Hexagram 3 — Difficulty at the Beginning: First Nine Line Explained

The First Nine points to the grueling startup phase of a career. You may have just begun a new job, a new project, or a new business venture, only to encounter unexpected difficulties from the outset — insufficient resources, team friction, lukewarm market response, or lack of support from superiors. But these difficulties are precisely what test whether your foundation is solid. Do not chase performance or results right now. Focus your energy on three things: first, deeply understand the underlying logic of your industry; second, build a reliable network and team; third, refine your core skills and product. Once the roots are firmly planted, breaking through the surface is only a matter of time.

In matters of the heart, First Nine suggests a relationship in the painful early stages of adjustment. You may have just begun pursuing someone or entered a new relationship, only to find the other person's attitude ambiguous, communication difficult, or various external conditions blocking the relationship's development. Do not be discouraged or rush to confess or apply pressure. Like that small tree silently taking root beneath the eave, what you need most now is patience and sincerity. Prove your feelings through actions rather than words, and build trust through daily interactions. When the roots of affection are firmly established, the relationship will naturally blossom.

Financially, First Nine indicates you are in an "investment phase" rather than a "harvest phase." You may need to invest considerable time and money in learning, skill development, and networking, with no obvious returns in the short term. This is normal — every venture requires upfront investment in its early stages. Control your cash flow, act within your means, and do not go into excessive debt or invest beyond your capacity out of impatience. Actively seek partners and supporters to share risk and cost. The greatest taboo in the startup phase is going all-in on a single bet — a prudent financial strategy will carry you much further.

Health-wise, First Nine warns against physical burnout during the startup phase. With everything being difficult at the start, you may be under enormous pressure — late nights, irregular meals, and no exercise becoming the norm. But your body is the foundation of everything. If you wreck your health during the startup phase, you won't be able to enjoy success even if it comes later. Set a minimum health plan: ensure basic sleep, at least 30 minutes of movement daily, and regular meals. Like that small tree, first send your roots deep — build a strong physical foundation — and you'll have the capital to grow upward in the future.