Using Tarot Spreads for Decision Making

Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take? Indecision can be paralyzing, but there are tools that can help you come to a decision with more clarity and confidence. One such tool is tarot spreads. Despite their reputation for being associated with the mystical and mysterious, tarot spreads can also be used as a practical tool for decision-making. In this article, we will explore the basics of tarot, what tarot spreads are, and how you can use them to make decisions. We’ll also provide some tips and tricks to get the most out of your tarot readings. So, pull up a chair and let’s dive into the world of tarot spreads for decision-making.

What are Tarot Spreads?

When it comes to Tarot readings, the term “Tarot spreads” can seem a bit perplexing to those unfamiliar with the practice. Tarot spreads are essentially different patterns of cards that are drawn and arranged in specific ways to offer insights and answers to particular questions or issues. In order to understand how Tarot spreads can be used for decision making, it’s important to first grasp the basics of Tarot and the different spreads available. Some of the most popular spreads for decision making include the Celtic Cross spread, the Intuition Tarot Spread, and the Manifestation Abundance spread. Each of these spreads offers unique insights based on the questions being asked.

The Basics of Tarot

Tarot is a comprehensive divination system that uses a deck of cards to gain insight into the past, present, and future. The Tarot deck is comprised of 78 cards that are divided into the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards that symbolize major life events or important turning points, while the Minor Arcana is composed of 56 cards that represent the daily trials and tribulations of life. The Minor Arcana is further subdivided into four suits: cups, pentacles, swords, and wands, which correspond to emotions, material possessions, thoughts, and actions, respectively.

When performing a tarot reading or using Tarot spreads for decision making, each card has a specific meaning or interpretation. The interpretation of each card is influenced by both the position of the card in the spread and the question or issue at hand. For example, the Ace of Cups may represent new beginnings or emotional fulfillment, but its interpretation may vary depending on whether it appears in a past, present, or future position, or whether it is part of a larger spread such as the Celtic Cross spread or the shadow self tarot spread.

It is important to note that Tarot is not a fortune-telling tool, but rather a way to gain insight and understanding into the situations and circumstances we face in life. Tarot can provide guidance and direction, but the ultimate decision and responsibility lies with the individual seeking the reading.

If you are new to Tarot and its various spreads, there are plenty of resources available online to help you gain a better understanding of this complex divination system. Whether you decide to create your own tarot spreads or use pre-existing ones like the ones offered on /top-10-spreads-relationship-guidance/ or /intuition-tarot-spread-interpretation/, the key is to approach each reading with an open mind and a willingness to explore both the positive and negative aspects of your question or issue.

What are Tarot Spreads?

Tarot spreads are specific patterns in which tarot cards are laid out for a reading. Each tarot spread has a different purpose and can provide insightful answers to a variety of questions. These spreads vary in complexity, ranging from simple three-card spreads to elaborate ten-card spreads. The main purpose of tarot spreads is to provide guidance, clarity, and insight into different areas of life.

One of the most popular tarot spreads is the Celtic Cross Spread, which provides a comprehensive overview of a situation and can be used to answer complex questions. Another popular spread is the Manifestation Abundance Spread, which can be used for attracting abundance and good fortune into one’s life. For those seeking career guidance, the Career Path Spread can help provide insight into career choices and the steps to take to achieve career goals.

Tarot spreads can also be used to explore areas of the self, such as the Shadow Self Spread, which helps to identify and bring to light one’s shadow aspects. Additionally, past life tarot spreads can be used to gain insight into past life experiences and their relevance to current life situations.

There are also tarot spreads specifically designed to help individuals discover their life purpose, such as the Life Purpose Spread. This spread can help identify one’s passions, talents, and values, providing guidance on how to align one’s life with their purpose.

Tarot spreads provide a structured approach to tarot readings and can be used for any area of life. While there are many popular tarot spreads available, individuals can also create their own spreads tailored to their specific questions or issues.

Popular Tarot Spreads for Decision Making

When it comes to decision making with tarot, there are several tarot spreads available that can help provide guidance and insight. It’s important to choose the right spread that aligns with your specific question or concern. Here are some popular tarot spreads for decision making:

Tarot Spread	Purpose
The Yes/No Spread	This simple two-card spread is ideal if you need a quick answer to a yes or no question.
The Three-Card Spread	A classic spread that provides insight into the past, present and future of your situation. It’s a good option for gaining clarity and identifying key factors affecting your decision.
The Celtic Cross Spread	One of the most well-known spreads in tarot, the Celtic Cross provides a comprehensive analysis of your situation, including the factors influencing your decision, your past experiences, your current situation, and potential outcomes.
The Career Path Spread	This spread is designed specifically to help you gain insight into your career path, including potential obstacles, opportunities, and the best way forward.
The Shadow Self Spread	If you’re struggling with a decision that’s being influenced by your subconscious or negative patterns, the Shadow Self Spread can help you identify and address those hidden factors.
The Manifestation Spread	This spread is ideal if you’re trying to manifest a specific goal, desire or outcome. It can help you identify the best way to move forward and any potential challenges that may arise.
The Life Purpose Spread	If you’re struggling to find direction or clarity around your life purpose, this spread can help you gain deeper insight into your passions, talents, and potential paths forward.
The Past Life Spread	If you believe that past lives may be impacting your current situation or decision, this spread can help you explore those past experiences and gain a deeper understanding of your present circumstances.

No matter which spread you choose, it’s important to approach your tarot reading with an open mind and a willingness to explore the messages of the cards. If you’re new to tarot, you can also create your own tarot spread tailored to your specific question or concern.

How to Use Tarot Spreads for Decision Making

As you’ve learned the basics of tarot and its significance in decision-making, it’s time to find out how to apply tarot spreads to help you make the right choices. Using tarot spreads for decision making allows you to delve deeper into your inner thoughts and subconscious desires. In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to use tarot spreads to make decisions, from defining your question to making the final call. Additionally, we’ll share some popular tarot spreads that are ideal for decision-making. By the end of this section, you’ll have a solid understanding of how tarot spreads can help you with decision-making, and you’ll be equipped with the tools to make informed and confident decisions.

If you’re interested in learning more about specific tarot spreads, check out our article on life purpose tarot spreads for finding direction in life or our guide on tarot manifestation abundance for attracting abundance in all forms.

Step 1: Define your Question or Issue

To use Tarot spreads effectively for decision making, step one is to clearly define your question or issue. The more specific and focused your question, the more accurate the Tarot reading will be. If you are unsure what to ask, take some time to reflect on your situation and identify the specific areas where you need guidance.

Here are some tips for defining your question or issue using an html table:

Tip	Description
Be specific	Try to narrow down your question to a specific aspect of your situation. For example, instead of asking “Will I ever find love?” try asking “What qualities should I look for in a partner?”
Avoid yes/no questions	Instead of asking “Will I get the job?” try asking “What can I do to increase my chances of getting the job?”
Avoid vague or open-ended questions	Questions like “What does my future hold?” or “What should I do with my life?” are too broad and may not provide actionable guidance.
Focus on yourself	The Tarot is a tool for self-reflection, so try to focus your questions on yourself rather than on others. For example, instead of asking “What does my partner think about me?” try asking “How can I improve my relationship with my partner?”

Remember, the Tarot is not a substitute for professional advice, and should not be used to make major life decisions on its own. If you are seeking guidance on a specific topic, such as career guidance or past life exploration, there are specialized spreads that may be more appropriate. Check out our articles on tarot career guidance and past life tarot spreads to learn more.

Step 2: Choose the Right Tarot Spread

Step 2: Choose the Right Tarot Spread

Choosing the right tarot spread is crucial as it will determine the type of information you receive from your reading. Each tarot spread has a specific focus and can provide insights into different aspects of your question or issue. Here are some popular tarot spreads for decision making:

1. The Celtic Cross Spread: This is the most well-known and complex spread, consisting of ten cards that provide a detailed and comprehensive reading. It is great to use when you need a broad understanding of a situation and want to explore different perspectives. You can learn about the significance of each card in our article about the Celtic Cross spread.
2. The Three-Card Spread: This is a simple and straightforward spread that can be used when you are facing a clear and specific question. The first card represents the past, the second card represents the present, and the third card represents the future or potential outcome.
3. The Five-Card Spread: This spread is useful when you need to explore different options or choices related to your question. It helps to weigh the pros and cons of each option and potential outcomes. The cards are usually laid out in a cross shape, with the fifth card in the center representing the outcome or advice.
4. The Shadow Self Spread: This spread is great when you are struggling with a decision or issue that involves your inner fears, doubts, or insecurities. It helps to uncover the hidden aspects of your psyche and provides guidance on how to face and overcome them. You can learn more about this spread in our article on tarot and the shadow self.

Before choosing a spread, it’s essential to think about your question or issue and what type of information you need from the tarot reading. It’s recommended to choose a spread that resonates with your intuition and feels most comfortable for you.

Step 3: Shuffle and Draw the Cards

Step 3: Shuffle and Draw the Cards

Now that you’ve defined your question and chosen the right spread for your decision-making process, it’s time to shuffle and draw the cards. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for interpreting the cards and making your decision. Here’s how to do it:

1. Clear your mind. Before you start shuffling, take a moment to clear your mind of any distractions, worries, or concerns. You want to focus your energy and intention on the question at hand, and not be influenced by external factors. You can take a few deep breaths, meditate, or simply close your eyes and visualize a calm and centered state of mind.

2. Shuffle your cards. There are different ways to shuffle a tarot deck, and you can choose the one that feels most comfortable and natural to you. You can shuffle the cards face-down or face-up, cut them into several piles, riffle shuffle them like a poker deck, or mix them in any other way that suits your style. The important thing is to focus your intention and energy on the question you’ve defined, and let the cards reflect the answers that you seek.

3. Draw the cards. Once you’ve shuffled the cards, it’s time to draw the number of cards required by the spread you’ve chosen. You can lay them out on a table, a cloth, or any other surface that feels right to you. Depending on the spread, you may draw the cards in a specific order, or choose them randomly. Again, it’s important to stay focused on your question and let the cards speak to you in their own unique language.

Remember that tarot cards are not meant to predict the future or provide clear-cut answers, but rather to offer guidance, insight, and perspective on the situation at hand. The cards reflect the energy and symbolism of the archetypes and patterns that shape our lives, and can help us tap into our subconscious and intuitive wisdom. So when you draw the cards, trust your intuition and listen to the messages that they convey.

Step 4: Interpret the Cards

After drawing the cards, it’s time to interpret them. This is the most important part of using tarot spreads for decision making since it gives you an insight into your situation and helps you make an informed decision. Here are the steps to interpret your cards:

• Look at the Symbols: Each card has a unique set of symbols, which can be interpreted in different ways. Look at the symbols on each card and think about what they represent to you. Try to identify any patterns or connections between the cards.
• Consider the Card Meanings: Each card in the tarot has a standard meaning, which can be valuable in your interpretation. However, keep in mind that these meanings can vary depending on the context of your question. Consider both the traditional meaning and your personal interpretation of each card.
• Read the Card Positions: Each card position in your chosen tarot spread has a specific meaning that adds to the interpretation of the card. Look at the card positions and think about what they mean in relation to the card drawn. This can help you gain more clarity about the situation.
• Use Your Intuition: While it’s important to consider the symbols, meanings, and card positions, it’s equally important to trust your intuition. Ask yourself what the cards are trying to tell you and how they relate to your question. Listen to your inner voice to gain a deeper understanding of the message.
• Consider the Overall Message: After interpreting each card, step back and look at the bigger picture. Consider the overall message that the cards are conveying. This can help you gain clarity about your situation and make an informed decision.

Remember, interpreting tarot cards can be challenging, and it may require practice to become confident in your interpretation skills. Don’t be afraid to consult tarot books, online resources, or a professional tarot reader for guidance. It’s also important to trust yourself and your intuition when interpreting the cards.

Step 5: Make Your Decision

After interpreting the cards, it’s time to make a decision using the guidance provided by the tarot spread. Making decisions can be difficult, especially if the cards aren’t entirely clear or if the information presented is conflicting. But there are a few things you can do to help you make the best decision possible.

1. Consider the cards as a whole. Look at all of the cards together and consider how they fit into the overall theme of your question or issue. Some cards may suggest caution or a need for further research, while others may inspire confidence or suggest taking action.

2. Trust your instincts. While the cards provide guidance and insights, it’s ultimately up to you to make the final decision. Trust your instincts and use the information provided by the tarot to help inform your decision-making process.

3. Don’t rush your decision. Take your time and don’t feel pressured to make a decision right away. It’s important to carefully consider all of the information presented by the tarot, and to make a decision that feels right for you.

4. Take action based on your decision. After making your decision, it’s important to take action and follow through with your plans. The tarot can provide guidance, but it’s ultimately up to you to take responsibility for your actions and make things happen.

5. Reflect on your decision. After taking action, it’s important to reflect on your decision and its outcome. Consider what worked well and what didn’t, and use this information to inform future decision-making processes.

By following these steps, you can use tarot spreads to make informed decisions and take action towards achieving your goals. However, it’s important to remember that the tarot is only one tool in your decision-making toolbox, and should be complemented by other resources and strategies.

Step 6: Reflect and Take Action

After interpreting the cards in the chosen Tarot spread, it’s time to reflect on the reading and take action accordingly. This final step is crucial in getting the most out of your Tarot reading and putting the insights gained into practice.

Reflect: Take some time to think about the reading and how it applies to your question or issue. Journaling about the reading can be helpful in gaining further clarity and understanding. Consider any patterns or themes that emerged in the reading and how they relate to your situation. Reflecting on the reading can provide valuable insights and information that you may not have initially recognized.

Take Action: Based on the insights gained from the reading, it’s time to take action. This could involve making a decision, changing course, or taking steps towards a goal. It’s important to remember that Tarot readings are meant to guide you towards a decision or course of action, but ultimately, you are in control of your own life. Use the insights gained from the reading to make an informed decision or take a measured action.

Once you have taken action, it’s important to reflect on the outcomes and any lessons learned. This can be done through journaling or taking time to meditate and reflect on the process. By reflecting on the reading and taking action, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, and be better equipped to navigate any challenges that may arise in the future.

Table:

Step 6: Reflect and Take Action
Reflect: take time to think about the reading and journal any insights gained
Take Action: make a decision or take steps based on the insights gained from the reading
Reflect on outcomes and any lessons learned afterwards

Tips and Tricks for Using Tarot Spreads for Decision Making

As with any skill or tool, there are certain tips and tricks that can help improve your success when using tarot spreads for decision making. While tarot spreads can offer valuable insights and clarity, it’s important to approach them with respect and intention. By incorporating these tips and tricks into your practice, you can enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of your tarot readings. Remember that tarot is ultimately a tool for self-reflection and personal growth, so trust yourself and remain open to the guidance that the cards can offer.

Trust Your Intuition

Trusting your intuition is a crucial component when it comes to using tarot spreads for decision making. Intuition is that inner voice that guides us towards our true desires and instincts, and it can be especially helpful when you’re facing a decision that requires tapping into your deeper self.

Here are some tips for trusting your intuition:

• Quiet your mind: When it’s time to consult the tarot cards, it’s important to take a few moments to quiet your mind before you begin. Take some deep breaths or meditate for a few minutes to center yourself and clear any distracting thoughts. This allows you to better connect with your inner voice and intuition.
• Let go of any preconceived ideas: Sometimes it can be difficult to truly listen to your intuition if you already have a preconceived idea of what you want the answer to be. Instead of trying to influence the outcome, allow yourself to be open to any and all possibilities. This allows your intuition to freely guide you without any external influence.
• Pay attention to your feelings: Your intuition often communicates with you through your feelings. Notice any emotions or physical sensations that come up when you think about the decision you’re facing. A positive feeling might indicate a good decision, while a negative feeling could be a sign to proceed with caution.
• Trust yourself: It can be easy to doubt yourself when faced with a challenging decision, but it’s important to remember that you have the power to make the best decision for yourself. Trust that you have the answers within you and that the tarot cards are simply a tool to help you access them.

Ultimately, trusting your intuition is about allowing yourself to tune in to your inner wisdom and guidance. By doing this, you can gain a deeper understanding of your decision and the best path forward.

Stay Focused on Your Question

One important tip to keep in mind when using Tarot spreads for decision making is to stay focused on your question. This means that when you are defining your question or issue in step one, you should approach it in a specific and clear manner. This will help you to avoid getting distracted by unrelated or confusing information that may come up during the reading.

Here are some ways to stay focused on your question:

• Be clear and specific about what you want to know
• Use straightforward language and avoid ambiguity
• Avoid asking multiple questions at once
• Keep your question in mind while shuffling and drawing the cards

It can be tempting to let your mind wander or to try to ask the Tarot cards for answers about multiple issues at once. However, this can lead to confusion and a lack of clarity in the reading. By staying focused on your question, you are more likely to receive clear and accurate information that can help guide your decision-making process.

Here is an example: Instead of asking the vague question “What should I do about my job?” be more specific by asking “Should I accept the new job offer at XYZ company, or stay at my current job?” This clear and specific question will make it easier to choose the appropriate Tarot spread and interpret the cards more accurately.

Remember, the Tarot cards can offer guidance and insight, but ultimately it is up to you to make the final decision based on your own intuition and judgment. By staying focused on your question throughout the decision-making process, you can use the Tarot spreads as a helpful tool to gain clarity and confidence in your choices.

Keep a Tarot Journal

One important tip for using Tarot spreads for decision making is to keep a Tarot journal. This will allow you to track your progress, insights, and growth with the Tarot as you use it for decision making.

Benefits of Keeping a Tarot Journal

Keeping a Tarot journal has several benefits. First, it helps you to remember the readings you have done, the questions you asked, and the insights you gained. This can be especially helpful if you are facing a similar decision in the future, as you can refer back to your journal entries for guidance and perspective.

Second, keeping a journal allows you to track your progress over time. As you continue to use the Tarot for decision making, you may notice patterns in the types of questions you ask or the types of spreads you use. You may also see how your interpretation skills have improved or how your intuition has become more finely tuned. By writing down your experiences, you can reflect on your growth and celebrate your successes.

What to Include in Your Tarot Journal

There is no right or wrong way to keep a Tarot journal. Some people prefer to write out their interpretations of each card and how it relates to their question or issue, while others find it helpful to draw pictures, diagrams, or mind maps. Here are some ideas of what you might include in your Tarot journal:

Ideas for Tarot Journal Entries	Examples
Your question or issue	Should I accept the job offer?
The Tarot spread you used	The Decision Making Tarot Spread
The cards you drew	The Lovers, The Two of Swords, The Nine of Pentacles
Your interpretations of each card	The Lovers could indicate a choice between two options, The Two of Swords suggests a decision that requires balance and compromise, The Nine of Pentacles indicates self-sufficiency and independence.
Your overall interpretation of the spread	The cards suggest that the job offer is a good choice, but it will require careful consideration and balance.
Questions or insights that arose during the reading	What does it mean to be truly independent? How can I balance my financial goals with my personal values?
Any actions or next steps you plan to take	Research the company culture more thoroughly before making a decision, make a list of priorities and values to guide my decision-making process.

Keeping a Tarot journal can be a helpful way to deepen your relationship with the Tarot and to gain insight and guidance as you make important decisions in your life.

Don’t Rely on Tarot Completely

It’s important to keep in mind that while tarot spreads can be helpful for decision making, you should not rely on them completely. Using tarot as your sole guide for major life decisions can be dangerous and irresponsible. Tarot is simply one tool among many that can help you gain insight and clarity into a situation.

It’s crucial to remember that the cards are not definitive or prophetic – they are simply a reflection of your current energy and mindset. Additionally, it’s possible to misinterpret the cards or let your biases and desires influence your reading.

While tarot can provide guidance and support, it’s important to consider other factors and make your decisions based on a well-rounded assessment of the situation. This might include seeking advice from trusted friends or professionals, doing research, and taking practical steps toward your goals.

Ultimately, you hold the power to make your own choices and shape your own life. Tarot can be a helpful tool along the way, but it should not be the only tool or the final authority on important decisions. Trust yourself and use tarot as a supplement, not a replacement, to your own intuition and decision-making process.

Tip:	Don’t use tarot as a crutch or excuse for avoiding responsibility or taking action. It’s important to take ownership of your decisions and their outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tarot spreads can be a powerful tool for decision making, allowing individuals to gain insights and guidance on important aspects of their lives. This ancient practice offers us a unique way to connect with our inner selves and the universe, tapping into our intuition and wisdom to make informed decisions.

However, it is important to remember that tarot readings should not be the sole basis of our decisions, but rather used as a complementary tool to aid us in our decision making process. It is also crucial to approach tarot readings with an open mind and a deep understanding of the symbolism and interpretations of the cards.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking heed of the tips and tricks provided, anyone can learn to use tarot spreads effectively for decision making. Practice, patience, and trust in oneself and the universe are key to harnessing the full potential of this mystical art.

Ultimately, the decision-making process is a personal journey, and tarot spreads offer us a unique path to gaining deeper understanding and clarity on the issues that matter most to us. Whether facing a difficult choice, seeking guidance on the future, or simply looking to gain insight into oneself, utilizing tarot spreads offers us the chance to generate new perspectives and outlooks on life. So why not give it a try and see where the cards lead you?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Tarot Cards Really Help with Decision Making?

While tarot cards are not a guaranteed solution, they can provide guidance and insight on decision making by tapping into your intuition and subconscious thoughts.

Is Tarot a Form of Fortune Telling?

While some people may use tarot for fortune telling, it is ultimately a tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and guidance.

Do I Need to Have Experience with Tarot to Use It for Decision Making?

No, experience is not necessary. The most important thing is to have an open mind and trust your intuition.

How Do I Choose the Right Tarot Spread?

Choosing the right tarot spread depends on the question or issue you are seeking guidance for. Research different spreads and choose the one that resonates with you the most.

Should I Use a Specific Deck of Tarot Cards for Decision Making?

It is best to choose a tarot deck that speaks to you personally, as this can enhance your intuition and ability to connect with the cards.

Can Tarot Spreads Help with Relationship Issues?

Yes, there are several tarot spreads specifically designed for relationship issues. The insights provided can help you gain clarity and make decisions that align with your values and goals.

How Many Cards Should I Draw for a Tarot Spread?

The number of cards in a tarot spread varies depending on the spread itself. Some spreads may require only a few cards, while others may have up to 10 or more.

Do Tarot Cards Have to Be Cleared or Cleansed Before Use?

While there is no scientific evidence to support the need for clearing or cleansing tarot cards, some practitioners believe that it can help to create a more focused and intentional energy for the reading.

Can Tarot Cards Be Used for Business Decision Making?

Yes, tarot can be used for business decision making as the insights provided can help you to better understand the situation and make choices that align with your business goals.

Is It Bad Luck to Use Tarot Cards?

No, using tarot cards is not bad luck. It is a personal choice and, when used with respect and intention, can provide a valuable tool for self-reflection and decision making.

References

• Making Tough Choices – A 5 Card Tarot Spread for …
• The Lovers