blogs / 29 JAN 2022
Get ready for a Roaring Good Year in the Year of the Tiger!
Lunar New Year, which falls on February 1, 2022, we usher in the Year of The Tiger! In Chinese culture, the Tiger is considered the "King of all Beasts" and is a symbol of strength, tenacity, and boldness. Tigers love adventure and are extremely competitive and confident. They are also known to uphold integrity and are protective yet supportive at the same time. These traits combined result in the beast being held in high regard and well-liked by its peers and inner circle.
2022 is the Year of the Water Tiger
The Tiger is the third animal of the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. Do you know how the animals got their order in the Chinese Zodiac? Legend has it that to determine the order, a race was held. The Tiger—being the King of all Beasts—thought he had it in the bag but did not expect the strong, hardworking Ox to outpace him. In the end, the tiger came in third while the Ox cinched second place.
In addition to the 12-year cycle corresponding to each of the animals in the Chinese Zodiac, there are five Elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) which are associated with their own "life force" or "chi."
This energy blends with the corresponding animal to determine each year's fortune. This year is the year of the Water Tiger, also known as the Black Tiger. The water element is associated with a running current, a river, or a waterfall—not static. And by association, it denotes fluidity and flexibility.
Challenges for Relocation in China
As one of the world's most prominent and celebrated festivals, Lunar New Year is also the cause of the world’s largest annual mass migrations. In pre-COVID years, 85 million people were expected to leave the major cities to visit their families in rural parts of the country. Traveling during this time can be stressful and challenging, with airports, roads, and trains overcrowded and uncomfortable.
This year, as Covid-19 cases are still observed in various cities, government officials have advised against traveling unless necessary. Thus, traffic might be smoother and less crowded. However, if you are planning to relocate during this period, you should be prepared for delays in areas such as immigration, household goods shipment and moving services, as most offices and shops will be closed. It is not surprising that nearly all companies avoid relocating employees during this time, with many avoiding the weeks leading up to and after the New Year, too!
International assignees who are planning to travel and use public transportation in China over the holidays should buy their tickets in advance. If you plan to drive, allow extra time for your journey as there may be heavy congestion on all major roads. You should also take extra health precautions and stay informed of imposed pandemic control measures at your destination to avoid unexpected delays during your trip.
What to Expect in the Year of the Water Tiger
A Water Tiger Year combines energetic and enterprising traits with a flowing current that can only push one forward. It is a wonderful time to learn new things and adapt with opportunities to advance and progress. With the vitality of the Tiger and the momentum of the water current, you will get the additional nudge to propel further in a year of great accomplishments and innovation.
What to Watch Out For
This will be a very dynamic year, so try to grab opportunities as they present themselves—and there will be many! The daring and confident nature of the Tiger will push you forward, but do keep this impetuous nature in check and do not succumb to impulsiveness, which may turn opportunities into chaos. There will also be a lot of unpredictability ahead.
The Year of the Tiger brings much hope and anticipation as we look to a better 2022. Start a new job or venture into a new hobby—be bold and you shall achieve!
Here at Cartus, we wish you an auspicious Lunar New Year and may blessings be abundance upon you and your family!
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Racheal Foo
