Numbers are everywhere, all around us, especially in this modern digital age. From your smartphone to your smart fridge, electronic devices often tell us the time, and we may also notice numbers in car registrations, addresses, phone numbers and other data chunks. So, what does it mean if you keep seeing the same pattern of repeating numbers?

You’re probably aware of the 11:11 phenomenon – increasing numbers of people who believe they are seeing the number pattern 11:11 (as a time) or 1111 cropping up in daily life. In numerology, 11 is a master number, and is believed to signify a strong spirituality. Many people therefore consider 11:11 to be a sign of a spiritual awakening, and that if you are seeing this number repeatedly, you are being called to a spiritual pathway as a lightworker.

But 11:11 is not the only significant number pattern. Any sequence of three or four repeated numbers has numerological significance. People probably see 11:11 more than the others because 11:11 is the only four-digit sequence which can appear on our clocks, but 222 or 2222, 333 or 3333 and so on are also deeply meaningful.

If you think you’re starting to see number patterns regularly, you’ll find it helpful to keep a log or a diary recording when and where you see them. Of course, confirmation bias plays a part here, and a sceptic would suggest that you’re not seeing these patterns any more often than any other random pattern of numbers, but you’re just subconsciously choosing to notice the one you want to notice. We don’t remember the dozens of times a day we glance at a clock and it says some other time, but we do remember if it says 11:11. While there’s undoubtedly something in that concept, it doesn’t negate that the number patterns you choose to pay attention to may well have some significant symbolic message for you.

111, 1111, 1:11 or 1.11

As you might expect, the number one connects in numerology with the concept of a beginning. If you are repeatedly seeing a 1-based number pattern, it could be a sign from the universal consciousness that the time is right to make a fresh start. A new cycle is yours for the taking, but action on your part is needed to kick it off. Whether it’s a new business you want to launch, or a new relationship you’re seeking, pay attention to these cosmic nudges and take positive steps to get something new off the ground.

222, 2222, 2:22 or 2.22

Two is feminine energy which speaks of harmony, love and balance. If you’re repeatedly seeing a 2-based number pattern, ask yourself if everything in your life is as balanced as it should be. This may be your prompt to adjust your work-life balance for example, or to balance your responsibilities against some me time. The number two is also about feelings and emotions, especially in love and interpersonal relationships. If you’re looking for love, the cosmos may be telling you that a soul mate is on the way.

333, 3333, 3:33 or 3.33

The energy of the number three is all about self-expression and creativity. If you’re repeatedly seeing a 3-based number of patterns, you’re being prompted to step into your full power as a manifestor and co-creator of your life. Set your imagination free and know that your thoughts create your reality. Perhaps it’s time for you to express who you really are instead of fitting into someone else’s boxes. Speak up, create, express yourself and don’t hold back.

444, 4444, 4:44 or 4.44

Four in numerology is about stability – think of the stability of a solid square. The energy of this number manifests itself in matters to do with our home life – our own source of stability – and issues around security, both physical and emotional. If you’re seeing a 4-based number pattern on a regular basis, the cosmos may be urging you to stay put or to have patience. Wait a while before making dramatic changes. While you’re waiting, work on nurturing yourself so that you feel safe and in control.

555, 5555, 5:55 or 5.55

If the energy of four is stable, the energy of the number five is unstable, inviting – if not demanding – change. Change can be daunting at the best of times, but if you’re repeatedly seeing a 5-based number pattern, it’s heading your way, like it or not. Prepare for this change in the first instance by embracing it. The number five asks that you surrender or let go of all that no longer serves you. This may feel like a big ask, and a risk, but this is a necessary step before a new cycle can begin.

666, 6666, or 6.66

The energy of the number six is all about duty, responsibility and service. If you are repeatedly seeing a 6-based number pattern, ask yourself whether you’re truly living up to your responsibilities – or perhaps at the other end of the scale whether your responsibilities are drowning you. The number six can bring worry and feelings of fear or angst, so seeing this pattern may be a nudge from the cosmos that you need to take better care of yourself. You can’t care for others unless you are well yourself. If you’re seeing this pattern regularly, get health niggles checked out.

777, 7777 or 7.77

The energy of number seven is about intuition and instinct. Christians believe that number seven is a lucky number, because it was on this day during creation that god rested. In Chinese numerology, however, number seven, like number four, is intensely unlucky. Forget notions of either luck or bad luck and instead understand that you make your own luck, based in large part on whether or not you listen to your instincts. If you’re seeing a 7-based number pattern regularly, the cosmos wants you to listen to your gut. Trust yourself and don’t be deceived by what others tell you.

888, 8888 or 8.88

Eight is a powerful number which tends to bring transformation and growth. It looks similar to the symbol for infinity and it is a reminder that however bad things have been, and however long the journey, you have it within your power to direct your own life. If you’re repeatedly seeing an 8-based number pattern, you have probably been through a tough time recently. This pattern is the universal consciousness telling you that you will emerge into better times if – and it’s a big if – you can trust the process.

999, 9999 or 9.99

Here in the UK, we are conditioned to associate the sequence 999 with an emergency or crisis, since it’s the number we use to call the emergency services. However, in numerology, the number nine is associated with wisdom, completion and a universal compassion for our fellow earth-dwellers. If you’re repeatedly seeing a 9-based number pattern, you may be drawing close to the end of one particular growth cycle – but fear not, because every ending leads to another beginning. A nine sequence may also be your prompt to get involved with humanitarian causes, or to share the wisdom you have learned thus far. When you see repeated nines, start to clear the decks – and your clutter – so that when this cycle is ended, you can face the future with confidence.