Talkin’ Tarot With is a monthly feature designed to introduce my readers to different tarot readers from our wonderfully diverse community!  Each month, I’ll be asking various tarot readers 3 questions about their tarot philosophy and style, plus pointing you to their websites and blogs so that you can learn more about them!  I like to hand pick tarot readers that I feel are talented and interesting.

I enjoy meeting and learning from tarot readers who work with the cards differently than I do.  It’s all too easy to get quite fond and comfortable with our own methods – getting a different perspective can help a reader to grow and bust out of their own self imposed “tarot ruts”.

Recently I took a class with James Wells called “Tarot Counseling“.  This month long course delved into using tarot in more of an interactive counseling format which is quite different than how I tend to work with the cards.  James is an incredible teacher – wise and compassionate and infinitely patient.  I thoroughly enjoyed everything I learned in that class and have been able to put some of his techniques to good use with my own clients.

The best part of the class is that I received a reading from James which helped me to get a clear feeling of how tarot counseling actually worked.  Using deep questions and a custom made spread, James helped me to get to the root of a situation that I had been struggling with for some time.  His reading gave me the advice and tools I needed to liberate myself from the problem.  I cannot begin to tell you how grateful I am for the experience.  This was exactly the reading I needed!

Readers like James offer their clients the opportunity for deep personal healing, which takes tarot from a simple divination tool to something more profound.   If you are looking to connect with tarot in a whole new way, a reading (or class) from James may be just what you need.

James Wells makes his home is Toronto, a vibrant and tree-filled city in Southern Ontario. As a motivational listener, consultant, teacher, facilitator, and circle host, he is dedicated to merging soul and strategy. For him, contemplation and insight must be grounded in practice.

From James’ childhood until the present day, He has been curious about what makes people and the universe tick. This curiosity has inspired him to try out a variety of wisdom ways, some of which no longer resonate with him and some of which are helpful long-term resources. Through tools and processes such as circle methodology, tarot, Reiki, and journal writing, James is invited to remember his creativity, resourcefulness, and wholeness. The people who choose to work with him as clients and students also report that these ways are fruitful paths to their full authentic humanity.

Whether at home or abroad, whether in personal sessions or in workshop settings, James always aims to provide an experience of council mind, a way of deep witnessing and self-expression that respects the Whole.

In his “me time”, James enjoys reading, writing, music, walking, close friends, and good food. He’s also nourished by regular attendance at a shamanic journeying group and a circle-based spiritual community of healing and peacemaking, both in Toronto.

You can find James at his website Circle Ways.  He also teaches classes in Reiki, tarot and more as well as leading events.  Check out his EVENTS page if you wish to study with him.

He is also a published author – his recent book, Tarot For Manifestation is currently on the shelves and is a must-read for all tarot lovers!

James will also be one of the main presenters at Readers Studio 2012, the biggest tarot conference in the world.

Check out his answers to my questions below:

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1.  What is your philosophy about tarot reading?

James: A tarot consultation, for me, is simply another form of feedback.  It can give us a look at what’s happening within us and around us in the moment so that we can become more aware of the options that are available.  Awareness of options can lead to empowerment because we realize that there’s more we can do about a situation than we originally thought.  I think of each card as one of 78 possible viewpoints on one’s situation, so it doesn’t really matter which card gets chosen about an inquiry.  A person’s imagination and capacity for projection make a card relevant to any situation.  A tarot session, at its best, liberates us from our habitual patterns.

2.  How do you feel a client might get the most out of a reading with you?

James: A client will get the most out of our time together (whether on the phone or in person) if s/he works collaboratively with me.  I ask a series of questions when someone makes their initial contact with me.  A person’s responses to those will assist her/him and me to focus on what we’ll explore through the tarot.  During the consultation itself, a client can benefit by being open to dialoguing with me.  If s/he remember that it’s a conversation rather than being “read at” by me, s/he’ll go deeper into his/her own wisdom and become more aware of the answers and richer questions that reside within.  I suppose that all of this sugars down to clients suspending their notions about what a tarot session should be and going along with the processes that I offer.  It’s a journey of meeting each other where we are.

3.  What is your best piece of advice for an aspiring tarot reader?

James: Don’t try to be right, just do your best to be helpful when asked.  Also, cultivate a capacity to ask relevant, open-ended questions.

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A big thank you and hug to James for taking time to talk with me – and for the awesome reading.  It really was one of the most profound readings that I have ever had.

I can’t wait for his presentation at RS12!

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Doing tarot on the fly is a real possibility (and sometimes a necessity) but I have found that the best tarot readings come when both reader and querent have done a little prepping.

Why?  It’s because the right mindset will lead to a better reading (and experience) for all parties involved.

A reading done in haste is rarely done well – and a reading done with an unfocused mind or scattered agenda leads to a lack of clear answers.  Here’s how to prep for the best reading possible whether you are the reader or the client.

For the reader:  

1. Make sure you are rested.  A tired reader leads to a lackluster reading.
2. Be sober.  Don’t consume too many stimulants (caffeine).  BE PRESENT.
3. Meditate before opening your practice for the day.  A walk or any form of exercise is helpful as well.
4. Energy work helps to get the chakras balanced and chi moving through the body.  Reiki is a wonderful tool for readers.  I’m also a fan of “Energy Medicine” by Donna Eden.  Her techniques work wonders for me.
5. Keep your office quiet.  Soft music can help (although some readers need silence).  Yappy dogs and kids should not be present.  You need to focus.  Turn off the phone.
6. Breathe deeply.
7. Give the client an oracle card to read before you begin your work together.  This gives them a moment to slow down and clear their brain.  Many clients come straight from work and need a little time to center themselves.
8. If you are unwell, cancel your work.  You must be PRESENT for the client – if you are ill, you need to be present for yourself.
9. Cleanse the space before the client arrives.  Smudge, open a window, light a candle – whatever helps you to get your tarot groove on.

For the querent:

1. Do not get a reading if you are freaking out.  You will not be centered.  Wait if you can.  An aggressive, impulsive or trippy mindset will only hear what they want to hear.
2. Take time before your reading to quietly reflect on what you need from the reading.  Write a list of questions before you come so that you are sure to cover the information you most need.
3. Be sober.  Don’t consume too many stimulants (caffeine).  Yup, it works both ways – reader and querent need to be centered.  The calmer you both are, the more clear the answers will be.
4. Breathe deeply.
5. Tape your reading.  This will allow you to listen to the reading later – but it also frees you from having to take notes which can interfere with your ability to deeply listen to the reader.

Phone readings: For phone readings, the rules above apply but it is extremely important for the querent to have a quiet space so that they may be present for the reading.  For example, if you are getting a phone reading and you have too much noise in the background, you may not hear what your reader is saying.

The tarot reader will also need to make sure that they are holding the same sacred space for their client on the phone as if the client were in their office.  Do not be checking email or watching soaps in the background while on the phone.  Cut out your distractions and focus.  You must BE PRESENT for the client even if they are not in your office.

Email readings:  If you are getting a tarot reading via the email, take time to formulate your question.  Be as clear as possible.  Don’t mix too many questions into one as this will muddy your question and lead to confusion for the reader.  If you are comfortable, send a picture of yourself as this gives your reader something to focus on.

If you are giving a reading via email, just make sure that there are no distractions – once again, you want to focus all of your energy on the querent.  Email readings need the same care that in person or phone readings need.  Approach them as if the client were sitting right in front of you.

The main criteria for a solid tarot reading is a PRESENT mind.  If you can manifest that on demand, great (I can’t).  But for those of us who are not that spontaneous, the suggestions above can help everyone walk away from the experience feeling content.

“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.” ~ Buddha

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com

How do you prepare for your reading?  Not just as a tarot reader but as a client?  What helps you feel “ready”?

Most people come to a tarot reader because they are seeking clarity in their lives.

But there may be times when a reading won’t give you the answers you are looking for.  Is it because the reader sucked – or is it you?

In some cases a reader may indeed lack talent or perhaps have trouble making a connection to you but there are some measures you can take to get the most bang out of your tarot reading. And it begins with CLARITY on your part. (Funny how the universe works, isn’t it?)

Here’s what you need to do before you walk in the door and expect to be dazzled:

1. Know what kind of reading you want.  There are many different approaches to tarot.  Some offer straight up predictions, some are therapeutic, some can be interactive and there are those who are only about entertainment.  Find a style that appeals to you and then begin searching for a reader who fits the bill.
2. Pick a reader who is compatible with your energy because simply put, no reader can read for everyone.  A few tips for finding the right reader:
1. You can go by word of mouth but a word of caution: what someone considers a “good reading” may not be your cup of tea.  Be sure to ask details about what they liked or didn’t like about the reading.
2. If they have a website, read it carefully to see if you can get a feel for their personality.  Know their guidelines so you can honor their boundaries (ex: some readers do not answer questions about other people).
3. Contact the reader directly and ask questions about their methods and policies.  If you feel comfortable, it’s probably a good sign that you will be compatible. (In my opinion, this is the best barometer for making your decision.)
3. Get in the right mindset.  Approach your reading with openness. If you are coming in with a skeptical “prove it to me” attitude, you are putting your reader in a hostile and defensive position which is never conducive for a good reading.  Also, never ever get a reading if you are anxious or hysterical.  A desperate frame of mind will only hear what they want to hear, for good or for ill.
4. Write down your questions before you come.  There is nothing worse than walking out the door and forgetting the “big question” you wanted to ask.  Having a list keeps you focused and organized and insures you get the important questions answered.
5. Tape your reading.  This allows you to focus on the reading rather than taking notes. Plus it’s handy for reflecting later. (For the record, I prefer taking notes when I get a reading as I know I will never listen to a recording but that’s just me.)
6. Don’t be vague. Ask specific questions.  Be direct and to the point. Also, be sure to ask questions that empower your situation (ex: “What can I do to achieve _______?”)And please, resist the urge to “test” your reader by dragging a red herring across the question. An honest request to the universe creates honest, clear answers.
7. Give time for things to percolate.  Avoid the temptation to go back and revisit the reading without allowing enough time to pass.  Coming in and hammering the same question over and over only leads to a frustrated reader and mixed messages.  (My cards get very snotty when people are aggressively asking the same questions too often.)

In any service oriented business (yes, tarot reading is one), it is imperative that you be a good consumer.  If you’ve done your homework, you will be able to approach your reading with trust, openness and a clear agenda. And that is the perfect recipe for a great tarot reading.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com

special thanks to taoxproductions for the image

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

What are your tips for getting a better tarot reading?  I’d love to hear your suggestions!  Post them in the comment section below:

Talkin’ Tarot With is a monthly feature designed to introduce my readers to different tarot readers from our wonderfully diverse community!  Each month, I’ll be asking various tarot readers 3 questions about their tarot philosophy and style, plus pointing you to their websites and blogs so that you can learn more about them!  I like to hand pick tarot readers that I feel are talented and interesting.

Loud and boisterous people may get all the attention but it’s the quiet ones in the background that I am more intrigued with.  Over the last few years, I’ve been very curious about the woman behind Tarot Professionals, marketing director Tali Goodwin.  So you can imagine my excitement when I learned she was coming to the Readers Studio in April.

When I first met Tali, I was struck by her gentle and almost ethereal presence.  She is almost like a little fairy and there is a vulnerability in her eyes that draws you in. But after spending any time with her you quickly discover there is a quiet fire underneath the sweet exterior and a fierce intelligence that shines through with every word she says.

Recently, Tali began to come out of the woodwork and step into the spotlight with her new blog, The Tarot Speakeasy.  This smart site displays her deep knowledge of tarot and gives us all a better glimpse into her world.

Tali Goodwin is the Marketing Director for Tarot Professionals Ltd and the co-author (with Marcus Katz) of Tarot Flip, Tarot Twist, Tarot Inspire (forthcoming 2011) and two innovative new tarot books for Llewellyn Worldwide, which will be published in 2012. She organises the Tarosophy Tarot Conference in the Lake District of England and writes for Tarosophist International magazine. She is the co-founder of Tarot-Town, the social network for those who simply love Tarot.

She has recently launched her unique Tarot Speakeasy blog [http://www.tarotspeakeasy.com] which is the world’s only time-travelling tarot blog – shifting lingo and slang every few months! This blog is powered by shindigtarot.com, a unique online Tarot service with video-chat and integrated Tarot cards for which Tali provides tarot, media and marketing consultancy.

She has worked previously in occupational therapy (Alzheimer’s Care) and lives with her partner, Lyn Birkbeck, a leading astrologer and author. Her practice in Reiki has been ongoing since 1994. Her favourite tarot deck at present is the New Palladini deck, followed closely by the Sun and Moon Tarot (US Games Systems Inc.).

Her passion is the enigma and mystery of Tarot, and giving it a unique voice.

Check out her answers to my questions below:

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1. What is your philosophy about tarot reading?

Tali:  My philosophy about tarot reading is that it can be a means of reconnecting to the sacred and the most divine within ourselves. The Tarot cards are possessed with the spirit of myth, mystery and wisdom which is gifted to us when we read the cards. It helps to ignite our intuition and gives it a form of expression.

I see the tarot as a liber mutus, a mute book, comprising of pictures alone, therefore we have to be the ones who give it voice. This the work of the oracle.

The Tarot is a key, the key to unlocking our own unknown and that of our past and future selves.  I see Tarot as being within the same tradition as that of the Troubadour, who would pass on their knowledge through the medium of song. I feel strongly that it is a craft which can be honed over time, like any craft, it may not seem clear at first, but with experience and good practical tarot education it will become … more accessible – across many levels.

Tarot might be seen as the universal record of the memory of the universe and when we have a Tarot reading we are sharing all the knowledge that has gone before, that is in the making, and is yet to be.

As T.S. Eliot expressed in the first poem of his Four Quartet ‘Little Giddings’:

Time past and time future
What might have been and what has been
Point to one end, which is always present

I believe that this is the gift that is Tarot.

 2.  How do you feel a client might get the most out of a reading with you?

Tali: A client would get the most out of a reading with me, in that I have the ability to hit the mark, and be succinct in my delivery. I avoid waffle! Certainly, this is what I have been told by querents!

My first ever reading was when I was part of a Marketing Event at a 5-star hotel in London for a new NBC TV series. If it is possible to find yourself accidentally doing a Tarot reading then this is exactly what I found myself doing! So my first-ever querent was a hardnosed sceptic tabloid journalist, it was entirely possible that they could have critiqued my reading in a national newspaper – so no pressure there!

I read them the message of the Blasted Tower card, and whilst they were a little bemused, they then went and had a couple of other readings and these came up with the same card! Perhaps they took away with them a reminder that the universe can be giving messages if only we would stop trying to transmit our own, and this is something that a client gets from a reading with me.

3.  What is your best piece of advice for an aspiring tarot reader?

Tali: My best piece of advice for an aspiring Tarot Reader for them to immerse themselves in the art, and the disciplines which are connected, such as numerology, astrology and even kabbalah.  Also, connect with other people in courses, conferences, online and in person – as Tarot is about engaging life not escaping it!

One of the most important things I would also advise is to attend a few courses – there is so much to learn and so many great teachers out there. You can also learn so much from your fellow students; don’t leave it for years – just do it.

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Many thanks to Tali for taking time out of her uber-busy life to chat with me!  Be sure to keep your eye on The Tarot Speakeasy  for more Tali Goodwin goodness!

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

It starts out innocently enough.

You walk into a modest, ordinary office for a tarot reading. The reader begins laying out the cards and chatting pleasantly but suddenly a dark look crosses her face.  With grave concern in her voice,  she takes your hand and starts to talk about the “negative energy” surrounding you. Suddenly her eyes become wide as she exclaims:  “someone has put something on you!  You’ve been cursed!”  You’re scared but secretly relieved.  Now you know why your life sucks.  It can’t be your choices – it has to be a curse!  It’s not your fault!

And that’s when the reader begins to lay it on thick like the worst sort of used car salesman. They begin imploring you to get a “cleansing” or “healing” (and of course, only they can do it for you).

It will “only” cost you $99.00.

Now if you are a vulnerable type (which is what the reader is hoping for), you may be frightened enough to pull that money out of your wallet on the spot and get your “healing”.  But guess what? It does not stop there.  Before you long, you’ve spent a lot of dough and added a great deal of superstitious anxiety to your life.

You’ve just been conned.  Ouch.

But before you kick yourself for being a sucker, let me tell you this: it happens more than you know and many of the people who fall for this schtick are reasonably intelligent, normal folk.   And most people who work in the psychic arts are decent, hardworking, honorable and kind.  It’s the rare few that rip people off and give honest readers a bad name.

If you know the simple warning signs, you can minimize your risk and be able to walk away with dollars (and pride) intact.  Here’s what you need to watch out for:

1. Fishing for information.  If the reader constantly asks you questions, they are not doing a reading.  You should be the one asking the questions, not them.
2. Heavy handed solicitation.  Calling you at home, urging you to call them, trying to lure you in – any of these tactics are a huge red flag.  A reader should NEVER bother you for business.  You should only be going to a reader when YOU feel the need to go.  Period.
3. Dubious marketing methods.  Years ago, I had a client who got three mysterious tarot cards in the mail along with a frightening letter from a reader who claimed that they had “special information” for them and they needed to call within 7 days or they would “risk losing a major opportunity”.  Of course, this was nothing more than a ruse to get the client to call a hotline and spend money they didn’t have.  A special offer is one thing – scary mail or “urgent” emails demanding your immediate attention are another.  If you get either, throw it in the trash and/or hit delete.
4. The “curse” line.  If a reader begins to tell you about a curse or negative energy that someone “put on you”, stop the reading right there.  This is the oldest line in the book and a total crock.  No one has the power to put a curse on you.  Your problems stem from decisions or choices that you make in your life.  And you, only you, can change course at any time you want. To believe otherwise takes your personal responsibility away from you and puts all your personal power in the hands of others.
5. Charging you large sums of money for a “cleansing” or “healing”.  I once met a woman who went to a local con artist who demanded she give her $6000.00 to “remove her depression”.  (Needless to say, she was still depressed and six thousand dollars poorer.)  No ethical reader would EVER charge you a big fee to remove a curse, cure “negative energy” or solve your problems.  EVER.  If you really do have major emotional issues, a honest reader would refer you to the proper professionals who can help you.
6. Swearing you to secrecy.  If a reader tells you that you cannot tell anyone about your reading or it “won’t come true” this is a sign that they are not on the up and up.  You should be able to tell anyone you please about your reading and furthermore, you should be able to tape the reading if you wish.  This is a tarot reading, not some back alley drug deal – avoid readers who treat it like one.

These general warnings should protect you from getting ripped off by one of these low-lifes.  But this bears saying again: these people are in the minority.  Most of the time, a tarot reading is a positive, fun and empowering experience and most readers and psychics sincerely want to help you.

Take your time to find a reader that you like and trust.  And always remember this: you are the only one who holds the power to your life.  Don’t let anyone ever convince you otherwise.

Blessings!

Theresa

What are warning signs you look for?  I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below:

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

special thanks to taoxproductions for the image

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com 

Talkin’ Tarot With is a monthly feature designed to introduce my readers to different tarot readers from our wonderfully diverse community!  Each month, I’ll be asking various tarot readers 3 questions about their tarot philosophy and style, plus pointing you to their websites and blogs so that you can learn more about them!  I like to hand pick tarot readers that I feel are talented and interesting.

When I first started flirting with social media, I noticed Melissa Tarot’s cute little logo.  As whimsical as that logo was, I discovered that Melissa is no tarot lightweight.  She has one of the deepest, most thoughtful blogs – and better yet – she does killer readings!

Recently I was a “tarot lab rat” for a series she did on her blog.  Melissa picked a few of us (including my homegirl Starcana) for tarot readings on her site and the results blew me away!  I found her reading to be down to earth, accurate and helpful.  And that’s the best kind of reading in my opinion.

Melissa has been doing tarot readings since she was 14.  Twenty two years later, she’s still learning every day.  She’s currently madly in love with the Shadowscapes tarot and the Tarot of Trees deck.  She lives in the St. Louis area with her kiddos and assorted animals.

Website – http://melissatarot.wordpress.com
Twitter – MelissaTarot
Facebook – Melissa Tarot

Check out her answers to my questions below:

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1.  What is your philosophy about tarot reading?

Melissa:  My philosophy about tarot reading is that tarot is like a flashlight.  We can see down our path a bit, but tarot shows us just a bit further down the road.  I’m a big fan of allowing free will into readings.  If I give you a reading, that’s basically saying that right now – if you continue this way with these intents – this is the most likely outcome.  I love giving readings and having the obstinance of the client change the outcome.  I like reaffirming decisions and validating choices.  I love that these cards can give solace or confidence, and I love that they’re challenging.  As a reader, I think that the best realization I’ve ever come to is that I have to be a scholar.  I can’t just learn the meanings of the cards by memory and churn out readings.  There is so much to each picture, each element and each position.  I don’t think I’ll ever learn all of it, but I’m having a great time trying.

2.  How do you feel a client might get the most out of a reading with you?

Melissa: I think that my clients can get a lot from a reading with me by breathing and relaxing.  That sounds silly, but I have a pretty laid back style and I’ve found myself starting readings by saying, “Let’s see what we can see.”.  Oftentimes, one of my readings will go for 20 minutes or so – interpreting the cards, and then we’ll talk for an hour.  I don’t time my readings, because sometimes they’re 10 minutes and sometimes they’re hours long.  I think that a client can get the most out of a reading with me by being open about what they hear.  It’s hard to hear that something isn’t going to work out, but I always try to look far enough ahead to find balance.  One of my favorite readings to date (in 22 years!) was with Starcana.  Three cards, basically a Universal high five – and then we giggled and talked shop for an hour. I’m very straight-forward, and probably swear too much.  I’m honest, and I’m invested in each reading that I do.  This is a walk that the client and I are taking together, and they’re trusting me to help them through whatever they’re questioning.  I take my job very seriously, but I’m just delighted by it.  What a wonderful, strange gift we have.

3.  What is your best piece of advice for an aspiring tarot reader?

Melissa: For a new reader I’d suggest to study!  I used the book with my original Rider Waite deck for ten years – I needed it.  I didn’t want to half-ass the readings, and I didn’t want to be stuck without a resource and be uninformed.  Each card is so layered and has so much inside of it.  Each can be interpreted so many ways – as I said before, I feel very strongly that if you’re going to be a reader, you’re going to be a scholar.  Also, I’d advise keeping your nose clean.  There are a lot of unscrupulous readers out there who make the rest of us look bad.  Just remember that the Universe is watching you.  Always.  I had a friend ask if I could make more money, have more clients, etc., if I were a little more theatrical.  If I played up the “I am a spiritual advisor, hire me and I will set you free.” angle.  Yeah, probably.  I think I’d also get my ass handed to me by karma VERY quickly.  Also, the internet is a wonderful resource.  Not just for the cards, but for people like Theresa, Starcana, Catherine Chapman at Tarot Elements, etc.  I never would have found these wonderful colleagues without Twitter, of all things, and they teach me more than I could imagine.

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Many thanks to Melissa for taking the time out of her crazy busy day to chat with me.   Learn more about Melissa and great a kick ass reading from her at her website.

Blessings!

Theresa

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

If you’re going to commit your time to the daily grind of running a tarot business, you’ll need to be motivated every day because it’s hard out here for a tarot pimp (and even harder if you are a tarot wimp).

I look for inspiration everywhere.  And I bet you think my main motivational revelations come from the words of business geniuses such as Donald Trump or Marie Forleo.  Or perhaps from tarot superstars such as Mary Greer or Rachel Pollack.  Well, you are mistaken, my friend.

Don’t get me wrong – those people light a much needed fire under my can.  But my best badass business inspiration actually comes from hip hop artists. Yup. You read that right.

Now before you say WTH and back away with hands in the air and a look of disbelief on your face, let me tell you this: my admiration for rappers isn’t just because I like the beat (or think they are sex-say).  I like the way these cats do their thang, man. They run their businesses with cunning street sense, amazing vision and giant fearless BALLS.

And hear this: many of them come from very difficult backgrounds.  Most do not hold an MBA. In fact, it’s EXTREMELY unusual to find a rapper that comes from a silver spoon ivy league educated background like Donald Trump.  But that doesn’t stop them from succeeding. These guys make it because they set the intention and do it.

Do you think Jay Z let his hardscrabble childhood keep him from becoming one of the richest men in the world?  Nope!  Did 50 Cent let a hail of gunshots stop him from being one of the most respected rappers in the industry?  HELL NO.  So let me ask my fellow tarot readers this: what is stopping you from pursuing your dream to become a professional reader?

Let me dig into some of my favorite rap lyrics that keep me inspired to quit whining and keep on grindin’ and flipping those cards day in and day out like a true tarot thug:

1. “Check yourself before you wreck yourself.” ~ Ice Cube. Before you begin your business, it’s important to reflect on your motivation and to get your personal act together. Money is a good motivator but you must have a burning, yearning passion for tarot and for helping others if you intend to make this your occupation.  It can’t just be about the Benjamins (moola). Oh, and if you are going to be doling out spiritual advice to others, you better have your own life in order.  This work will drain the life out of you if you cannot manage to get your own house clean.  Make your dysfunctions functional and ground yourself.
2. “Gangstas don’t hide so I show my face often.” ~ Slim Thug. You can’t make a living if you are the best kept secret in your industry.  You will have to market your business. Learn how to promote yourself properly (social media is a great tool). And more important: be AUTHENTICALLY you.  Don’t be a weak ass imitation of anyone else.  Put your true self out there, heart on the line, face on the screen.  Let people know the REAL trill you.  Get your website up NOW and get your grill out there.
3. “I’m A Self Made Trillioinaire.” ~ Bun B. It may be tempting to put your business in the hands of someone else and let them host your site through their Ning thing or tweet for you but it is always best to maintain total control of your own content and empire.  Get your own url and host your own damn site (I recommend WordPress).  Be intimately involved with the running of your business, including your own marketing. Don’t give someone the power to pull the plug on your tarot empire.  Be self made, not dependent on anyone.  (PS It’s not as hard as you think.  If I can do it, YOU CAN.)
4. “Paid the cost like a Boss.” ~ Slim Thug. Sure, you can do some things for free but at some point you will have to invest in your business if you wish to grow it.  Paying for an office, accountant, computer, education, tarot conferences, lawyer and marketing may seem like a scary thing but let me tell you this: whenever I have invested in my business, it GREW by a major leap.  You have to spend some money if you want to make money.  Stop being a cheap ass and invest in your career.  It will pay off.  Trust me on that.
5. “Go on brush your shoulders off.” ~ Jay Z. Sadly, you will attract some haters at some point in your career (this happens in EVERY career – tarot readers aren’t the only ones singled out as pariahs in their community).  Negative feedback  and criticism may hit you from people who don’t believe in the tarot; it may come from fellow tarotists or your own family.  Let it go. Focus on good tarot and leave those haters in your dust.
6. “The bigger the bully, the more that bitch gonna bang.” ~ Rick Ross. Think you are going to raise your street cred by talking trash on a public forum?  Think again. Dissing others to make yourself look big will eventually backfire on your sorry ass.  Treat your fellow tarot peeps with respect. Don’t like someone?  Keep it on the lowdown.  Allow people to save face even if you think they are whack. Being courteous is not just good manners, it’s how pros operate.  Remember this – no one likes a hater.
7. “Is it worth it – let me work it.” ~ Missy Elliot. Being a tarot reader is definitely “worth it”.  Every day, you get the opportunity to help people find direction and better their lives.  You’ll have to work harder than you ever thought possible. But it is THE most rewarding career that you will ever have.  So stop waiting. JUST DO IT.

Now go on wid yo bad self and start flipping those cards and living your tarot dream.  No more excuses. Word.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

special thanks to taoxproductions for the superfly image

Who inspires you?  Where do you get the motivation for your career?  Post your role models and their brilliance in the comment section below:

Talkin’ Tarot With is a monthly feature designed to introduce my readers to different tarot readers from our wonderfully diverse community!  Each month, I’ll be asking various tarot readers 3 questions about their tarot philosophy and style, plus pointing you to their websites and blogs so that you can learn more about them!  I like to hand pick tarot readers that I feel are talented and interesting.

Although I find tarot to be a serious art form, I also am aware that it has a sense of humor.  Many times the cards have taken on a playful form when I’ve been reading.  In fact, the Divine often communicates more clearly when its messages are wrapped in wit.

And no tarot reader displays that unique blend of sacred and wittiness better than one of my favorite tarot peeps, Thalassa (whom I prefer to call Thuglassa because she’s THAT fly).  This tarot whiz has been working with the cards for 40 plus years and in that time she’s not only worked as a professional reader but she’s also created, produced and maintained the oldest tarot event in the world – The San Francisco Bay Area Tarot Symposium (SF BATS).  This is the grandaddy of all tarot events and an important contribution to our tarot community.

In addition to all this tarot goodness, Thalassa is also a historian, comedian, actress, teacher, entertainer and published writer.  Spend a little time with her and you’ll marvel at her creativity; you’ll be astounded by her breadth of knowledge; and you’ll be entertained like you never have been.

Thalassa is the producer of the San Francisco Bay Area Tarot Symposium – the oldest established, permanent floating Tarot Symposium in the world – it’s about to celebrate 20 years!) and founder of the Daughters of Divination (DOD).  She has been living, working and playing with the Tarot for more than 40 years (she was an infant prodigy).  She is also active in the production of Pagan and Divination events across the country, and her writing has been published in a wide range of publications, including the Llewellyn Tarot Reader almanacs since their inception.

She has been involved in stand-up comedy, choreography, and stage management, and currently teaches improvisation and physical characterisation for performers at Renaissance and Victorian festivals. Her other interests include historical recreation, needlework, and plotting global domination.  Thalassa lives in San Francisco with her husband (who is a saint), a sword collection, far too many books, and more Tarot cards than is safe to assemble in one place.

Currently, Thalassa is getting geared up for SF BATS (of course), a book (on Tarot, of all things), further developing her Tarot Tiara/Tarot Turban reading practice, launching a blog (called Tarot Pundit), and working on an “uncoach” process called La Rapteuse Transformative Arts.

Check out her answers to my questions below:

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True story: I was reading tarot at a ritzy party when an older, well dressed man sat down at my table, eyed my tip jar and sarcastically remarked “I’m going to get me a deck of cards so I can make as much money as you”.  He dropped a dollar into the tip jar and casually tossed his business card at me.  The card said “neurologist”.  In the back of my mind, I was stunned at his incredible rudeness.  But my face didn’t register one iota of reaction. I simply got down to the business of doing my job.

It’s scenarios like this that make me laugh.  Easy work? Not on your life.  Easy money? Believe me, you earn every penny when you are in the tarot trenches.  Easy to learn? You never stop learning.  Fun and glamorous?  At times….but like any job, tarot reading has a very unpretty side to it.

Before you “get a deck of cards” and start living your full time tarot dream, let me clue you in to a few hard truths:

1. Not everyone will like you or your work. There are plenty of haters out there that will find a reason to send you some bad mojo. They may discredit the way you read or they may simply not like YOU.  You’ll get your fair share of flack just for showing up and being you.
2. People will want you to be wrong. Skeptics love nothing more than proving you are “full of crap”. They want to cast doubt on anything that seems to be too far outside their norm.  When a prediction doesn’t come true or if you can’t guess their middle name, they’ll cry fraud and feel smug.  Keep rollin’, baby.  Brush your shoulders off.
3. You will be wrong. You won’t always get it right.  You will misinterpret.  This isn’t a big deal.  It keeps you humble.
4. Clients will leave and never come back. Not everyone will be dazzled by your talents.  People may like you just fine but may not need more than one tarot reading, ever.  And some will be pissed for whatever reason and take their business elsewhere.  Just keep on keepin’ on. The ones who really value your work and resonate with your vibe will stay.  Give them lots of love.
5. You’ll face discrimination – sometimes from your own loved ones. My mother was so ashamed of my profession that for years she told people I “worked for a corporation”.  I’ve had “friends” diminish my work as ‘fruity’. Even my own children were embarrassed at times because I didn’t do a “normal” job (although they secretly thought I was cool).  Let it go.  It’s okay to be an alien even amongst your own kin.
6. If you want to do this full time, you will have to learn some basic business skills. Thank goodness my father forced me to take a bunch of secretarial and business classes in school. I hated him for it because I felt it was a slap on my artistic soul.  Little did I know that it would come in handy. If you want to make this your life work, some business education will help make it easier.  (Thanks Dad!)
7. Some people will chastise you for making a living doing this work. Every so often I come into contact with someone who thinks I shouldn’t take money for reading tarot.   These people seem to believe that making a living doing this work makes it somehow less “spiritual”.  They don’t seem to realize that a full time reader has bills to pay, mouths to feed, and only so many hours in the day.  Your time is valuable. It is the only thing on the earth that is finite. Clients are paying for your time – not just the time you spend with them but the time you spend learning and developing your skill. Remember that the next time you get another request for a freebie.
8. Your boundaries will be constantly tested. From the no-show appointments to the “friends” who constantly request that you “toss a few cards” on demand to the person who shows up at 10PM begging for an “emergency reading”, you’ll have to be firm and polite – and stick to your guns.  You’ll make some people angry but you’ll keep yourself sane in the process.

These are wise truths to consider before you toss that neurology degree in the trash and pick up the cards.  You must approach this work with a thick skin and positive intent.  And although these warnings may sound discouraging, know this: this work is rewarding.  Every day, you have the opportunity to help people and transform lives.  And you can’t put a price tag on that.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

special thanks to taoxproductions for the image

I’d love to hear your thoughts about reading tarot for the public. What issues have you encountered?  How did you handle it?  What truths would you like to share with fellow readers?

As trashy as a lot of reality TV can be, there are some really good business lessons that can be learned from some of these shows. Recently, I was watching an episode of “Tabatha’s Salon Takeover” where one salon owner was using all sorts of “gimmicks” to attract clients.  He had a stripper pole, tacky promotions and even wore a silly wig.  Tabatha is a no-nonsense gal like myself and she was appalled by his circus side show schtick.  And guess what?  It wasn’t working.  His salon was going broke.

This reminded me of a yoga studio owner I used to know.  He had a great location and wonderful instructors.  But the studio was struggling.  He tried jumping on every yoga trend and used disingenuous marketing strategies that reeked of slickness and fraud. There was no sincerity or focus and the vibe of desperation was obvious.  People can generally sense when they are being shilled to or when someone is not operating out of integrity or passion.  One would think this would be especially true to a psychic profession.

Trends in our industry come and go. Those that have stuck around  have been groundbreaking innovations that have prodded tarot into new directions including tarot games, unique decks, interactive websites and even iPhone apps!  Others have combined Reiki, therapy and other healing techniques to turn tarot into an instrument for wellness. Modern technology has given professional readers the ability to promote their work on the world wide web.  While all of these advances may serve a legitimate purpose, it would serve us well to keep our eye on the fine line between being innovative versus being gimmicky.

Can innovation water tarot down to an unrecognizable form? Do we need to employ new techniques to avoid becoming stagnant?  And as professionals, should we add all sorts of other “tools” and skills to our repertoire or does that spread us too thin and make us “jacks of all trades, masters of none”?

It is my firm belief that one needs to have a solid base in tarot before they begin throwing random techniques and titles into the stew pot. Innovation is important.  One can become stuck in a tarot rut and using different methods can awaken new pathways that can help a reader serve their clients better.

But without a firm foundation and a good deal of experience reading people, these new techniques can lead to confusion and an unfocused reading that serves no one. A tarot reading is not the time to test barely digested healing techniques on your clients.

Let me relate this to the martial arts: when learning any form, you have to practice it again and again until you have achieved a certain level of mastery.  This can take many years of regular disciplined practice.  Only then, when the form is ingrained in your being, would you begin to work on experimenting with it. How could you possibly know what altering the form could result in if you aren’t even clear on the form itself?

As a reader it is vital that you establish a strong foundation in tarot.  This takes time and a lot of practice.  You have to read for many people over a long period to develop your skills.  You must learn the traditional structure well before you begin adding your own flavor to the mix.

Adding additional practices to your repertoire may make you a potentially more “marketable” reader but this must be done with the greatest care and respect for ALL of the disciplines involved and not merely out of a sense of desperation to attract more clients.  If you are thinking about adding new skills (such as Reiki, life coaching, etc.) you must be equally passionate about these as you are about tarot.  Otherwise, these “skills” and “titles” are meaningless at best and fraudulent at worst.

Your clients are not generally looking for a three ring circus. Most people come to a tarot reader for a tarot reading.  They want to know the future and they want to have a better handle on what is to come.  If you can provide that for them, you are putting them in the drivers seat to the greatest show on earth – their lives.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

http://www.tarotmentor.com

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2011

special thanks to taoxproductions for the image and editing