Here are some tips on how you can take advantage of the presence of the magical water dragon this year.  Who knows, you might be able to pick up some helpful insights that you can apply at work or in your own business.

People born in the Year of the Dragon have the potential to become successful in business because of their flamboyance and exuberance.  This year opens promising opportunities to embark on new business ventures.  Individuals born in the Year of the Dragon can take advantage of their innate traits to prosper this year.

Those who were born under different animal signs can emulate the following Dragon characteristics and use them as stepping stones towards success.  Learn how to harness the strength and positive traits of a dragon.

Dragon traits to emulate

Charisma

Some claim that a person is born with charisma while others say that it is a trait that can be learned. Charisma is not easy to explain. It’s like a personal magnetism that makes it easy to attract friends, elicit support and inspire cooperation.  If you think about it, every person has a certain degree of charisma.

An individual with a good sense of charisma usually finds it easier to accomplish things through the help and support of other people.  According to Chinese beliefs, people born in the Year of the Dragon have natural charisma which they can use to their advantage.

In the corporate world, an individual who has learned to harness his natural charisma usually inspires loyalty among his colleagues. Someone who is at the receiving end of his co-workers’ admiration and respect will be easily motivated to work harder to achieve his goals. Charisma is a good leadership trait that can help a person succeed in the corporate ladder.

In a business setting, a proprietor can use his charisma in dealing with his staff, clients and suppliers. A charismatic business owner usually finds it easier to deal with people who are essential to the success of the business.

There is a correlation between personal charisma and success at work or business.  A person who takes advantage of his natural charisma often has a positive relationship with the people around him.  Positive interactions can be equated with personal satisfaction. A happy disposition in life inspires a person to work harder in attaining his goals.

Ability to lead

Dragons are effective leaders because they can easily attract the interest of people and earn their loyalty.  They strive better when they lead the group rather than stay in the sidelines. People born in the Year of the Dragon are also good organizers. They like to do things in an orderly manner.

People with the ability to lead become successful in their chosen careers.  Many companies reward individuals with strong leadership skills the opportunity to be promoted to higher positions. Many Dragons are also successful business owners.

Creativity

Dragons are known to be creative.  Many Dragons prosper as inventors, architects, engineers, brokers and sales representatives.

In the world of business, creativity can set one’s company apart from others.  Creativity can make one stand out from competitors.  Clients are drawn to creative and innovative products and services.

Commitment

People born in the Year of the Dragon value the essence of commitment, both in business and their personal lives. In fact, Dragons are loyal partners and they commit themselves to lifelong relationships. They are also hard-working and not afraid to face challenges and risks.

Lucky 8 steps toward prosperity

1. Set goals - It is important to set goals in life.  Without goals, there will be no clear path towards success. In order to know the direction you need to take, it is vital that you establish a clear set of goals. Once you do, focus on your goals and begin your journey.

2. Reach for your dreams – Do not be afraid to live your dreams. Do not look for the easiest path. Instead, find the best positive direction. Ambition plays a big role in the path of success. Aspire to be the best that you can.

3. Learn to adapt –In the Year of the Water Dragon, it is important to learn to adapt to the challenges, changes and developments around you. Be ready for the unexpected. Any business can go through phases of change and development. Learning to adapt quickly gives you an edge in your field.

4. Face challenges - Pursue your dreams no matter how difficult things may seem to be. If you have faith in yourself, you are more likely to succeed.

5. Be patient – Daring dragons have the tendency to run ahead, upsetting the balance of things along its path. People should realize that there are things that come in due time.  Instant gratification is not always something to be desired.  Like fruits, certain things in business should be harvested at the right time.

6. Learn to take risks – There is nothing wrong in taking risks as long as you know how to tackle risks accordingly.  Study the pros and cons of a future business decision before making final decisions.  Think before you act. In the Year of the Dragon, impulsive decisions may be dangerous.

7. Set aside pride – Do not let pride become an obstacle in reaching your goals.  People who let pride get the better of them are less likely to do well in the Year of the Dragon.   Overconfidence and inability to accept mistakes can be a recipe for failure.  Refrain from being self-centered.  Success cannot rely on one person alone. It is important to think of others and learn the essence of becoming a good team player.

8. Take the initiative – People who know how to take initiatives will have access to better opportunities.  Good fortune is not served on a plate. It will not come to you unless you do something.  People who yearn for success should go out and make their fortune.  Don’t just sit around, make things happen! Make your mark in the business world by making good use of your skills and talents.  Do not be afraid to be brave and bold.

Photo: “Happy new year of the dragon” by , c/o Flickr. Some Rights Reserved.

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Rachel Yapchiongco, also known as Rach to her friends, is a Psychology and Marketing Management graduate of De La Salle University.  She took up MBA at the same university.  Rachel is a full-time mom to a charming young boy and married to an entrepreneur with a passion for cooking. She shares parenting experiences and slices of everyday life on her personal blog called Heart of Rachel.