This might be one of the most confusing and challenging combinations you will encounter during your lifetime, but it is not without promise and opportunity. ~first~, the numbers that rule this cycle are opposite in nature, but there are ways to align them into a more harmonious partnership. Understanding how the influences affect you, and in which area of your life they have the most impact can help.

Your Essence affects you internally; it influences your mindset, the way you feel, and the approach you will take toward situations you encounter. An 8 in this position lends sharp focus and a take-charge attitude. It increases your desire and ability to push past obstacles that can impede your goals and dreams. It is empowering and business savvy.

Your Personal Year cycle carries a more indirect, external influence. It affects your surroundings and the events and circumstances you will encounter. A 9 Year represents the end of a cycle, and like the end of a long day it can make you feel tired and low on energy. Consequently, you may be less motivated and tempted to slack in some areas, especially those that require physical and mental effort.

Although the numbers are clearly opposites - one energetic, the other somewhat uninspired - they tend to focus on different areas of your life, which is beneficial. The 8 is naturally attracted to professional and practical matters, while the 9 is focused more on your inner evolution. Your effort to direct their respective traits toward the most fitting area will help them complement each other and produce the best results.

It will probably take more effort than usual to muster your willpower and focus. To harness the year's opportunities, you may need to distance yourself from time and energy wasting distractions. Even then, it could be difficult to get past the weakening influence of the 9. You might say you will need to overcome yourself as well, because self-doubt and diminished self-esteem can be side effects of this Personal Year cycle. Effort and discipline will be required to accomplish something substantial and notable during this time.

If each cycle is given proper attention, this can be a rewarding period in many ways. Some people with this duality decide to finish college even if they withdrew decades ago. Some take second jobs, sell everything to follow a long-held dream, run a marathon, or begin a fundraising campaign to address homelessness in their town.

Allow your ambitious 8 to drive your productive life, while the 9 attends to setting your personal house in order. This will help you prepare for the projects, people, and opportunities you will encounter next year when you begin a new nine-year cycle.