The Rat is the first sign in the Chinese Zodiac so people that fall under this are natural leaders, pioneers and conquerors. They tend to be hardworking, charming, charismatic, passionate and practical and are blessed with excellent leadership qualities. They are also one of the most systematic and organized of the twelve zodiac signs and can be quite obsessed with detail, intolerant and strict, demanding order, obedience, and perfection.

They are very energetic and versatile and manage to find their way round any obstacles that are put in front of them but they are also cunning, strong willed and unapologetic promoters of their own agendas which often include power and money.

Their natural charm makes them easily able to adapt to many different environments and they are able to make friends with almost anybody. They do tend to be, however, extremely selective when choosing their friends and most will only have a few very close friends that they are prepared to put their trust in.

On the down side, rats can be very controlling and insistent on having everything their own way no matter what the cost. They have very good control of their emotions and often use these to manipulate others both mentally and emotionally.

People born under this sign are often very good at playing mind games and can be calculating, dangerous and cruel if the need arises. If you get on the wrong side of them they will not hesitate to exact revenge at the earliest possible opportunity.

They are generally fair in their dealings and expect exactly the same from others they come in contact with. They can become very offended if they get deceived or feel that their trust has been abused.

Sometimes they set their targets too high, whether it be in their career or their relationships with their friends but, as time goes by, they gradually become a lot more tolerant and idealistic.