The Animal Sign in You!

Are you an innovative thinker? A goal-oriented achiever? A free spirit? Or a creative, sensitive type? You -- and everyone you know -- belong to one of these four groups linked to each of Chinese astrology's 12 animal signs. You are bound to have a lot in common with people in your group, and you'll probably share a similar worldview with them. On the other hand, it may not be unusual to wonder if someone from a different group is an extraterrestrial!

Not sure about your Chinese animal sign? Visit Astrology.com's Chinese astrology center to learn yours now!

Knowledge of the characteristics of each group can help explain why you click with certain people, but find others hard to understand. Each group can be identified by an inherent major trait: Inventors, Free Spirits, Achievers and Creative-Sensitives.

For example, an employee who can't seem to follow directions and is always looking for a better method could be an Inventor. Are you frustrated with a partner who can't commit? Perhaps you should stop dating Free Spirits. Other examples could include an abrasive coworker who is more focused on goals than social etiquette (an Achiever), or your daydreaming child who is aware of much more than you likely realize (a Creative-Sensitive).

Inventors: Rat, Dragon, Monkey
You will never be completely satisfied with the status quo. In fact, you're at your best when developing new and better ways of doing things. You're often the first to try something new or popularize a new idea. Not bound by others' expectations or assumptions, you're likely to think big and make calculated risks. Do you have the occasional run-in with authority, perhaps? Your friends may wonder if you're a genius ... or just a little crazy!

Achievers: Ox, Snake, Rooster
Achievers usually have an endgame in mind. You don't just float where the winds may take you. Whether by hard work, wits or sheer force of will, you're likely to accomplish everything you set your mind to. You know your strengths, and you experience no guilt in using them to get what you want. You may have a different measure of success than your fellow group member, President Obama (an Ox), but you share in common an indomitable drive to achieve it.

Free Spirits: Tiger, Horse, Dog
You've got style -- your own! With Elvis and Barbra Streisand as fellow Free Spirits, it's clear you love your independence. If anyone tries to keep you on a tight leash, you're right out the door. You also harbor a great need for adventure, and more than anything, you simply want to control your own destiny!

Creative-Sensitives: Rabbit, Sheep, Pig
You find beauty and truth in unexpected places. Transforming the mundane into something truly special brings you joy. Along with all this comes a heightened sensitivity to suffering and the emotions of others, which could be why you tend to avoid conflict. You may be intuitive and naturally talented, but you struggle with developing solid self-confidence and unwavering conviction.