Hexagram 31, Line 4

The Line Text

Interpretation

This line represents the heart, the seat of thought and intention within the structure of influence. The core challenge here is internal: a restless, wavering mind (憧憧往來, "chong chong wang lai"). Your thoughts are scattered, you are pulled in multiple directions, and your will is indecisive. This inner agitation prevents your influence from being powerful and far-reaching. However, the line offers a clear path to success: "Perseverance brings good fortune; regret disappears" (貞吉，悔亡). This calls for you to become firm, correct, and steadfast in your core intention. You must quiet the inner turmoil and focus your mind. When you do, your influence will become effective, but in a specific way: "Only your friends will follow your thoughts" (朋從爾思). This means your power to influence is not universal at this stage. It is limited to those who are already close to you, who share your values, and who are naturally receptive to your ideas. The commentary confirms this: your influence is "not yet broad and brilliant" because of this inner wavering. By cultivating a focused and sincere mind, you achieve a targeted and meaningful success, eliminating the regret that comes from scattered and fruitless efforts.

Guidance for Action

Your primary task is to overcome internal indecision and mental restlessness. Your mind is likely filled with "what-ifs," doubts, and conflicting desires. Stop trying to influence everyone or consider every single possibility. Instead, turn inward and clarify your true intentions. What is your most important, central goal? What do you stand for? Once you establish this firm inner standpoint, hold to it with perseverance. Direct your energy and communication specifically toward those who you know are on your wavelength—your allies, trusted colleagues, or close friends. Do not waste your efforts on those who are unreceptive or hostile. By focusing your will, you will consolidate your strength and see clear, positive results within your immediate sphere, which will banish any feelings of regret or wasted time.

For Love & Relationships

In a relationship, this line points to a period of uncertainty and mixed feelings. You or your partner may be sending ambiguous signals, or your own heart may be wavering. You might be thinking about past relationships, future possibilities, or feel insecure about the present connection. The advice is to stop the mental "going back and forth." Find clarity and sincerity within yourself. What do you truly feel and want from this relationship? Once you are clear and firm in your own heart, express that authentic feeling. Your influence will be felt powerfully by a partner who is truly aligned with you (a "friend"). If your partner is receptive, your bond will deepen. If they are not, their lack of response will also bring you clarity. Game-playing or ambiguity will only lead to frustration. Sincere, focused intention is the key.

For Career & Business

You are in a position of some influence, perhaps as a team leader or a respected professional, but you feel your efforts are scattered and ineffective. You may be trying to please too many stakeholders, juggling too many projects, or lacking a single, clear strategic vision. This leads to professional anxiety and a sense of running in place. The guidance is to halt this restless activity and define your primary objective. Focus your energy on one key project or on building consensus within your core team. Communicate your vision clearly and consistently to your allies ("friends"). Don't worry about convincing skeptics or winning over the entire organization right now. By achieving a tangible success with a supportive group, you will build momentum and eliminate the regret of spreading yourself too thin.

For Financial Matters

This line warns against a scattered and emotional approach to your finances. You may be chasing various "hot tips," constantly shifting your investment strategy based on market noise, or feeling deeply indecisive about a significant financial move. This "restless going back and forth" creates anxiety and is unlikely to yield good results. The path to "good fortune" is through "perseverance." This means creating a clear, stable financial plan based on your own goals and principles, and sticking to it. Your success will come from this disciplined focus. "Only your friends will follow your thoughts" suggests you should only listen to trusted financial advisors who understand your situation, or that your sound financial decisions will positively influence only your immediate family, not the wider world. Tune out the market chatter and focus on your own well-defined plan.