makes them feel best. Behind that calm facade, though, lives an Ox who can feel hurt, lonely and unable to connect with others. Friends and family are a great source of comfort to this beast, even if they don't always understand what makes the Ox tick.

Stubborn and dogmatic, Oxen tend to be quite headstrong people who have no concept of when to back down. Suffice it to say that Oxen don't appreciate being pushed, especially since they think they're the good guys of the Chinese Zodiac. There is some truth to that theory, since the Ox is smart, trustworthy, caring and honourable. If you need honest, steady and unbiased advice, call the Ox.

A good lesson for the mighty Oxen would be to try to overcome a judgmental nature that keeps them from getting close to others. If they can learn to value their own positive qualities, they'll have more room in their hearts for others.

The most compatible match for an Ox is the Snake or Rooster.