Ever wonder how tarot cards can give you insight into your day, your life, or a big question you have? Tarot isn’t just for professionals; it’s a tool anyone can use, even beginners. But where do you start, and how do you make sense of all those mystical symbols?

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to perform a simple tarot reading for yourself. You’ll learn everything you need, from setting up your space to understanding the cards you draw. Let’s dive right in.

Why Read Tarot for Yourself?

What’s the first thing you think of when you hear “tarot”? Predictions? Mystical powers? Tarot is so much more than that. It’s a way to connect with your intuition and gain clarity. Sometimes, you already have the answers you’re seeking; the cards help bring them to the surface.

When you read tarot for yourself, you’re creating space to reflect on what’s happening in your life. Whether you’re navigating a tough decision or just want to check in with your emotions, tarot can offer guidance.

But can you trust yourself to read your cards without bias? The short answer: yes, with practice. It’s all about asking the right questions and staying open to what the cards reveal.

Setting Up Your Space

Your environment matters when you’re reading tarot. Think of it as setting the stage for your intuition to shine.

Find a Quiet Spot: Choose a place where you won’t be interrupted. A clear mind works best in a peaceful space.

Clear Your Energy: Take a few deep breaths or light a candle. Some people like to burn sage or incense to cleanse the area.

Choose a Surface: A simple table works, but you can also lay down a cloth to make it feel special.

It’s not about making the setup fancy; it’s about creating a vibe that feels calm and focused. Once your space feels good, you’re ready to start.

Picking the Right Deck

Not all tarot decks are the same. If you’re new to tarot, the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is a great place to begin. It has clear imagery and is widely used, so you’ll find plenty of resources to help you learn.

If another deck catches your eye, that’s fine too. The most important thing is that you feel drawn to the artwork and symbolism. Your connection to the deck makes a difference.

Spend a few moments shuffling your cards before you read. This helps mix up the energy and lets you get familiar with the deck.

How to Ask the Right Questions

The key to a helpful tarot reading is asking questions that guide you to insight. Avoid questions with yes-or-no answers; tarot is better at exploring possibilities and uncovering layers of meaning.

Instead of “Will I get the job?”, try “What can I do to improve my chances of getting the job?”

Instead of “Does this person like me?”, ask “What is the potential of my relationship with this person?”

The more open-ended your question, the more room the cards have to speak.

A Simple 3-Card Spread

If you’re new to tarot, start with a simple spread like the three-card spread. It’s easy to understand and gives plenty of insight.

Here’s how it works:

Shuffle your deck while focusing on your question.

Draw three cards and place them in a row.

Assign meaning to each card. A common setup is:

• Card 1: The past (What led to the current situation?)

• Card 2: The present (Where are you now?)

• Card 3: The future (Where is this situation heading?)

Take your time with each card. Look at the imagery, colors, and symbols. What’s the first thing that catches your eye? Trust your gut reaction.

Interpreting the Cards

Tarot cards have traditional meanings, but your personal interpretation matters too. Here’s a quick way to start understanding the cards:

Look at the Symbols: What’s happening in the image? Is it peaceful, chaotic, or mysterious?

Consider the Suit: The suit of the card tells you the area of life it relates to:

• Cups = Emotions and relationships

• Pentacles = Work and finances

• Wands = Energy and passion

• Swords = Thoughts and challenges

Notice the Numbers: Numbers can hint at stages of a journey. For example, Aces are beginnings, while Tens signify completion.

For example, if you pull the Two of Cups in the “present” position, it might suggest harmony in a relationship or partnership. If you draw the Tower in the “future” position, it could indicate a sudden change ahead.

Journaling Your Reading

Writing down your reading helps you process the cards and notice patterns over time. Use a notebook or even your phone to jot down:

The date of the reading

The question you asked

The cards you drew and their positions

Your initial thoughts

Later, you can look back and see how things unfolded. It’s fascinating to notice how the cards reflect your life.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Reading tarot for yourself isn’t about predicting doom or obsessing over outcomes. Here are a few traps to avoid:

Don’t Over-Read: Pulling cards over and over for the same question only creates confusion. Trust your first reading.

Don’t Force Positivity: If a card seems negative, think of it as a challenge or opportunity for growth.

Don’t Forget the Big Picture: One reading doesn’t define your entire life. Take it as a piece of the puzzle, not the whole story.

Practice Makes Progress

The more you practice reading tarot, the more confident you’ll feel. Start with small questions, like “What energy should I focus on today?” As you get comfortable, move on to bigger topics.

You don’t have to memorize every card right away. Keep a guidebook or cheat sheet nearby until you feel more familiar.

Using Tarot for Self-Care

Tarot isn’t just about solving problems; it’s also a great tool for self-care. Use it to:

Reflect on your goals

Explore your emotions

Gain perspective during stressful times

For example, you might pull a card each morning as a daily intention or focus point. Or, you could use tarot as a journal prompt when you’re feeling stuck.

When to Seek Outside Help

Sometimes, it’s hard to stay objective when reading for yourself. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, consider consulting a professional reader. They can provide fresh insight and a different perspective.

Remember, tarot is a tool, not a rulebook. Use it to explore, reflect, and grow.

Let Tarot Lead You Forward

Tarot isn’t as mysterious or intimidating as it seems. By following these steps, you can start doing simple, meaningful readings for yourself. Take your time, trust your intuition, and enjoy the process. Whether you’re asking about life’s big questions or just curious about what the day holds, tarot is there to guide you.