Guidance from the I Ching: #42 - Increase

It’s time to get things moving

September 21, 2020

“Increase indicates an advantage in having undertakings and in crossing a big river. Thus, when the enlightened person sees a good deed, they improve their own at once; when they realize they are making a mistake, they correct it at once.”

I consult the I Ching (Book Of Changes) for inspiration at the start of every week. This week’s message is all about momentum.

This week, the I Ching suggests that things are taking off. Increase represents a time when even the most difficult undertakings become possible due to all of the exceptional energy directed towards the situation. But not just any goal will benefit from the power of Increase. The kind of energy available can only be utilized in worthwhile endeavors. So to best take advantage of Increase, make sure your immediate goals are for the benefit of society. The I Ching warns that self-centeredness will be met with defensive or hostile responses and that misaligned priorities leave your progress vulnerable to a setback.

” To maximize Increase you will need determination. This is not the time to take your foot off of the gas. You are building momentum, and to break through to your goals will require an unwavering will. “

Jose Johnson

Increase is a perfect time for the servant-leader to create impact. The I Ching suggests that sincere acts of generosity towards your supporters will increase their loyalty to your cause. In times of Increase, leaders may often be called upon to make personal sacrifices for the good of those they influence and assist them in advancing their goals. These sacrifices are not in vain, as they will serve to increase a sense of unity. As the I Ching states, “To rule is to truly serve.”

Increase offers an excellent opportunity for focusing on self-improvement. Now is the time to get rid of self-indulgent behaviors in favor of a more healthy sense of direction and well-being. The key to this type of transformation is through the use of self-awareness and self-discipline. When in doubt, observe the positive actions and habits in others and emulate those traits. Increase calls us to “accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative.”

While Increase can be seen and felt all around you, you still need to do the work. It is vital to make the best use of your time now as conditions will inevitably change. Whatever your goal, you must work towards it daily and remain persevering. Take advantage of your opportunities while they are available. To maximize Increase you will need determination. This is not the time to take your foot off of the gas. You are building momentum, and to break through to your goals will require an unwavering will. Increase does not always mean that things are easy or comfortable. Times of Increase are often filled with growing pains. You may find that what will benefit you most in the grander scheme of things might be considered an unfortunate circumstance at the time. If you hold to your principles and do not lose sight of the bigger picture, you will persevere. Remember, it is often through adversity that we acquire strength.

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