Capricorn provides us with the energy, organization, and resolve to make our resolutions reality. The beginning of each new calendar year is aligned with the sign of Capricorn. It is during this time when millions of people set resolutions to which they are fully committed…at least for a while. However, relatively few of us actually achieve what we set out to do.

Creating Structure and Framework

I readily admit that my Moon is in Capricorn, so organizing and structuring comes fairly naturally to me. Historically, I have set goals and objectives in early January which I evaluate at the end of the year and then give myself a score on how well I did. This definitely speaks to Capricorn’s ability to establish clear structure and set guidelines, characteristics that contribute to a steady climb up the mountain towards achievement.

Recently, as I was going through my process of annual evaluation and planning, it really struck me that I was looking at my world through the eyes of a true Capricorn. It was at that moment when relationship between this part of the zodiac cycle and the start of the New Year suddenly came into sharp focus. What is often missed is that resolutions on their own, without a framework to facilitate their success, are simply wishes or dreams. So, how do we use the energy and principles of Capricorn to turn our resolutions into reality? Simply put, we start by clearly stating goals and then build a structured path leading towards their fulfilment. This is exactly what our diligent and resolute Mountain-Goat does.

Finding Fun in Work

Some may view this approach as serious and it is, but that doesn’t mean the journey is not to be enjoyed. In fact, a vast number of us with Sun, Moon or Rising Sign in Capricorn actually consider hard work, organizing and achievement as “fun”. I admit it can be a little difficult to convince others of this, particularly as they observe passionately immersed in tasks or projects that will take us another step closer to our ambition. We seem “so serious” and outwardly it may not appear that we are enjoying ourselves. This is something that has been pointed out to me on occasion by well-meaning friends and colleagues. My response, that “I’m energized and loving what I’m doing”, has generally been met with an uncomprehending stare.

However, “Life is a journey” and the degree to which we participate creates either a satisfactory result or an exceptional one. The 10th House of the Horoscope (Capricorn’s natural house) is about what the individual sets out to accomplish in the world. So, does that mean the realization of ambition is really our ultimate goal or the purpose for our Capricorn natives? Personally, I don’t think so and the esoteric philosophies certainly suggest far more than that.

goal postsCapricornian Path to Success

One of the key esoteric phrases for Capricorn is “Let ambition rule and let the door stand wide”, reflecting this sign’s drive towards achievement. It is part of their journey to learn the right use of resources which, beyond the material, include our inner resources…emotional, mental and spiritual. It is important to recognize that what we need to learn we have to experience through practical application and diligent practice.  Therefore, the road to achievement is paved by employing the principles of structure, practicality, hard work, and discipline… and, all the while developing a deeper level of consciousness. At least that is the concept.

How we go about achieving success or progress with our goals and our own development, both spiritual and otherwise, is a matter of personal choice. Last year I decided to modify my approach to “annual goal setting”.  I wanted to exercise some creativity and send my intentions out to the Universe. I began by envisioning myself sitting down with my journal on December 31st. I then actually wrote about all I had done during the year, from that anticipated rear-view perspective. When I re-read those journal pages just a few weeks ago, I was amazed and inspired. I realized I had actually accomplished much more than I had set out to do. It was an incredible year! Not only did I achieve my goals, but I gained some significant personal growth and insight. Of course, I did have a defined plan of sorts providing the framework for all I did.  Though, without having written those journal pages a year ago I wonder if I would have enjoyed the same experience.

Set Your Intentions for 2017

If you have not already done so I invite you to invoke the energy of Capricorn.  Set a concrete intention for the year ahead with some practical structure to enable you to reach your goal. Make YOUR year EXCEPTIONAL! As for me…last year’s approach worked so well that I’ve repeated the exercise. I’m inspired and excited about the year to come and all the possibilities ahead of us.  I hope you are as well!