Here’s what the Chinese zodiac says about you

By Kathryn Chou and Samantha Lee, INSIDER From Business Insider

Happy Chinese New Year! In honor of the Lunar New Year, here’s an explanation of the Chinese zodiac and what it means for you.

The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, with an animal representing each year. Chinese zodiacs are determined by birth year, so each zodiac gets the spotlight once every 12 years.

According to Chinese folklore, the order of these zodiacs was determined by a race that was won by a clever rat who rode on an ox’s back until it was able to cross the finish line first. Thus the rat is the first animal, followed by the ox.

2017 is the year of the rooster, and it’s believed that anyone born under this sign will have a good year with plenty of luck and opportunities.

According to the Chinese zodiac, your birth year says more than just your age. The Chinese believe that the animal ruling your birth year has a profound influence on your personality, relationships, and destiny.

Which zodiac are you? Keep scrolling to find out and see what it means.

I Graphics_Chinese zodiacs_years
Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER

Samantha Lee/INSIDER
IMAGE: Chinese new year traditions
Bobby Yip/Reuters

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