Each of the signs is associated with different qualities, strengths, and weaknesses, and they’re also further divided by their element, as well as where they fall in the yin-versus-yang spectrum. “They are bold pioneers,” Lin explains, adding that Tigers are also analytical, practical yet ambitious, restless—and a bit reckless. You can think of them as the apex predator of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. “Intent with their eyes on their prey or the prize, they’ll do whatever they can to conquer,” Lin explains. Tigers also always want to be the best, taking great pride in their accomplishments and competency. “Tigers are fiercely independent, aggressive, and can cover a lot of territories, which means they need a lot of space physically and energetically,” Lin says. And as feng shui educator and Chinese astrology expert Anjie Cho tells mbg, Tigers have a lot of big and active energy, “They’re dynamic and unpredictable and always pushing against the boundaries. There’s also this energy of being self-centered because tigers are solitary animals,” she adds. “Like metal, [those born under this Tiger year] want to project a glamorous image of themselves. The combination of Metal and Tiger produces a person who is direct, unorthodox, stubborn, drastic in their behavior,” they note, adding Metal Tigers flourish in competitive environments. And as Cho notes, these folks are also protective and refined. “Think of a tiger in metal armor—that’s really intense,” she explains. “Metal is also connected to the mouth, so someone born in the Metal Tiger year may be more communicative,” she adds. As Lin explains, Water Tigers are also known for being more open-minded and honest, always seeking new ideas and experiences. “The Water element combined with Tiger personality gives them a calmer nature. They are excellent judges of the truth and more intuitively perceptive about the feelings of others,” Lin adds. These people tend to be more friendly, community and group-oriented, generous, and charming, Lin explains, adding, “Wood Tigers attract many friends and supporters and have a talent for bringing different types of people together.” Cho says you can tell a Fire Tiger by the sparkle in their eye and their passionate nature, with Lin adding these folks are constantly seeking ways to channel their boundless energy and ideas into action. “Out of all tigers, they are the realists—more of a worrier than a daredevil. Still, they’re very driven and self-motivated, like all Tigers,” Lin adds. As far as incompatibility, Tigers may have some difficulty getting along with Monkeys. “If you meet a Monkey and are generally irritated by their ways of being, see what characteristics they have that you can learn and grow from,” Lin says. Generally speaking, though, Tigers are loyal in their relationships but can also become possessive and jealous. As such, Lin says it’s important for Tigers to check that jealousy and let their partner know when they need reassurance. Tigers also appreciate plenty of space and freedom within their relationships. Because Tigers can be so solitary, Cho adds that it’s a good idea for them to ask themselves if they’re being too solitary, or inversely, if they need some alone time in the name of self-care. “The Tiger must learn to channel their energy and excessive enthusiasm to accomplish their goals,” Lin notes, adding Tigers won’t be enthusiastic in careers where they’re no longer learning or picking up skills. These folks can also have a “volatile” relationship with money, spending, and saving, according to Lin, who says their ability to be financially successful lies with their ability to persevere against their impatience for quick and fast results. It’s also important they set solid financial goals and outline strategies to achieve them. “Overall,” Lin explains, “Tigers trust in their own divine luck and charisma to see them through. When their eyes are on the prize, they can really accomplish anything they set out to do.” Tigers may also bite off more than they can chew in the health realm, so they would do well to assess things clearly from the get-go. “Get grounded. Practice meditation. Do movement-based exercises for the root chakra to ground into this earthly reality,” Lin suggests, adding not to make too many big decisions unless you’ve properly assessed the whole situation. “Remember your intentions as well as your limitations,” they add.
