Chinese New Year Special: What to expect in the Year of the Monkey

If you've ever watched a monkey in the wild, or on television, it's obvious how smart, quick-witted and enthusiastic they are about everything. This outlook colours all aspects of 2016, since monkeys love adventure. You'll naturally be keen to try something new, mix up old routines and get involved in stuff.

That's great news, especially since you'll learn new skills and gain confidence as a result. Just make sure you keep a firm balance between work and play, as the Monkey mojo favours fun and freedom, rather than getting the job done. As long as you do your chores, ace homework and stick to a strict schedule that keeps you on the straight and narrow, there'll be plenty of time to relax, and have a good time with your friends - Monkey magic will make sure of that!

School may seem a bit more boring than usual and there's a temptation to let things slide, but don't ditch the diary or miss deadlines - remember that balance is key in this crazy year.

The best advice for everyone in a Monkey year is to shrug off the slightest hint of grumpiness, negativity and bad moods - both in yourself and your mates. The Monkey era has zero tolerance for pessimists and whiners.

Take an inventory of who (and what) should stay in your life. Friends who've passed their sell-by date probably won't notice that you've unfriended them. If they do, it's OK to give the relationship a second chance. Ask yourself: how do I feel after being in the company of this person? Do I feel uplifted and energised - or drained, down and depressed?

Intuition and "gut feel" are on fire throughout 2016 (especially for those of you born in a Dragon year), as Monkey naturally respects honesty and bold behaviour. This means that you'll make wise decisions, achieve results and resolve issues almost effortlessly - as long as you listen to your inner voice. It can help you make powerful changes in your life.

And listen up: it's a really bad idea to gossip now (isn't it always?), since behind-the-back whispering will almost always backfire. Monkeys love to stir the pot, fuel a little drama and poke fun at those who take themselves too seriously, so if you can't say something nice, it's best to keep your mouth shut and play nicely, even when others don't.

On the social front, group situations may be tricky. If you find yourself in the eye of the storm, back off - there are untrustworthy types about, even if they're not aware of this questionable trait in themselves. This is no time to be peacekeeper or diplomat; with Monkey mischief everywhere this year, you can't always separate fact from fiction.

Of course, on the flip side, a bit of intrigue and excitement turns boring into brilliant. It's a fab period for creative pursuits, such as film-making, writing new songs, doing an oil painting, or starting a personal blog (or becoming a Junior Reporter at Young Post). Developing and nurturing your talents and hobbies is a good idea, as it's vital to spend a bit of time alone to re-charge batteries frazzled by manic Monkey liveliness.

Another great way to release some of the oomph and stress of the Monkey year is through exercise. Try calming activities, such as yoga, Pilates, swimming or walking, as these soothe the soul and help you sleep better, too.

If you're a bit of a control freak who loves to plan every detail, the next few months could be a bumpy ride. In a Monkey year, stuff rarely goes according to plan - no matter how well-prepared and logical you are. This isn't all doom and gloom, though, as being flexible and learning to laugh off life's troubles are valuable skills to learn.

If things do go pear-shaped, remember to take small steps, stay open to change, look for the silver lining, and have a Plan B. That's the beauty of life under Monkey's spotlight: there's always light in the darkness, if you look for it.

Above all, do have fun. That's the point of Monkey business.