The Element Encyclopedia of Birthdays

It is extremely important for those born on this day to develop their self-confidence and to accept that the opinions of others, although valuable, are not final. In this way they will be able to let their frustration go and find the freedom of expression that is so crucial for their happiness and fulfillment.

On the dark side

Isolated, intense, dreamy

At your best

Unusual, intuitive, generous

Love Hot and intense

Relationships with people born on January 7 tend to be very intense; they are attracted to people who are broad minded, unusual or different in some way. Until they develop their self-confidence, they are not always good at asking for what they want, or letting their guard down and showing their true feelings. However, when they feel secure in themselves and in a relationship, they are loyal and passionate partners.

Health Sleep matters

People born on this day tend to be highly sensitive, and as a result fatigue and stress can be a problem. They are particularly susceptible to digestive disorders and need to make sure they eat a fiber-rich diet and take plenty of exercise. Unusual forms of exercise like Tai Chi may appeal. Because fatigue is a common problem, they may need to make sure they eat plenty of foods rich in iron, such as tofu, turkey and legumes, to protect against anemia—a common cause of fatigue—and get more sleep. They should aim for between six and eight hours a night because a good night’s sleep is extremely important for them. A glass of chamomile tea can help them unwind before sleep.

Career Born planners

These people thrive in careers that require them to use their mind and their imaginative powers. They make great teachers, writers, career counselors and artists, but their humanitarian focus may also lead them toward charitable or social work. They are willing to work behind the scenes as a producer, programmer or agent and their superb organizational skills could also point them to roles in administration, research or management.

Destiny To unite opposites

The life path of those born on this day is to learn to have faith in themselves. Once they can do that, their destiny is to share their talent with the world by crossing boundaries, healing differences and uniting opposites.

Power Thought

“I am good enough just the way I am”

January 7

Signs & symbols

Sun sign: Capricorn

Ruling planet: Saturn, the teacher

Symbol: The Horned Goat

Birth date ruler: Neptune, the speculator

Tarot card: The Chariot (resilience)

Favorable numbers: 7, 8

Lucky days: Saturday and Monday, especially when these days fall on 7 and 8 of the month

Lucky colors: Black, gray, rouge, sky blue

Birthstone: Garnet

8 January the birthday of dynamic strength

Your greatest challenge is…

handling the feeling that others aren’t giving you enough respect

The way forward is…

to understand that respect is a two-way street; if you want respect, treat others with respect first.

You’re drawn to people born on…

December 22 to January 20

You share a mutual respect and admiration for each other and this creates a powerful and exciting dynamic.

Luck maker

Give and receive in equal measure

When you help or give to someone else, without expecting anything in return, you double your chances of both luck and happiness.

People born on January 8 always make their presence felt. They are born with stunning potential to rise and shine above all obstacles and make an impact on the world around them.

Those born on this day expect to be acknowledged by others; as a result, others always come away impressed. Single-minded, hard-working, courageous and forceful, they have the potential within them to achieve almost everything they want. Because of their determined nature there can sometimes be a tendency to overdo things, so they need to make sure they do not become too obsessive by spending time with friends and loved ones, and having plenty of interests.

The belief, enthusiasm and dedication that people born on this day have for projects they love is not the only thing that makes them stand out from the crowd. They also possess great charm and sensitivity, and the ability to put people at ease. Although naturally intuitive, it is important that they do not let practicality and worldly ambition obscure this talent as it will serve them well in all areas of life, in particular their close personal relationships. After the age of forty-three their intuition and emotional sensitivity often increase.

The irony is that despite their almost superhuman confidence and self-possessed exterior, underneath they do from time to time feel anxious and insecure, with a tendency to wallow in dark moods and become despondent and demanding. Their hidden insecurities can also manifest in an impatience and intolerance of others or an egotistical desire to put others down. Every now and again they need to step off the pedestal they have made for themselves so that they can devote both their time and their considerable energy to nurturing friendships based on mutual love, understanding and respect.

If they can stay positive and develop tolerance and humility in their relationships with others, there is nothing to hold back people born on this day. They are meant to shine and, with their inspired awareness, inner strength and self-discipline, shine they well.

On the dark side

Egotistical, impatient, intolerant

At your best

Courageous, forceful, authoritative

Love Intense and passionate

Those born on January 8 can have the tendency to be controlling; in some circumstances they may become obsessive and jealous. They need to check this tendency as it can destroy relationships. Having said that, they can be extremely warm and generous in a relationship when they feel secure enough to let down their guard and trust someone else.

Health Time to play

Competitive sports appeal to people born on this day but they might benefit more from playing games like charades, because such games give them a chance to laugh both at themselves and with others. Because they possess a tendency to push themselves too hard, they need to watch out for stress-related illnesses such as headaches, insomnia and depression. They also need to watch their posture, especially if they spend much of their day hunched in front of work or a computer. They should avoid rich food and steer clear of drugs altogether. If stress is a constant part of their daily routine, burning a chamomile—, lavender—or sandalwood-scented candle can produce a calming effect.

Career Born achievers

Whatever career these people choose, they tend to rise to the top, be it in the arts (where they can employ their imagination), the sciences (where they can employ their analytical skills), business (where they can employ their explosive impact on others) or humanitarian work (where they can employ their understanding and sympathetic nature). They can also make great designers and property developers, and their ability to communicate, teach and inspire others may lead them to education, politics, spirituality, medicine and philosophy.

Destiny To rise above the odds

The life path of people born on this day is to rise above the odds. Once they have developed their communication skills and the ability to put others at their ease, their destiny is to show others that the possibilities are always there and that if they keep positive and put in the necessary hard work they will be victorious.

Power Thought

“ Recognizing the positive in others, I recognize the positive in myself”

January 8

Signs & symbols

Sun sign: Capricorn

Ruling planet: Saturn, the teacher

Symbol: The Horned Goat

Birth date ruler: Saturn, the teacher

Tarot card: Strength (passion)

Favorable numbers: 8, 9

Lucky day: Saturday, especially when it falls on 8 and 9 of the month

Lucky colors: Black, gray, rose red and white

Birthstone: Garnet

9 January the birthday of the striver

Your greatest challenge is…

learning not to lose your temper

The way forward is…

to take a break. Go for a walk. A nap can clear things out; so can chatting with friends or putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. If you’re going to lose it, keep your cool until you can blow off some steam somewhere safe.

You’re drawn to people born on…

March 21 to April 20

You share a mutual energy and an adventurous approach to life and to love, making this a hot and passionate union.

Luck maker

Don’t burn your bridges

One of the most effective ways to avoid bad luck is to have as few enemies as possible.

People born on January 9 tend to be fast-acting, thinking and feeling. They want to rise to the top and will do what it takes to get them there. In both their work and their home life they strive for nothing but the best. They demand high standards from both themselves and others, and they detest mediocrity with a passion. Yet because January 9 people place a high value on initiative and their personal freedom, they often prefer to work or forge ahead alone rather than in a group.

So focused are January 9 people on striving that they rarely take time to savor their achievements or even the present moment; they find it particularly hard to relax or switch off. It is of great importance for them to have a partner, friend or even a pet to help them unwind and take themselves and their goals a little less seriously. Typically around the age of forty-two, sometimes sooner, their sensitivity toward others and their inner life becomes more prominent.

January 9 people are amazingly good at overcoming obstacles and difficulties, and can bounce back from almost anything. However in the process of recovery they can also manifest a ruthless side. If knocked down they will claw their way back by whatever means are available, even if that means upsetting trusted friends along the way and making enemies. They need to learn that one of the secrets of success is not to have enemies. Anger, sometimes violent anger, is often their first response, but if they can remain a little more detached and learn some objectivity they will discover that there are always other ways of dealing with a frustrating situation.

Totally fearless, those born on this day have an abundance of admirable qualities. If they can learn to listen to their conscience and strive to maintain balance as hard as they strive to attain success, there is nothing to stop them enjoying the liberating benefits of a purposeful life that sparkles with happiness and excitement.

On the dark side

Ruthless, mistrustful, reckless

At your best

Ambitious, forceful, resilient

Love Ardent lovers

People born on January 9 are passionate and ardent lovers. They are forceful and energetic, and need a partner who can understand and keep up with their physical energy. They are also extremely idealistic about relationships and believe in having a soul mate. Family is also extremely important for people born on this day and they are capable of making enormous sacrifice for those they love.

Health Take more time out

Because they tend to drive themselves so hard, those born on this day are prone to stress, fatigue and a lowered immune system. In other words, if they don’t take care of themselves they can lose a lot of time to poor health and infection. It is essential that they take regular time out and eat a healthy and balanced diet to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy. As far as exercise is concerned, gentle exercise is recommended as they can be fatally attracted to extreme and dangerous sports. They may be reluctant to take a gentle daily workout or even go on holiday, but both are essential for them to help restore balance in their lives. A cup of lemon balm herbal tea will help promote digestion and induce calm.

Career Born experimenters

The need to progress means that these people need jobs that promise advancement, variety or excitement. If they are drawn to business, they may be interested in marketing or advertising. Other careers that can attract them include politics, the media, the arts or any job that involves plenty of travel and challenge. Astronomy and computer programming may hold particular appeal. They may well experiment with a variety of careers until they settle in and excel in their chosen vocation.

Destiny To break through barriers

Ambitious and driven, people born on this day lead by example, showing others that going that extra mile really can make a difference. Once they have learned to focus more on the present moment than the future reward, their destiny is to break through outmoded ways of behavior and in the process strive to make the world a better place.

Power Thought

“ I have a peaceful and calming heart and soul”

January 9

Signs & symbols

Sun sign: Capricorn

Ruling planet: Saturn, the teacher

Symbol: The Horned Goat

Birth date ruler: Mars, the warrior

Tarot card: The Hermit (inner strength)

Favorable numbers: 1, 9

Lucky days: Saturday and Tuesday, especially when these days fall on 1 and 9 of the month

Lucky colors: Black, gray, bright red

Birthstone: Garnet

10 January the birthday of the realist

Your greatest challenge is…

showing your true feelings

The way forward is…

to tell yourself that vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength.

You’re drawn to people born on…

July 24 to August 23

You share a passion for directness and a love of the unconventional; this can create a stimulating and intense bond.

Luck maker

Pay others compliments more often

The more you can make others feel good about themselves, the more impressed they are likely to be by you.

People born on January 10 are a force to be reckoned with. They feel an irresistible urge to speak their mind at all times. As a result they are highly valued by others for their honesty and for their realistic assessment of a situation. They are never afraid to support an unconventional viewpoint and to champion the underdog.

Those born on this day tell it like it is, and this quality can bring them success and admiration, taking them to the very top. On the downside, their inability to sugarcoat or dress up the truth can on occasion upset people around them, stopping them advancing as fast in life as their more diplomatic peers. The trouble with the straight-shooting approach is that it doesn’t take into account the possibility of hope, and so January 10 people can sometimes come across as grumpy. This isn’t, however, a fair reflection of their personality. They are neither negative people nor are they unhappy; they just see things the way they are, warts and all. Typically around the age of forty-one, often sooner, they become more emotionally sensitive to the needs of others.

Although the no-nonsense approach of people born on this day can shock others on first contact, in the long term people often find their clear-sighted approach very refreshing; in times of crisis or uncertainty people will seek advice from people born on this day. Although more than happy to take on this role—as the respect of others is important for them—the very same qualities that earned them respect from others can also create distance as they may find it hard to empathize with people less able to cope with change and the ups and downs of life. Once they begin to understand that not everyone is as clear-sighted as they are, and that a gentle approach can help them achieve their objectives more effectively, people born on this day discover that not only can they earn the lasting loyalty of others, they also have the ability to make a powerful impact on the world around them.

On the dark side

Tactless, jealous, distant

At your best

Honest, direct, accepting

Love Not a closed book

There is a tendency for those born on January 10 to come across as a bit of a closed book. Lack of trust in others can make them act in a controlling, jealous and sometimes unfaithful manner. Material considerations can also become too important a factor in close relationships. However, when they find a lover who sees the generosity and vulnerability behind their pride and their rough and ready exterior, they can be sensual and passionate lovers.

Health Stay flexible

The tough, hardy exterior of people born on this day can manifest in health problems associated with rigidity, such as backache, arthritis, poor circulation and so on. They need to find an energetic physical outlet such as squash, aerobics or rock climbing; yoga or stretching for flexibility can help temper their strength with calmness. A healthy diet and plenty of fresh air and sunshine are also recommended, as these will help keep them feeling physically and emotionally light. If they find themselves feeling sad for no apparent reason, a bergamot-scented candle can help lift their mood. Wearing, meditating on and surrounding themselves with the color orange will encourage them to be more spontaneous.

Career Born troubleshooters

Careers in which they can solve problems for others or troubleshoot have great appeal for these people; for example, building, construction or computer programming. If attracted to the arts, financial rewards will be important; they will go for big-business ideas rather than specialist niches and they are also likely to excel in careers that offer good financial return, such as management, advertising and promotion. Their unconventional flair may lead them to explore the unknown; space tourist travel may have particular appeal.

Destiny To bring others closer to the truth

The life path of people born on this day is to bring others closer to the truth with their honest and realistic assessment of situations. Their destiny is to make an impact on others and the world they live in with their spirited determination and no-fuss approach to problem solving.

Power Thought

“Today, I will see something positive in all situations”

January 10

Signs & symbols

Sun sign: Capricorn

Ruling planet: Saturn, the teacher

Symbol: The Horned Goat

Birth date ruler: Sun, the individual

Tarot card: The Wheel of Fortune (change)

Favorable numbers: 1, 2

Lucky days: Saturday and Sunday, especially when these days fall on 1 and 2 of the month

Lucky colors: Black, Bombay brown, orange

Birthstone: Garnet

11 January the birthday of the expert assessor

Your greatest challenge is…

coping with feeling powerless to change things

The way forward is…

to understand that you can only change the things that you can. When a situation can’t be changed, you need to have faith and learn to let go.

You’re drawn to people born on…

June 22 to July 23

You share a passion for helping others and for social justice, and this creates an enduring bond.

Luck maker

Give others the benefit of the doubt

If you think the best of others they are more likely to fulfill that expectation.

Those born on January 11 have a natural talent for assessing every situation and measuring everyone they meet. They find little difficulty in discarding what isn’t needed and see to the heart of people and situations, judging them according to their own very high standards. When the formidable powers of perception of people born on this day are combined with their great intelligence, this results in individuals who are outstanding decision makers.

Underlying this talent for assessment is a strong sense of justice that always strives to be fair. They feel compelled to do the right thing in life and to pass judgment but sometimes they can have problems distinguishing what the right thing or judgment is for them and what the right thing is for others. As a result they can easily convince themselves into thinking that they need to take responsibility for everyone and everything; this is when problems can start, as it can lead to domineering or controlling behavior and the belief that their word really is the law.

It is important for people born on this day to learn to pronounce their opinions less forcibly so that they do not offend those who do not share their point of view. This won’t always be easy, but alongside their inflexibility there is also a very caring and compassionate nature. If they can tap more into that, they will begin to understand that it is not just their right, but everybody’s right, to have a difference of opinion. Typically around the age of forty, often sooner, their emotional sensitivity becomes stronger and they develop a more powerful inner life.

Those born on this day place high standards on others but they place even higher standards upon themselves. Because they have the courage and determination to live up to these standards, they often do find themselves in the very position they crave: that of the judgment maker. Others will seek them out for advice, judgment and, when they learn to be a little less inflexible, inspiration.