I think it’s safe to say this is a year many of us might be trying to apply astrological meaning to our lives. I’ve always had some interest in the Chinese zodiac, trying not to read too deeply, but enough to recognize a meaningful message. There is always a certain blunt candor that I love and appreciate. It’s much easier to receive unsolicited advice from a horoscope than a loved one, especially when it hits close to home!
So when I read that the ‘Year of the Ox’ would be a year where we “fully feel the weight of our responsibilities” and therefore will need “to double our efforts to accomplish anything at all,” I thought this was very true in a pandemic year that has drastically changed people’s professional and personal livelihoods. Sometimes we need a shock to the system or a dose of reality to get out of our own heads and to change deeply ingrained patterns. Most things in life – relationships, career aspirations and good health to name a few – well, require effort.
Doubling the effort, while sounding a bit daunting, makes us stronger and is actually quite doable. Think about a new exercise class or a new task. We usually put so much effort and energy to get through the first few attempts; then eventually, if we don’t give up (to keep with the zodiac blunt tone), we learn to master it with practice, finesse and ways to challenge ourselves with modifications.
I believe the message of “added efforts” in the ‘Year of the Ox’ is so timely as 2021 is a year to innovate and manifest change on so many levels. Where will you double your efforts this year? Have you already started? If so, are your patterns or routines changing for the better? Will this added effort lead to a healthier lifestyle and work habits that are actually more sustainable than before? The answer is always yes! Good luck and Happy 2021!
