Most of my Chinese clients and friends are on holiday today, celebrating this auspicious time of year with their families and a cacophony of very loud fireworks. (I was in China during one New Year and thought World War 3 was taking place outside my hotel room window- the booms and crashes were earsplitting and the Shanghai night sky had turned a foggy burnt umber.)

I thought I would see if there was anything I could learn from this Chinese New Year – the Year of the Dragon.

I found this rather sweet Chinese horoscope guide  and I love their description of the dragon:

‘The Dragon is a beautiful creature, colorful and flamboyant. An extroverted bundle of energy, gifted and utterly irrepressible, everything Dragons do is on a grand scale – big ideas, ornate gestures, extreme ambitions……Because they are confident, fearless in the face of challenge, they are almost inevitably successful. Dragons usually make it to the top.’

I worked with many photographers last year on new goals, big dreams and ambitions. Beautiful folios were produced, new and established talent given a new lease of life.

I know that this year, just like preceeding years, will bring its own set of problems and hiccups. I also know that those who boldly believe in themselves will make it.

I can’t think of a better way to begin this year than with a commitment to be like the dragon.

Gong Xi Fa Cai!