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How to Calculate Your Destiny Number Using Numerology

Last week, we just barely scratched the surface when we talked about numerology, and specifically about calculating your life path number using your birth date. But did you know that numerology concerns letters as well as numbers?

Sound a bit crazy? In numerology, each letter of the alphabet is assigned a numeric value, so that we can interpret the meanings of specific words and even names. Which is how we’re going to divine our destiny numbers today. Where our life path number sheds light on our purpose in this life, our destiny number gives a glimpse of how we will express that purpose.

Numerical Values of Letters

First off, a key to determine which letters correspond to which numbers. We figure this out by counting the first nine letters (A-I) and assigning them their expected values (1-9). And then starting with the letter J, we count the next nine letters (J-R), and assign them the values 1-9 again. Then repeat one more time with the letters S-T (1-8).

So if you’re plotting it out on paper, it should look something like this:

1 = A, J, S

2 = B, K, T

3 = C, L, U

4 = D, M, V

5 = E, N, W

6 = F, O, X

7 = G, P, Y

8 = H, Q, Z

9 = I, R

Your Destiny Number

So now to find your destiny number. Take your full name, and assign a number to each letter, adding the numerals together until you get down to one root number for each name, and then for your full name.

For instance, my full name is Jennifer (1 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 9 + 6 + 5 + 9 = 45, which then becomes 4 + 5 = 9) Lynn (3 + 7 + 5 + 5 = 20, which then becomes 2 + 0 = 2) Milam (4 + 9 + 3 + 1 + 4 = 21, which then becomes 2 + 1 = 3). This means my destiny number is 5, because 9 + 2 + 3 = 14, and then 1 + 4 = 5.

The fun part is that there are a few ways you can do this. You can use your birth name, your chosen name, or even a nickname. Each will give you a different interpretation and a different insight into how people might see you when they’re first introduced to you.

But what do all of these numbers mean? Here’s a quick rundown of the numbers 1-9 and their interpretations. Just know there is so much information out there, so please just consider this a jumping-off point.

Number Interpretations

One – These are thought to be natural leaders who value independence, autonomy, and freedom. Their goal in life is to develop these traits and grow their authentic voice and self-confidence.

Two – These are sensitive, empathic individuals who tend to wear their hearts on their sleeves. Their goal in life is to turn that sensitivity into their superpower and to use it to connect with others.

Three – Threes are playful, creative, and self-expressive. They’re highly gifted communicators. Their goal in life is to harness their optimism and remain in that headspace in spite of difficulties, rather than checking out through escapism.

Four – These folks are all about structure, pragmatism, and hard work. They’ve got a very earth-sign type of energy, and are preoccupied with putting down roots. Their goal is to not let that need for security turn into rigidity — this person will benefit from some out-of-the-box thinking.

Five –  Fives are adventurous people, who share little in common with their pragmatic 4 neighbors. They’re all about forward movement and embracing change. Their goal in life is to embrace a bit of structure in their daily lives for their own wellbeing.

Six – Sixes are generous, empathic, and nurturing by nature. They connect easily to others and are often natural healers. Their life goal is to serve as the caregiver to the ones they love, and yet recognize that not everyone needs to be parented all the time.

Seven – These folks are the investigators and journalists. They’re quite analytical and can sometimes develop perfectionist tendencies. Their life goal is to balance their pragmatic mind with a more intuitive, imaginative approach.

Eight – Eights are often preoccupied with ambition and material success, and they easily fit into authoritative roles. Their life goal is to temper that upward climb by helping others achieve their own success as well. A rising tide lifts all boats.

Nine – These are compassionate, peace-loving people who’d rather go with the flow than make a fuss. They’re considered old souls, and generally take things in stride. Their life goal is to reach an even higher state of spiritual awareness and to help bring others along on that journey.