Someone who heard about your work may get in touch

A former client's recommendation or a document passed around a team may lead to the next request. If someone asks, “Could we try that approach here?” show one example of the work you do best. Explain what you changed and how you finished it. With Star 9 drawing attention, people who see the result may remember you for a different job, too.

When someone asks about a project already underway, the reverse overlap with Yellow Earth Star 5 can bring a chance to rethink its foundations. You might go in to review a page and discover that the direction needs settling first. At the first meeting, ask which parts of the project are still open to change. That tells you whether it's a quick revision or work you'll need to set time aside for.

Someone you've heard about may surprise you in person

Xun brings connections through other people. Annual Star 9 makes impressions vivid. A person friends describe as quiet might come alive on the subject of a favorite film. Tell them about a film or exhibition that got you talking, too. If the conversation takes a turn you didn't see coming, see where it goes.

With a partner, spend an evening at a show they picked. Even if you like entirely different pieces, finding out where their eyes went can bring something fresh to a long relationship.

One photo can restart a conversation

An old friend sends a picture, or someone you both know passes on a bit of news. Xun's wind can bring word from people you haven't seen in a while. If you send something yourself, pick a photo with a story in it. You spot the restaurant at the edge of an old group picture and ask, “Is that place still there?” By the end of the chat you may have a date to meet.

Annual Star 9 can also make one stray remark stand out. If you hear over dinner that someone might be opening a place, save that thought for when you see them. Their own update could be more interesting than the story people have been passing around.

A tailwind for sending a fresh quote

Word about something you've already made could bring a new order. Xun spreads the word, and annual Star 9 draws eyes to the work. Someone might want to use a photo they've seen in a different publication. Quote separately for creating new work and for permission to use what's already there. You'll see where the money in the request comes from.

Clothes and accessories for being seen may catch your eye. Pick one color that works in a photo and try it in the mirror with what you already own. Spend on something you'd be happy to wear the next time as well.

Think about how you'll hold on to the work you own

Annual Star 9 can draw attention to photos, writing or design you already have. A new use for a piece you've worked with for years raises a question beyond the immediate fee. Can you still use it yourself afterwards, and which uses are you willing to authorize? Putting rights and shares into words now makes the next discussion easier.

For work you own together, monthly Star 5 suggests looking at the original arrangement. If someone wants to use a jointly made piece somewhere new, who can say yes and how would you split the fee? Pull out the existing agreement while there's time to read it.

One corner of your room could end up in the frame

A video call, a shot of you at work or an invitation home may put some of your room in view. Set a light where it will reach your face and pick one thing you want in the background. That alone can say something about the person who works there.

If you're thinking about moving, use Xun's movement as a way to read the map. Who would be easy to visit? Look at the walk home after dark and how clearly you can explain the way to a guest, as well as the time to the station.

You may find a piece you like enough to say why

A photograph, a book cover or the layout of an exhibition could hold your eye. Star 9 brings an eye for design and Xun the urge to put it into words. If you write three lines about what you saw, start with where you looked first. The conversation gets interesting when someone else noticed a completely different thing.

One exhibition in Kyobashi, another stop in Ginza

A local saying “It's more interesting one street back” could send you off your usual route. Xun turns a tip you've heard into the pleasure of finding out for yourself.

In Tokyo, look for art museums in Kyobashi and galleries in Ginza. Pick one exhibition in each area. The art comes from annual Star 9, and the meal and conversation afterwards from Star 7. Leave time for tea so you can say, “That was the one for me.”

Japanese search terms for finding local listings
“京橋 美術館” · “銀座 ギャラリー”

Your eyes and voice may be busier than usual

A midday meeting, a late-afternoon presentation with a screen and dinner with people you haven't seen in a while. You may enjoy every part and still feel keyed up long afterwards. Between things that take a lot of talking, sit for a while with a hot drink and let the steam do the work. When you get home, dim the lights and give your eyes a rest. Reply after you've had a chance to breathe.