Hexagram 01 CREATIVE POWER The air is ripe with imagination, inspiration and energy. The dragon is an ancient symbol of an electrically charged, dynamic, arousing force that bodes well for creative initiative. If your goals are in alignment with the greater good, your actions will meet with success, but this can only happen if you assert yourself in a positive way. This is a good time to exercise leadership, because you can be strong now. But be forewarned -- success turns to failure when strength turns to arrogance. +++ Believe in your dreams and persevere, and everything around you will flourish. Call upon creative power and let it work through you. Stay focused on your goals; do not let yourself be distracted, or you may lose the power available to you now. And remember that when taking action, success requires good timing.
***1 There are hidden elements in this situation that you are not yet able to perceive. Hold your creative power in reserve temporarily, because the timing is not right for action. Trying to make progress now would be like trying to cook noodles in cold water. Wait until the water boils.
***2 Events are moving in the right direction. You have entered the arena and are being noticed, but the game has not begun. Take a wider perspective, and the best strategy will become clear. You are not yet in position to make great changes, but aligning yourself with a strong ally would help lead to a breakthrough.
***3 A sphere of influence is opening up. Let yourself be active, but do not expect an immediate reward. And don't let your energies become scattered. Hold to your vision and your integrity, and you can make progress in a stable way. Do not use your creative powers just to attract attention to yourself. Remember, freedom is not always an invitation to dance; it may be a chance to step out on a ledge. Be careful.
***4 Your creative power is growing. You have a clear choice in this situation to lunge forward or to draw back. It's natural to feel some anxiety in a situation like this. But you have the freedom to act as the situation requires to engage or to withdraw. Do not be influenced by what happened in the past. Be sure to consider the long term consequences of any action you might take.
***5 Your power is growing. Be like the leader who is considerate to those under his or her influence. In return, the respect of those who work for and with you will deepen. Your position may be a bit lonely, but influential people will soon recognize your talent. Seek out allies whom you respect. When leaders unite as peers, their power is multiplied.
***6 Is it possible that your ambition exceeds your creative power? If so, there may be cause for remorse. Avoid arrogance, for isolating yourself will only lead to sorrow. Now is not the time to engage in conflicts or criticize others. Relax and recharge your creativity.
