A woman is considering whether to accept a job offer at a new company or stay at her current job. She decides to consult the I Ching using the three-coin method. She formulates her question: 'What should I consider about the job offer at the new company?'
She tosses the coins six times. The result is: line 1 (bottom) — changing yang, line 2 — stable yin, line 3 — stable yang, line 4 — stable yang, line 5 — stable yin, line 6 (top) — stable yang. The hexagram is ䷀ (hexagram 1, Qian, The Creative) with a changing line at the bottom. The relating hexagram is ䷫ (hexagram 44, Gou, Coming to Meet), formed by changing the bottom line from yang to yin.
She reads the judgment of hexagram 1: 'The Creative works sublime success, furthering through perseverance.' The theme is about creative action and persistence. The changing line at the bottom says: 'Hidden dragon. Do not act.' This suggests that the time is not yet right for action — she should wait and gather more information before making a decision.
She reads the relating hexagram 44: 'Coming to Meet. The maiden is powerful. One should not marry such a maiden.' This suggests a encounter with something that appears attractive but may not be what it seems. The job offer may look good on the surface but has hidden issues.
She decides to ask more questions during the interview process — about team culture, management style, and growth opportunities. The I Ching did not tell her whether to take the job. It prompted her to investigate more carefully before acting. That is how the I Ching works: it is a tool for reflection, not a decision-making machine.
