The Year of the Ox is about hard work, patience, discipline, loyalty and slow but steady success. In Chinese astrology, ox energy is not rewarded for taking shortcuts. It rewards people who prove their worth through hard work, build skills and keep at it. But there is one thing wrong. Many people under the influence of strong Ox energy continue to work hard even though a better career opportunity is already within their reach. You may believe you are exercising patience. But you could be missing out on a major career jump. Three signs you should not ignore right now.

This is the first obvious sign. You might be under extra pressure, solving difficult problems, training others or managing senior responsibilities. But your title and pay could be. Ox energy instils loyalty and responsibility. That is to be commended. But loyalty is not meant to be silent suffering. If you are already doing the work of a senior position, it may be time to ask for a promotion, a salary review, or a clear career path. Don’t expect others to know on their own. Speak with proof. List your accomplishments, additional responsibilities and outcomes. Determine the right time to have a conversation about growth.

Another sign is that people are always asking for your advice. You will be regularly approached by colleagues, clients, friends or managers who seek your guidance. You can solve problems quickly, but still consider them to be nothing special. This is a mistake. The Year of the Ox reminds us that skills learned over time are valuable. Your work is significant if people have confidence in your judgment. Maybe you’re ready to increase your rates, take on more challenging jobs, begin consulting, teach, mentor, or develop a second income stream. Don’t underestimate yourself just because the skill is easy for you.

If you feel bored, under-utilised or mentally stagnant, your current role may not be using your skills to their full advantage. Oxygen energy is increased by accountability. Growth stops, and frustration begins. Maybe you need a bigger project, a stronger team, a more robust organisation, a grander professional aspiration. That doesn’t mean you should suddenly resign. That means you have to be careful when you’re preparing. Update your CV. Raise a skill. Talk with a mentor. Apply subtly. Market research. The Year of the Ox is a good year for career changes, but you need to be patient and plan smart. But it also tells you not to overlook your own progress. If you’re doing senior work, you are trusted for your abilities, or you feel too big for your role, then take the sign seriously. You can make a big career move without much noise. It can begin the moment you realise your own worth and decide to do something about it.