Dear Gossips,

By the time most of you read this, I’ll have gotten a haircut. Taking an inch off this morning ahead of the Lunar New Year, per tradition – you cut away the old year and get ready for the growth of the new year. Haircuts are hard for me because I’ve been traumatised so many times in the past by scissors. I once went to a stylist who, without asking, put my hair, which was then halfway down my back, in a ponytail and just chopped it to my neck, while he was still on the phone with someone, half paying attention. That was like a foot and a half of hair gone in seconds. My point is that even though I don’t like having my hair cut, I like luck more than how long my hair is. So, if you have a chance, consider a trim this weekend. Say goodbye to the Dog and welcome the Pig. 

I’ll be welcoming the Pig by cleaning. Jacek cleared the fridge of old sh-t a few days ago, wiped down all the shelves, pulled out the range and scrubbed behind it. We’ll work on the cupboards on Saturday and go hardcore on the baseboards and walls and windows on Sunday. For those of you who are new to this, this is also an annual Chinese tradition: clearing out the old luck to attract the new luck, preparing for new beginnings. A reminder then – wash your hair on Monday, New Year’s Eve, because washing your hair on New Year’s Day is like washing away the luck of the new year. 

We are down to the final three days of the 12 Days of Lunar New Year. It’s the Rooster’s turn. Beyoncé is a Rooster. Two years ago today she broke the internet when she announced that she was pregnant with twins. It’s one of my favourite gossip anniversaries. 

That winged horse that we’ve been talking about is going to really affect the Rooster during the Year of the Pig. It may be a hectic and frantic year ahead. The Rooster will be super busy but there is a problem-solving star to guide you through the intensity. It will take care of you if you work hard. 

You may, however, because of the relentless pace, have some confidence issues. Which is why Roosters must be careful this year. It’s more important than ever to pay attention to the details. There’s a Chinese saying that roughly translates to “it’s only a step between heaven and hell” so keep your eyes open and stay focused. Don’t get so busy that you miss the right path. And if you do find yourself overwhelmed, remember your hobbies, old and new. You may find that you are more interested than ever in reading and or cooking. Spend time on these activities. They will relax and recharge you.  

1969 Roosters may encounter competition at work this year. Don’t run yourself down and watch for cuts. Spend time with family and friends on your birthday. 

1981 Roosters could be helped by benefactors. Do not refuse help. It may not be extended in the future if you turn it down. 

1993 Roosters are advised to be more humble and extra cautious. Reduce high risk activities, keep your eyes open, and stay alert.  

2005 Roosters may require additional parental supervision. There’s a wayward alert due to bad influences. 

Romance for all Roosters this year is a possibility. And it might happen when you least expect and when you’re not looking. 

Mental health must be a priority for Roosters because it’s going to be so busy. Reduce stress every chance you get and resist the urge to be alone. Don’t hide or lock yourself away. You may find that when you engage and share, solutions will present themselves. Change is afoot for the Rooster. It’s going to happen, there’s no avoiding it. Go where the change takes you. 

In February and March, see the doctor for a checkup and bloodwork.

In March and April, even though you want to do, you may not be able to help when asked. Because you don’t have luck to give away this year. Of course you want to be of assistance to others. But your true value this year might be not providing it yourself but connecting the person who needs it to someone else. 

In May and June, be mindful of injuries. When we get busy, we get careless. Carelessness can have serious consequences for Roosters, especially this year. 

For Roosters, this is not a year to be aggressive. Go time will happen but it’s just not now. Keep a low profile and this in mind: you are your own battery. Which, sure, can be scary. Because you can only depend on you. But also? It’s exciting. Because you can be your own boost. Think of this year as a charging year. You are generating your own power so that you can spend it when you’re ready. 

On Monday: the Dog. 

Have a great weekend!

Yours in gossip,

Lainey