Hexagram 16, Line 3

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line portrays a state of derived or dependent enthusiasm. The individual is not generating their own joy or motivation from within. Instead, they are "gazing upward" (盱), looking to a person in a higher position (like the strong leader in line 4) for cues, approval, and direction. This is the enthusiasm of a sycophant or a follower who has lost their own initiative. While they may feel a sense of excitement by basking in the reflected glory of a leader, this posture is inherently weak and unstable. It leads to "regret" (悔) because it stems from a lack of self-reliance and personal integrity. The position is "inappropriate," as the commentary notes, not because of its yin/yang nature, but because it is a position of passive dependency rather than active, authentic participation. The second part of the text, "To delay brings regret," is a stern warning. Once you recognize this unhealthy pattern of dependency, you must act decisively to correct it. Hesitation or procrastination will only deepen the regret and cause you to miss the opportunity to reclaim your autonomy.

Guidance for Action

Your current sense of enthusiasm is likely borrowed from an external source—a charismatic leader, a popular trend, or the approval of others. This is a precarious foundation. You must shift your focus from looking outward for validation to looking inward for your own authentic purpose and drive. Stop waiting for permission or for someone else to make the first move. The feeling of regret you may be experiencing is a signal to change course immediately. Do not delay in taking initiative and acting from your own center. Reclaim your personal power by making your own decisions and generating your own momentum. Procrastination is your greatest enemy right now; swift, self-reliant action is the only remedy.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line points to an unhealthy dynamic of dependency. You may be putting your partner on a pedestal, deriving all your happiness and sense of self-worth from their moods and approval. Your "enthusiasm" for the relationship is based on their validation, not on a genuine partnership of equals. This leads to regret, as you lose your own identity and power. The guidance is to act now to restore balance. Stop waiting for your partner to make you happy. Cultivate your own interests, friendships, and sources of joy. Bring a whole and independent self to the relationship. If you are single, this line warns against seeking a partner to "complete" you or save you. Focus on building your own fulfilling life first.

For Career & Business

This line describes the employee who is overly dependent on a superior. You might be engaging in "upward-gazing enthusiasm"—flattering the boss, eagerly awaiting their every command, and showing excitement only for their ideas. While this may seem like a safe strategy, it leads to regret because you are not contributing your own unique value. You risk being seen as a sycophant with no initiative. The time has come to act decisively. Stop waiting for instructions for every little thing. Take ownership of your projects, offer your own well-considered ideas, and demonstrate your capacity for independent thought and action. Delaying this shift will only lead to being overlooked for promotions and more significant responsibilities.

For Financial Matters

In financial matters, this line warns against a passive, dependent approach. You may be "gazing upward" at financial gurus, waiting for a hot stock tip, or hoping for a lucky break or a handout to solve your problems. Your enthusiasm about money is tied to external events you cannot control, rather than your own diligent efforts. This leads to regret and missed opportunities. The remedy is to take immediate control of your financial destiny. Stop delaying. Create a budget, formulate a savings and investment plan based on your own research and goals, and take disciplined action. Your financial security must be built by you, not given to you.