78 cards, one at a time

UprightYou want to try something new and don't yet know how it will go. You can make a start, but don't forget to check the basics.

ReversedMaybe acting with too little thought, or so afraid of mistakes that you never try. First see which one it is for you.

ImageryWaite's Fool faces the sky with a white dog at his feet; the white rose stands for pure passion, and the cliff is the unknown, and also the doorway into life.

What do I still need to check before this begins?

UprightYou already have some skills and tools. Try turning the idea into something real. Start with what you have instead of waiting for everything to be in place.

ReversedThere may be a gap between the idea and the doing. Also watch for someone who talks more than they deliver. Ask for promises in concrete terms.

ImageryAn infinity sign (∞) above his head and an ouroboros at his waist; on the table, a wand, a cup, a sword and a pentacle. One hand points to the sky and one to the earth: a conductor between heaven and earth.

What do I have right now that I can use?

UprightSome information isn't clear yet, so it's a time to observe. Pay attention to how you feel, and leave room to check the facts.

ReversedYou may be ignoring your feelings, or mistaking guesses for intuition. Don't rush to conclusions about what you're unsure of.

ImageryShe sits between a black and a white pillar (B and J), a veil of pomegranates behind her hiding deep water; the TORA scroll on her lap is half hidden: mysteries open only to a quiet mind.

What do I actually know, and what am I guessing?

UprightAbout care, creating, and a comfortable life. Look at what support a relationship or project needs.

ReversedYou may be looking after others too much, or waiting for someone else to arrange things. First check whether your own needs are being cared for.

ImageryA shield with the sign of Venus, a crown of twelve stars, a waterfall behind her feeding a fertile river; she reclines on soft cushions, the embodiment of nature and the senses.

Have I been neglecting my own needs lately?

UprightPlanning, rules and a clear division of work are needed. Spell out responsibilities and deadlines and things get easier to handle.

ReversedThere may be too much control, or too little planning. See which rules help and which only make the work harder.

ImageryA grey stone throne carved with rams' heads, the figure clad in armour, barren mountains behind: order is won from chaos.

Have we made clear who is responsible for what?

UprightYou may need to look at established methods, ask a teacher, or learn the rules of a group.

ReversedThe usual way may not fit the problem you have now. You can raise questions instead of following along because everyone else does.

ImageryA triple crown and triple cross, with two crossed keys at his feet: keys to the inner and outer mysteries, handed down through ritual and tradition.

Why does this rule exist? Does it still apply?

UprightOften about relationships, shared values and important choices. First say clearly what each of you cares about.

ReversedYou may want different things, or you haven't settled on your own choice yet. The differences need to be talked about.

ImageryThe archangel Raphael spreads his wings above; Adam looks at Eve and Eve looks up at the angel: love as a path to the sacred. Behind them stand the Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge.

Do I really want this, or am I afraid of letting someone down?

UprightThings are starting to move. You need to choose a direction and balance different needs. Before charging ahead, check how much you can actually steer.

ReversedYou may be rushing, or several goals may be pulling against each other. Adjust your pace instead of pushing through on willpower alone.

ImageryA starry canopy, crescent moons on the shoulders, a square stone on the chest, the city walls behind: he carries an inner order out into the world.

Where do I actually want to go right now?

UprightFacing a difficulty, patience and steadiness may work better than force. It's also fine to admit you need time.

ReversedYou may be tired, low on confidence, or working hard to hold your feelings down. First understand what's going on with you, and stop forcing yourself to hold it together.

ImageryA young woman with an infinity sign above her head holds a lion with a garland of flowers: instinct doesn't need killing, only taming with love.

Besides gritting my teeth, how else could I handle this?

UprightA time to think on your own, look things up, or ask someone with experience. Fewer distractions for a while may help you think clearly.

ReversedTime alone may be turning into isolation, or you keep searching for answers without acting. See whether you need to talk to someone.

ImageryThe six-pointed star in the lantern is the light of wisdom; he stands on the summit lighting the way for those who follow, not fleeing the world.

Do I need some quiet, or do I need help?

UprightCircumstances may change, and existing plans may need adjusting. Look at the new situation first, then decide how to respond.

ReversedPlans may not go as hoped, or a similar situation keeps happening. Separate what you can adjust from what's out of your hands for now.

ImageryThe wheel is inscribed with TARO and the name of God (YHVH), and in the four corners the four living creatures read in the clouds: at the centre of change there is an unchanging law.

The situation has changed. Do my plans need to change too?

UprightLook at the facts, terms and responsibilities, and judge fairly. Make sure important agreements are clear.

ReversedInformation may be incomplete, responsibility unclear, or judgement coloured by bias. Fill in the missing facts first.

ImageryThe upright sword stands for impartial decision, the scales for weighing; behind the purple curtain is a higher law.

Have I missed anyone's side of the story?

UprightWhen you can't move for now, try seeing things from another angle. Some waiting is necessary, but know what you're waiting for.

ReversedYou may keep putting things off, or give a lot without getting anywhere. Check whether the waiting still has a reason.

ImageryHe hangs upside down from a living T-shaped tree, his head glowing and his face serene; he chose this: it's a posture of initiation, not punishment.

Am I waiting for the right moment, or do I not know how to start?

UprightA chapter may need to close, and an old way of doing things may no longer fit. This card should never be used to judge life or death.

ReversedYou know something needs to change but don't want to let go of what's familiar. Start with the smallest part.

ImageryA skeleton knight on a white horse carries a black banner, its white rose a promise of life; in the distance, between two towers, the sun is about to rise.

What no longer fits, but I keep holding on to?

UprightDifferent approaches need blending, slowly finding the right mix. Adjustments don't have to be perfect in one go.

ReversedThings may be out of balance, or your paces may be too far apart. See which part needs less, and which needs more.

ImageryThe angel stands with one foot in the water and one on the bank, a sun mark on the forehead; light shaped like a crown shines from a distant mountain pass: the middle way leads to completion.

Is the way I'm sharing out my time and energy working?

UprightYou may be held by a habit, a desire or a relationship. First admit what you get from it, and what it costs you.

ReversedYou may be starting to see the limits and want to break the habit, or only avoiding it for now. Check whether anything has really changed.

ImageryAn inverted pentagram and a downturned torch; the two chained figures have grown horns and tails: bound long enough, people forget who they were.

Why can't I let this go?

UprightSomething you believed in or relied on has been shaken. First establish what actually happened and what needs dealing with now.

ReversedYou may have noticed the problem long ago and kept putting it off, or you may be adjusting slowly. Read it with the other cards.

ImageryA tower on a lone peak, its crown blasted off, two figures falling; 22 sparks of light (Yod) drift down: amid the destruction, grace falls too.

Which problem has actually been dragging on for a long time?

UprightAfter a rough patch, a little hope returns. Give yourself time to recover, then try what you want to do.

ReversedYou may have lost confidence for now, or hopes and reality may not match. Find one small sign of progress you can confirm.

ImageryA naked young woman kneels on one knee, pouring water into the pool and onto the earth, beneath a great eight-pointed star and seven small stars: having no defences is complete trust.

Has anything lately made me feel it's worth another try?

UprightInformation is unclear, and feelings and guesses may be mixed up. Observe and check before you decide anything.

ReversedSome doubts may be clearing, or you may still be going round in circles of worry. Check which ones have evidence behind them.

ImageryThe moon shows both a face in profile and a radiance, with 15 drops of dew falling; a path runs between two towers into the unknown: the road everyone has to walk at night.

Is this something I know for sure, or something I'm worried about?

UprightOften about clarity, happiness and things moving forward. Enjoy the results, and note down what went well.

ReversedProgress may feel too slow, or you did it but aren't satisfied. See whether your expectations are too high.

ImageryThe sun has both straight and wavy rays, for reason and feeling together; the child's nakedness is complete openness, and the red banner is the life force of rebirth.

What is actually better than it used to be?

UprightA time to look back at past choices and decide what to do next. A new decision can build on what you've learned.

ReversedYou may keep blaming yourself, or keep avoiding a decision. First say clearly why.

ImageryThe archangel Gabriel sounds the trumpet, its banner bearing a red cross; people rise from their coffins with open arms: what is resurrected is not the body but the soul's purpose.

If I could choose again, what would I change?

UprightA chapter is complete. Gather what you've achieved and confirm what comes next. Give yourself time to celebrate and rest.

ReversedMaybe only the wrapping up is left, or it's done but doesn't feel finished. Check what still needs to be handed over or said.

ImageryThe oval wreath stands for wholeness and the womb, and the four living creatures in the corners echo the Wheel of Fortune: the Fool has finished the journey, and the World is the homecoming.

What would it take for this to be truly finished?

UprightA new idea or something you want to start. Try a small version first and see whether you really want to keep going.

ReversedYou may lack energy, or have an idea but no way to start. First check whether you're too tired or not interested enough.

Which idea do I most want to try first?

UprightYou're weighing the next plan or different options. Gather information first and assess what you have to work with.

ReversedYou may have planned for ages without daring to choose, or be rushing off without thinking it through. List your concerns.

What information am I still missing to decide?

UprightYou've taken the first steps. Now watch for responses and results, and see whether you need others to work with you.

ReversedProgress may be delayed, or the response you hoped for hasn't come. Check the arrangements before writing off the whole plan.

What am I waiting for? Is there an agreed deadline?

UprightPerhaps a stage worth celebrating, or time with people you know well. Notice the everyday routines that help you feel settled.

ReversedA stable arrangement may need adjusting, or you may have different ideas about home. Find time to talk it through.

What kind of company or surroundings help me relax?

UprightPeople see things differently, and there may be competition or friction. Agree on what you're trying to solve. You don't need to fight over every word.

ReversedYou may be avoiding conflict, or things look calm while the problem remains. Think about which differences need to be said out loud.

Are we discussing the issue, or trying to win?

UprightYour efforts are recognised, or there's a visible result. Accept the praise, and remember the people who worked with you.

ReversedYou may not get the recognition you hoped for, or care too much about what others think. Look back at what you actually achieved.

Apart from other people's praise, how do I judge whether I did well?

UprightYou need to explain where you stand and face other opinions. Respond to what matters most. You don't have to take on everything.

ReversedYou may be too tired to keep arguing, or unsure of your position. Rest first and think it through again.

What is worth continuing to fight for?

UprightNews and progress may come fast and need a quick response. Check the details, then keep up.

ReversedOften about delays, rescheduling or communication not getting through. When you hear nothing, check on progress instead of guessing.

Who can I ask directly about progress?

UprightAfter a hard stretch you may have become cautious or guarded. Protect yourself, but also see whether this situation is different.

ReversedYou may be exhausted, or your guard may be keeping people away. Ask yourself whether you need rest or support.

How much energy do I have left? Who could help?

UprightYou're carrying too many responsibilities and it's getting hard. List the tasks and see which can be shared.

ReversedYou may be putting some of the load down, or be so busy you can barely cope. Deal with the most urgent thing first.

Which responsibilities don't all have to fall on me?

UprightCurious about something new and wanting to explore or learn. Ask and try first. You don't have to prove results yet.

ReversedEnthusiasm may fade fast, or fear of doing badly keeps you from starting. Make the first attempt smaller.

What would I like to try just to see, without needing it to succeed?

UprightEager to act, change or set off. Passion helps, but check the timing and what comes after.

ReversedPerhaps too impulsive, easily distracted, or progress suddenly stalls. Finish one thing in hand first.

Have I thought about how to keep this going once it starts?

UprightConfident about what you want to do and happy to share it. Speak up. You don't need to wait to be invited.

ReversedYou may care too much about comparisons, or be busy meeting other people's expectations. Check whether you still enjoy what you're doing.

Do I really want to do this, or do I want to be seen?

UprightA good time to set direction and lead others. Besides a clear goal, listen to the people doing the actual work.

ReversedDemands may be too high or too rushed, or there's lots of talk about direction without a plan. Make goals and responsibilities concrete.

Do people know how to meet what I'm asking of them?

UprightA relationship may be beginning, a new feeling arising, or you want to show how you feel. Notice what you really feel.

ReversedThere may be words you can't get out, or feelings that are too full. Give yourself time to understand them before you declare anything.

What do I want to say but haven't said yet?

UprightOften about mutual admiration and a relationship where both respond. Notice whether both of you get to speak and be heard.

ReversedExpectations may differ, communication may be lopsided, or a misunderstanding hasn't been cleared up. Ask what the other person means.

Do we want the same things from this relationship?

UprightSharing or celebrating with friends and companions. It can also mean support from familiar people when you need help.

ReversedGatherings or group life may be tiring, or someone may feel left out. Notice how you feel.

Who am I most at ease with?

UprightNot very interested in the choices in front of you. You may need rest or time to think again. Don't push yourself to say yes.

ReversedYou may be opening up to new options, or saying yes only from fear of missing out. Check whether you really want it.

Do I dislike this option, or have I had no energy for anything lately?

UprightSad or disappointed, with your attention stuck on what was lost. Slowly look at what support you still have, but there's no rush to bounce back.

ReversedYou may be starting to accept it, or still feel it was unfair. Give yourself time. You don't need to pretend you're fine.

Which part of this hurts the most?

UprightRemembering people, experiences or familiar things from before. Memories can guide you, but check whether things are different now.

ReversedYou may lean on the past too much, or be leaving a familiar arrangement. Tell apart missing something and wanting it now.

Is it that person I want to go back to, or how it felt back then?

UprightLots of daydreams and options, and the details still need checking. Pick a few that could really happen.

ReversedYou may be starting to rule out unrealistic options, or rushing to pick one at random. Check your reasons first.

Which are only daydreams, and which could I start now?

UprightWhat you put yourself into no longer satisfies you, and you may want to leave or find something else. Think clearly about why you're leaving.

ReversedYou may want to go but can't bear to, or keep looking back after leaving. See what staying and leaving each mean to you.

If I stay, what am I still hoping for?

UprightContent with something, or finally able to enjoy your life. You can admit you made it.

ReversedYou may have got what you wanted and feel less happy than expected. Perhaps it's time to check your expectations again.

Is this really what I want?

UprightOften about feeling secure in a relationship and the contentment of a shared life. Look at how you support each other and arrange daily life.

ReversedYou may picture family or partnership differently, and there may be things left unsaid under the surface. Make time to listen to each other.

When we say "doing well", do we mean the same thing?

UprightA new feeling, a creative idea, or something you want to tell someone. Try saying it in simple words.

ReversedYou may not know how to handle your feelings, or expect the other person to guess. Say how you feel before blaming anyone.

Can I say plainly what I need?

UprightWanting to get closer to someone you like or chase an ideal, and willing to show how you feel. Check whether the actions keep up with the feelings.

ReversedThe promises may be lovely while the follow-through falls short. Don't only listen to what's said. Watch what both of you actually do.

Is this hope backed by real action?

UprightAttentive to your own feelings and other people's, and good at listening. You can understand someone without taking on all their emotions.

ReversedYou may be too affected by other people's moods, or always put your needs last. Keep some time for yourself.

Which feelings are mine, and which belong to someone else?

UprightPatient with emotions, understanding feelings before responding. You can also state your limits clearly.

ReversedYou may hide your feelings, or use them to sway others. See whether you can speak openly and calmly.

Am I sharing a feeling, or asking others to do things my way?

UprightYour thinking is getting clearer. A good time to state the problem or make a judgement. Still check the evidence on what matters.

ReversedInformation may be incomplete, things may be poorly expressed, or you may be rushing to conclusions. Ask the question again from the start.

Which fact do I still need to check?

UprightTorn between two choices, and there may be information you'd rather not face. First see why it's so hard to choose.

ReversedA problem you've avoided may need dealing with, or too much information is making it harder to decide. Pick out the conditions that matter most.

What outcome do I least want to face?

UprightYou may be hurt or disappointed by something said or by an outcome. Admit that it hurts. You don't need to rush to find meaning in it.

ReversedYou may be starting to heal, or haven't yet said what hurt you. Talk about it slowly. You don't have to force yourself to forgive.

Do I need to talk it out, rest, or have someone with me?

UprightYou need to pause, rest or cut down on distractions. Give yourself time to recover before planning what's next.

ReversedYou may be getting ready to start again, or be tired but refusing to stop. Look at your actual energy, mental and physical.

Have I actually rested?

UprightAn argument may leave both sides feeling bad. Even if you win, ask whether you've lost the relationship you wanted to keep.

ReversedYou may want to make peace or step out of the argument, or still keep replaying who won. Decide what you hope the conversation achieves.

If this argument goes on, what will it solve?

UprightMoving away from a difficult situation, or slowly adjusting to a new arrangement. Change may take time and help.

ReversedSomething may be left unfinished, or old problems are coming along with you. Check what still needs dealing with.

After a change of scene, which problems will still be there?

UprightHandling things may take strategy, and check whether the information is complete. This card alone can't prove someone is lying.

ReversedYou may need to come clean, or a problem you've dodged can't be avoided any longer. Ask about what needs confirming.

What have I never said directly?

UprightYou feel you have few options and can't move. Separate real limits from worries you haven't checked.

ReversedYou may be starting to see other ways, or still need help. Try one small change first.

Which limit could I check again?

UprightRepeated worry and trouble relaxing. Separate what has happened from what you imagine. This card can't tell you anything about health.

ReversedYou may be ready to share your worries, or the pressure has eased a little, or you may still be keeping it in. Read it with what's going on and the other cards.

Who could I talk to about what's been worrying me?

UprightYou may be going through disappointment or an ending, or feel you can't hold on any longer. Take care of what you need right now and don't add more weight.

ReversedYou may be slowly recovering, or still unable to accept the ending. Give yourself time to work out what comes next.

What needs dealing with first?

UprightWanting to know more, ask questions, or get to the bottom of something. Be curious, and check where the news came from.

ReversedYou may be quick to argue back, news may have been passed on wrongly, or you asked a lot without checking. Verify before you repeat it.

Where did this news come from?

UprightWanting to solve the problem fast, speaking and acting quickly. First check that you've understood correctly.

ReversedYou may be charging ahead, speaking too bluntly, or changing direction again and again. Slow down and pin down the facts and the goal.

Am I rushing to answer before I've finished listening?

UprightAble to sort things out clearly and state boundaries. Speak directly, and check that the other person has understood.

ReversedPast experience may have made you too guarded, or the way you speak keeps people at a distance. You can be clear without assuming bad intent.

How can I state my boundary clearly without hurting anyone?

UprightA time to judge by data and principles, and explain the reasons for a decision. Keep in mind how rules affect real people.

ReversedYou may be too dogmatic, only accept your own view, or use logic to overpower others. Listen to the other opinions once more.

Has my judgement missed anything important?

UprightAn opportunity you could actually start on, such as a job, a course or a change in how you live. Understand the terms before you commit.

ReversedThe opportunity may be delayed, the conditions not there, or you're not ready yet. With money involved, do your research. A card draw is not enough.

Are the terms and costs of this opportunity clear?

UprightJuggling several things at once, adjusting time and spending. See whether you can still keep up with the current arrangement.

ReversedThere may be too much going on, and things are starting to slip. Prioritise and cut unnecessary work.

What can wait?

UprightTeamwork, division of labour and expert advice are needed. Make clear who does what, and agree how the result will be checked.

ReversedWorking together may not be going smoothly, roles may be unclear, or standards may differ. Go over the needs and responsibilities again.

Do we agree on what "finished" means?

UprightWanting to hold on to the money, arrangements or relationships you have. Stability has its place, but check whether you're too afraid of change.

ReversedYou may be becoming willing to let go, or spending and plans may be slipping out of control. Check the actual situation first.

Am I keeping what I need, or afraid to let go of anything?

UprightYou may feel short of resources, or face a difficulty without knowing who to ask for help. Look for support you can actually use.

ReversedThings may be gradually improving, or you're starting to accept help. Still check that your everyday needs are being met.

What help could I ask for right now?

UprightOften about giving, receiving and sharing resources. Say whether it's help, a loan or an exchange, so expectations don't differ.

ReversedWhat each side gives may be unequal, or help may come with unspoken conditions. Check that you understand each other.

Does this help come with conditions I don't know about?

UprightAfter working at something for a while, it's time to check results against costs. You can wait, but know how long you plan to wait.

ReversedYou may be impatient, or the effort and results may be far apart. Use real records to decide whether to change your approach.

If I keep going, what standard will I judge it by?

UprightPractice, patience and attention to detail are needed. Keep at it, and check that your method is working.

ReversedYou may just be busy going round in circles, or quality is slipping because your mind is elsewhere. See which step needs adjusting.

Is the time I'm putting in actually helping me improve?

UprightThrough your own effort you've gained some stability and room to choose. Enjoy the results and take care of daily life.

ReversedThings may look good from outside while you're under pressure, or you find it hard to relax and enjoy it. See whether your arrangements suit you.

Do I have time to enjoy the life I've worked for?

UprightOften about family, long-term plans and shared resources. Spelling out each person's expectations and responsibilities helps keep relationships healthy.

ReversedThere may be disagreements over money, housework or long-term plans. These need working out from the real situation. A card draw is not enough.

Does everyone agree to this long-term arrangement?

UprightA good time to learn a practical skill or start a small, workable plan. Get the basics down first.

ReversedYou may keep preparing without starting, or lack steady practice. Make today's part smaller.

Which small piece can I practise today?

UprightDoing things step by step, valuing commitment and steady progress. Slow is fine, as long as the method suits.

ReversedYou may be too attached to the old way, or stalled by fear of mistakes. See whether you can try one small change.

Am I making steady progress, or just repeating myself?

UprightCaring about daily life, home and practical needs. You can support yourself and the people around you with concrete arrangements.

ReversedYou may be busy looking after others while neglecting yourself. Check your sleep, meals and time first.

Is there room for me in my daily routine?

UprightGood at planning and using resources, valuing long-term stability. Arrangements still need checking regularly to see if they still fit.

ReversedYou may focus too much on gains and losses, cling to the old way, or measure everything in money. Listen to other needs first.

Besides income, what else do I want to keep?