When Not to Read

As a tarot reader,  we come to view tarot as a faithful friend we can always go to for advice. And that you definitely should. But but sometimes things are going on in our lives and getting advice from that friend might not be helpful. Here are some of those times you might want to re-consider doing a reading...


When your in a hurry: Tarot is not a race. While doing festival reading we become good at doing quick, efficent readings, but we do not want to rush a reading. When you are rushing, you are usually thinking about what it is you need to do after the reading and not actually tuning into the client (and sometimes the client is yourself). As a reader, you want to give good, through readings with well thought out meaningful advice. If your in a rush, read later or schedule a time to read that is more convenient. Don't sacirfice the quality of your reading because you don't have time.  

When you aren't prepared: If you are walking down the street and someone asks you, "Hey, you mind doing a 3-card spread about the job I'm starting on Tuesday?" you probably wouldn't do it. Why? Because you weren't thinking you were going to readings that second. Some people will do this and it can be fine, but others have routines and rituals related to how read, and get flustered when they can't do that. Having to read out of the blue might make you feel annoyed or pressured and that might make it hard for you to connect. Wait until you are in the right mindset so you can do a good reading.  

When you are very emotional: Reading for someone or yourself when you are very angry or upset can result in a skewed reading. Things in the reading may seem more bleek when one is upset. Or on the other hand, you may read the cards with bias because you want them to make you feel better. You will look at your spread about your ex and see the 3 of Swords, the Tower and the 10 of Swords and say "Well, maybe their is still a chance!" through all your tears. Take a step back and re-evaluate what you see. Remember to take your own ego, your own personal thoughts and feelings out of the reading and just read what is actually going on.

When your exhausted: Reading while your very tired might make your readings less effective because you may not be carefully examining what the cards are saying. Sometimes you may want to do a reading before you go to sleep, but the best thing to do is to wait until morning. Also, make sure that if you are anticipating a day full of readings that you are well rested. 

When you've been drinking and/or doing drugs: This should go without saying but worth mentioning. We all know that drugs and alcohol change the way we think and feel. So if you have been partying it up, it might not be a good idea to whip out those cards. You might want to wait until your mind is completely clear and you can be more accurate. 

So while viewing tarot as a good friend who gives real advice, make sure you it a break when your not feeling clear headed and leave it for another time.