This is one of the trickier combinations of cycles and one where understanding what each number represents can be crucial to making this a happy, successful year.

While reading your Essence and Personal Year cycles, ~first~, you probably noticed their characteristics are polar opposites. Your Essence influences you from the inside out, affecting your state of mind and the way you approach situations. An 8 in this position inspires you to take the reins and move forward - it is a doer, determined, ambitious, and business savvy.

Your Yearly cycle mainly affects the events and circumstances around you. This year the 7 will direct your focus inward, which is the opposite intention of your results-oriented Essence. Many circumstances you encounter will require patience and forethought at a time when you would rather jump right in.

This combination can produce a frustrating period where you feel caught between an internal force that is ambitious and driven, and an external force that creates situations and events that are not achievement oriented. However, being aware of this conflict and knowing how to balance these opposing characteristics can help them become complementary.

You can compartmentalize the influence of these cycles by using the traits of your ambitious 8 Essence for your career and practical matters, and the traits of your inwardly focused 7 for study, contemplation, and self-discovery. Giving each side attention allows your inner growth and insight to enhance the practical areas of your life. This could seem a little unnatural at first - a little like asking a driven entrepreneur to do yoga or meditation - but it will add a broader dimension to your life.

With your desire for material progress coupled with this year's focus on inner development, relationships and romance may take a back seat. Try not to let important relationships deteriorate; this may take a conscious effort on your part.