The Emporer

Range of meanings

Light: Exercising authority. Defining limits. Directing the flow of work. Communicating clear guidelines. Being in control of yourself and others. Tempering aggressive masculinity with wisdom and experience.

Shadow: Micromanaging. Crushing the creativity of others with a rigid, iron-fisted approach. Insisting on getting your own way. Assuming a dictatorial mindset. Using overt force to achieve your goals and maintain order.

Questions to ask

1. In your situation, what do you really control?
2. Who’s in charge of your situation, and by what authority?
3. Would rigid control be more appropriate than gentle guidance today?
4. How might strict emotional control help you now?
5. Are your efforts fruitful, or are you just butting your head against a wall?
6. How does the issue of control or regulation impact this situation?
7. What would a compassionate but strict father do?
8. What needs more control?

Advice

Personal Growth: In what ways do your attitudes toward authority seem to be shaped by your relationship with your father? A mature person recognizes that structure and authority are a requirement of civilization. Some resist purely out of habit or stubbornness; when you buck the system, be sure you have good reason to do so.

Work: Efficient groups depend on centralized control. Seek ways to direct the flow without micromanaging the process. Encourage leaders (including yourself) to step up to the plate and embrace their obligations. Control what you can; don’t worry about the rest.

Relationships: Without becoming false or deceptive, you can regulate your feelings and reactions. Beware the need to always be in control; a healthy relationship incorporates a fair division of labor. Be on the lookout for subtle (and not-so-subtle) efforts to wear the pants in the relationship.

Spirituality: The stereotypical view of religion casts organized faith in restrictive terms. Rather than be constrained by structure, consider how structure and discipline might enhance your spiritual experience. Seek guidance and direction from those who have walked the path before you.

Fortune-Telling: A father figure arrives. A new employer or authority figure will give you orders. Expect discipline or correction in the near future.