Why You Need To Discourage People From Buying A Reading From You

Powerful Me Oracle Cards

I see it all over social media: tarot readers enticing people to buy their readings with discounts and other special offers. It's a bit like clicking the Buy Now button for an email reading as if buying a t-shirt.

But if you are a tarot professional, then you actually need to discourage people from buying a reading from you.

Let's pause for a moment and think. Buying a tarot email reading shouldn't be like buying a t-shirt. It's a spiritual service that offers reflection and guidance.

The last thing we want to do as tarot professionals is to lower a reading to the same level as making an Amazon purchase, which you can return for a full refund.

While requests for refunds are rare, they do occur, mainly because some clients don't like the message they receive, and others weren't bothered to  peruse your website to learn more about what kind of readings you provide and your terms of service.

You need to discourage people from buying a reading from you as part of your marketing strategy.

This includes making it clear on your website what kind of readings you provide and your terms of service, which may include a NO REFUND policy for readings already carried out.

The latter is your personal choice and depends on your willingness to put up with "tarot reading shoppers".

These are people, who buy a number of readings online from various readers on the same question, and if they don't like your reading, they'll ask you for a refund.

There is this idea that you should offer a "money back guarantee" to make it easier for prospective clients to buy, but when it comes to provide a tarot reading in good faith, you will have spent time to carry it out, and that time is worth money.

By discouraging people to buy a reading from you with a no refund policy, you give them another chance to think before they buy rather than clicking the Buy Now button on impulse assuming they can ask for a refund if not happy.

Also consider listing reasons why NOT to buy a reading from you.

For example:

Don't buy a reading from me, if you

• want a prediction and then wait for it to materialise
• don't want to be pro-active about creating your future
• want a quick fix
• want the reading to be a miracle cure
• reject new perspectives and viewpoints
• are fixed on a certain outcome
• want me to tell you just what you want to hear

This way you may well get less requests, but you will get better clients who know what to expect. They will be a better fit and make this work more rewarding for you.

While "negative" marketing seems counter-productive at first, it can help you find more suitable clients who you can connect with more easily.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this.

Wamrest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

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3 Mistakes to Avoid as a Tarot Reader

When you begin and progress on your journey as a professional tarot reader, you may look for advice and inspiration from your peers, usually found on their websites and in online networking groups.

Although it is helpful and enjoyable to engage with your fellow readers, I have noticed over the years that there tends to be a herd mentality, which can have the unfortunate effect of falling victim to "trends"without applying your own unique flair.

I do understand that when you start as a professional, you are looking for all the help you can find to get yourself established, but at one point it is important to find your own way, apply your own ideas and think your own thoughts.

From that herd mentality and losing yourself into what everone else is doing, try to avoid the following three mistakes:

1. Being judgemental and presumptuous

Many tarot readers claim they are non-judgemental and objective, but are they really?

When readers announce in their blog posts that they refuse to read on repeat questions, or they "have to" rephrase some of their clients' questions, then in fact this sounds pretty much judgemental. They seem to judge their clients' situation based on these issues.

And when you read about their reasons why, then it seems that most of them are based on assumptions and speculations, such as the client obviously hasn't moved on, or why are they asking me such a self-restrictive fortune-telling question? I can teach them how to do better...

When one tarot reader complained about clients requesting several readings from various readers about the same issue, it sounded like that client almost committed a criminal offence.

Of course the reader refused to do the reading, and I will probably get shot by the tarot ethics police when I admit that I have no problem submitting my reading when asked and getting paid for it, too.

Why? I hear you ask. Well, because every client has the right to spend their money on what they want. They can invest it in a huge DVD collection, or they can ask several readers for advice on how to handle and deal with a situation.

Everyone is entitled to second opinions, which doesn't necessarily mean that they feed a habit or live in denial. And being in denial is nothing to feel ashamed or bad about. Denial is often part of the grieving process.

If I hadn't asked another doctor for a second opinion many years ago, I would have been dead today.

When you need help resolving an issue, you may ask several people for their advice. In the end, you evaluate and make up your own mind. What's wrong with that?

Not every client in this position is a tarot junkie.

The antidote to being judgmental and presumptuous is unconditional open-mindedness and acknowledgement that anything is possible. Avoid generalisation. Treat each client as an individual with their own unique issues.

2. Being a copy cat

When you are in awe of fellow tarot readers' fabulous websites and blogs, it can be tempting to emulate them and inadvertently ending up being a bit of a clone.

How many unboxing videos are there on YouTube now? Who has time to watch them all? Are you sure you want to spend / waste time adding to that pile?

How many thousands of websites are out there offering tarot readings? How is yours standing out to get noticed? It doesn't help to copy another website's colour scheme or stock photos.

It's even worse copying their products or services, such as courses and ebooks.

Last year I noticed that a big name in the tarot business had copied the concept of my Tarot Moon Journal, which I first published in 2012.

My creation was given a different title and a once-over in corporate colours, but I know mine is the original and best, like all original ideas usually are.

The antidote to being a copy cat is to find your own style, your true and authentic voice and create unique offerings with your personal touch.

3. Following the Tarot herd

• you don't need to have a huge tarot deck collection
• you don't need to join the latest social media platform, because other tarot readers do
• you don't need to condemn a fellow tarot reader solely based on accusations from another tarot reader. Tarot readers can be highly strung at times. Best to avoid this kind of drama - and judgement! Be fair and kind rather than part of a tarot mob
• only because one reader claims that they don't read reversals doesn't mean you shouldn't either. Whatever works best for you really counts.
• contrary to popular opinion, you can still use the Tarot for fortune-telling, if that's what you want to do
• you don't need to be constantly on social media. Switch off to think for yourself and generate your best ideas
• you don't need tarot certification
• you don't need to bombard the world with masses of tarot deck reviews, complicated spreads and tarotscopes. Instead, why not create a Best of... list linking to your favourites you found on other people's blogs? Better than rehashing what is already out there.
• you don't need to call yourself a healer only because it seems like the new buzz job title for tarot readers. I prefer healing assistant, which reflects my Hermit personality 😄
• not all third party readings are equal. Some of them are okay to do, others are not. Avoid putting them all into one bucket. Consider each one carefully and see how far you want to go with it.

The antidote to following the tarot herd is critical thinking, discernment and realising that less is more. Take a step back, observe and evaluate without worrying about your peers' acceptance or rejection. It's the age-old dilemma of fitting in versus standing out.

Deep down you are wise, clever and intelligent enough to avoid these three mistakes as a Tarot reader once you put your mind to it.

Yes, I have made some of the mistakes listed here, learned my lessons and began to focus on my own imagination, new interests and experiences outside the tarot world that have inspired me to create the crazy cosmic enlightening stuff on offer here on my website.

What about you?

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Why You Should Answer the Same Question Again

Tarot of Quotes

Quite a while ago, I came across a discussion in an online tarot forum about clients asking the same question again and again, especially with regards to relationship issues such as breakups.

Many tarot readers were adamant that they refuse such repeat requests, as the client has apparently "not moved on yet".

I didn't want to get into an argument, so I refrained from admitting that I was totally fine with that.

The simple reason is that I don't assume anything, when I get a reading request.

Relationships can be full of drama, and I trust that my readings will reflect these issues and make the client aware.

Relationships can be on and off. People meet, get together, split up, get back together again... and this can carry on for a while.

Yes, you may not think this is healthy, but it is not down to us to pass judgement and then refuse to help someone, who needs guidance.

Energies around the querent change despite the same question being asked, and this will usually be picked up by the cards you draw.

You may be answering the same question differently every time, even if there are just a few adjustments.

Usually after the third time of asking the same question, I offer the client a quick phone consultation to establish what is going on in their life.

These conversations have always revealed the bigger picture of their situation and also how accurate my readings had been in the past relating to the issue.

Emotional turmoil can take some time to come to terms with. In that situation the querent may need reassurance, encouragement, a new insight or perspective.

The last thing I want to do is take the moral high ground and turn them away for asking the same question yet again. I see it as my job to support them with compassion and an open mind.

Is he/she coming back to me? 

Sometimes they do!

Life is not black and white.

We cannot expect love to follow a straight forward pattern or even make it so, because it is not always straight forward.

We cannot base our answers solely on our experiences or that of people we know. This is where we can get it badly wrong as professional readers, if we are not careful.

Only because my friend got back together with her husband after a two-year separation, that doesn't mean everyone else will, or nobody else will ever get back together with their ex.

If they made the right decision is a different matter.

What counts is how you answer the question. How much you empower your client.

For some it is hard to move on, for others there is still unfinished business. 

And then there are those, who are being played with, who are confused and try to make sense of an ongoing saga.

They need someone, who can see the bigger picture from far, far away. 

Someone, who patiently answers their repeat questions, knowing that at one point it will create a positive shift in the client's mind.

It is all down to your judgement without prejudice to make the right decision when faced with repeat questions.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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22 Signs You Are A Professional Tarot Reader

There are many tarot readers out there advertising and charging for their services, but are they true professionals?

If you are thinking of starting your own tarot business, you can use this checklist based on the Major Arcana to find out what it takes to be a professional tarot reader:

0. The Fool

You never assume anything and treat each reading like a blank sheet of paper. You know nothing about your client, looks can be deceiving, and you are open to all possibilities.

1. The Magician

Before you carry out the reading, you communicate clearly with your client about how much you charge and the type of reading you provide.

2. The High Priestess

When interpreting the cards, you trust your intuition. You listen carefully to what your client has to say and observe body language. You may even have had some formal training in counselling.

3. The Empress

You nurture your clients by making them feel comfortable and giving them your full attention and compassion.

4. The Emperor

You are clear about your boundaries and stay in control of the reading. You are not pressured into answering questions you feel uncomfortable about, e.g. financial advice, pregnancy, medical conditions etc.

5. The Hierophant

Rather than being set in your ways, you are open to learning more and enhance your skills. You may be familiar with the cards, but there is always something new to discover. You enjoy using different decks, read new books and articles on Tarot to avoid stagnation.

6. The Lovers

You strive to encourage your clients to make their own choices based on love and knowledge.

7. The Chariot

Difficult readings can be a challenge, but you persevere and do the best you can. Most of the time you will succeed. Occasionally, you will need to bow out gracefully. Learn from it and move on.

8. Strength

You empower your clients with gentle guidance and kindness.

9. The Hermit

You take regular breaks to renew your energy and declutter your mind. Never do readings when pre-occupied with your own personal issues, and keep all information shared by your client as strictly confidential.

10. The Wheel of Fortune

You remind your client that nothing is set in stone, and luck can change at any moment, especially when "big" questions are asked, such as "Will I ever find my soulmate / twin flame, get married and have children?"

11. Justice

Make sure you are "legal". Register with the tax office as self-employed and arrange public liability insurance cover, if you work in public places or offer readings at your home. It is also useful to list some basic Terms & Conditions that cover issues such as refunds, cancellations etc.

12. The Hanged Man

You offer your clients different perspectives on their issue, so they can move forward rather than live in denial or ignorance.

13. Death

When this card comes up in a reading, you won't be telling your client that s/he (or a loved one) is about to die.

14. Temperance

You aim to offer readings that are healing, based on a balanced mix of offering choices, illuminating what is hidden, highlighting opportunities and exploring future possibilities.

15. The Devil

You avoid being tempted to manipulate your client into making decisions or choices you think are right for them.

16. The Tower

Rather than letting negative feedback destroy your confidence and trust in your abilities, you use it to learn and grow. Be objective: was the client ready for your message? Did they resist change? Or were you trying to dazzle them with some dubious statements or predictions you "saw" in the cards?

17. The Star

Your highest intention is to give hope and offer inspiration to your clients even at the darkest of times. Occasionally, you will encounter sad and tragic stories, and you will have to draw on your innate ability to be a guiding light towards healing, renewal and a new purpose.

18. The Moon

You help your clients face and overcome their insecurities and fears.

19. The Sun

You aim to raise your client's confidence and optimism.

20. Judgement

Never judge your client or people that come up in a reading. Remember you only hear one side of the story.

21. The World

You have come a long way, have found your niche and established a reputation. But you also know it is time to expand your horizons and take your skills and experience to the next level. 

New networks, ideas and projects will offer you new opportunities for growth and fulfilment.

⭐Where are you on your journey? I'd love to hear from you.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

The Magical Ingredients of a Tarot Email Reading

As a professional tarot reader I have written nearly a thousand email readings, and as a Mentor for TABI have worked with many readers to help them hone their email reading skills.

I think I've seen it all: the good, the bad and the ugly.

Writing a quality tarot email reading sounds easy, but it does require some special ingredients to make it worth the money you wish to charge.

If you are an aspiring tarot professional, here are some tips on which magical ingredients you need to add to make your readings stand out from the amateurs:

1. The Essence of a Reading

The three essential components of an email reading are encouragement, reassurance and inspiration.

When you write up your reading, ask yourself the following questions:

• Have I encouraged the client to think for themselves, face and overcome their fears or take action?
• Have I reassured the client without giving false hope? Have I aimed to boost their confidence?
• Have I inspired the client to embrace change, to move forward and to take responsibility for their lives?

2. Positivity

Being positive doesn't mean avoiding reality or the truth. If a relationship is over, it's over.

But even bad news can be conveyed with a sense of hope and optimism. Talk about the new beginnings and opportunities ahead. 

Offer ideas on how the client can regain some control and navigate uncertain times.

Always end a reading about a painful issue on an upbeat note.

3. Keep it simple

How often have I seen über-long, confusing sentences, irrelevant card descriptions and repeating messages?

Yes, we're talking sentence structure and occasionally losing the plot. Nobody wants to read Ulysses-style sentences, but when you are in the flow of writing the reading, it can easily happen.

For clarity's sake, less is often more. Avoid duplications and unnecessary waffle.

Ask yourself:

• Have I made my point clearly and succinctly?
• Have I answered the querent's question or been too vague?
• Is the information easy to understand?

4. Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation

For some tarot readers spelling has proven to be a major hurdle in delivering professional email readings. This also applies to grammar and punctuation.

If you have issues with this, you will need to brush up your writing skills seriously. Nothing is worse than charging for a reading riddled with typos, over-usage of apostrophes and grammatical errors.

5. Compassion, Empathy and Objectivity

Tarot readers are by nature sensitive souls. When a client contacts me for a reading, I can often sense the turmoil going on when reading their question, and I wish I could give them a proper big hug.

But it is important for a professional reader to combine compassion and empathy with objectivity and a certain level of detachment.

On behalf of the client, you are looking at the bigger picture and connecting the dots without judgement and without dragging your own personal issues into the reading.

Make sure the reading is about the client and not about you.

Many years ago, a well-meaning tarot reader wrote in a reading "My mother always used to say to me..." 

Trust me, this is inappropriate, and your querent doesn't want to know what your mother said.

Don't include your personal experience in a professional reading, even when you sympathize or even identify with the querent.

To sum it all up, writing a professional tarot email reading with a magical touch isn't as easy as it first seems. It's a skill that needs to be developed.

That doesn't mean I'm infallible. Far from it. Over the years, my readings have evolved, and yes, the odd typos and grammar howlers sneaked in on some occasions.

And with hindsight I felt some readings weren't good enough in some way. That's because I'm human and not a Tarot app 😉

What's important though is to put the effort in to add all those magical ingredients to your readings to make them the best they can be for your clients. 

This way you build your reputation as a truly professional reader.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Third Party Readings - Asking The Tarot About Someone Else

One of those ethical dilemmas tarot readers have to grapple with are third party readings.

There are different kinds of third party readings; some are subtle mainly found in relationship readings, others are more blatant, where the question doesn't relate to the person requesting the reading at all.

One of those blatant third party questions I once got was How is my sister, and is her husband treating her well?

The lady, who asked was from the Asian community, and although I can only guess why she asked about her sister, it may have related to an arranged marriage.

I can completely sympathise with the client. Of course she wants to know how her sister is and if she's okay, but it's difficult to connect with third parties in a reading. 

Any attempt often results in confusing, unclear or even wrong messages from the Tarot.

Still, who wouldn't want to put the client's mind at rest, reassuring her that all is well and her sister is happy.

But then I'd be guessing, at worst lying (what should I say, if I drew the Tower, Death or any other such card?).

Whatever I'd say about her sister couldn't be validated, whereas a reading for the querent directly can be. 

That's another reason why third party readings such as this example are risky and should be avoided.

Most questions tarot readers get asked are about love and relationships.

Will he come back to me?

How does he feel about me?

What are his long-term intentions?

Is he cheating on me? 

are all questions focusing on someone other than the client, yet when it comes to a relationship it takes two to make it work (or not).

How many relationship spreads include positions such as What person A brings to the relationship / what person B brings to the relationship (and person B not being present during the reading).

Person B's strengths, weaknesses and whatnot are analysed and dissected in a reading, while that person is absent. 

It's very much talking behind someone's back, judging them and making choices about the relationship without them, all based on a reading.

In my time as a professional tarot reader I have noticed that questions about other people, especially in relationship readings, are deep down about the client.

When we examine in a reading what the other person is bringing to the relationship, I always point out that the answer is likely to be the perception of the querent.

For example, the Hanged Man is drawn in that position. 

Rather than saying it seems like your boyfriend doesn't want to commit or wants to take your relationship further, I'd ask do you feel your relationship isn't going anywhere?, Are there circumstances that prevent you from moving forward together?

Here you can see the difference between a third party (first answer) and a client-focused (second answer) reading. 

The latter can be validated by client and offers more scope to explore the bigger picture.

And yet, we still take the other person into account by looking at the relationship as a whole but from the client's perspective.

Whereas blatant third party readings should be avoided, relationship readings that take into account both parties (where one of them is absent) can be explored by focusing on the feelings and perceptions of the client in relation to their partner.

This way we don't guess the other person's intentions, and perhaps we can also help the client figure out for themselves how the other person is feeling.

How do you feel about third party readings? How do you answer them? Have you been using relationship spreads that include questions about the other - absent - person? 

I'd love to hear from you💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Do You Need Tarot Qualifications?

There have been many discussions about "certification" in the tarot community.

Some readers feel that an official looking tarot qualification in form of a pretty certificate reflects their knowledge and skills and makes them look more professional.

Other readers don't see it necessary to pay a lot of money for a "qualification" that no client is particularly interested in.

Here are my thoughts on this:

1. A certificate doesn't tell anyone how good you are as a reader.

2. But it can be a great confidence booster giving you a sense of achievement.

3. You may have gained a lot of theoretical knowledge by having completed an expensive long-term tarot course, but applying it is a different matter.

4. It's practical experience that will help you grow and develop as a reader.

5. Reading the Tarot for clients isn't just about Tarot; you also need people skills.

Consider getting a qualification in counselling or coaching rather than trying to obtain an official looking tarot certificate. 

6. Some knowledge in psychology is also useful. Get an overview either by reading books, such as Understand Psychology, and again learn more by enrolling on courses, if this topic intrigues you.

7. It isn't necessary to have a tarot qualification as the industry isn't regulated in this way.

8. Instead, join a tarot organisation that offers training and professional development including guidelines on tarot ethics. This is also the place, where you can meet and network with fellow tarot enthusiasts for help and advice. Check out TABI.

9. When choosing a certified tarot course, make sure that content is focused on practice rather than an overload of theory and elaborate jargon.

10. It's not an official tarot certificate that endorses you; it's how you engage with people and also related work, interests and knowledge that add to your qualification as a reader.

Perhaps you have worked in a medical / helping profession or teaching capacity.

 You may have extensive knowledge on crystals, herbs, reiki, healing, angels and/or astrology, which you can combine with Tarot, adding to the value of your readings.

11. Ongoing training and study is also a vital part of your qualification, but an official certificate isn't always necessary. 

Consider participating in self-study groups or work with a mentor on a 1-2-1 basis, both of which will contribute to your true skills as a reader.

12. A certificate (or even a diploma!) doesn't mean you can handle calls on a psychic phone line. Any theory won't save you from having to learn the hard way. Instead, keep on practicing.

13. Still wanting to frame a pretty tarot certificate? No need to spend a fortune; TABI offers courses and endorsement in return for a small annual membership fee.

14. While official tarot qualifications may indicate a certain level of knowledge, they are no guarantee to draw in clients, if you want to make a living as a tarot reader.

Don't be tempted to choose a tarot course only because it offers certification. Contents and quality of its delivery is more important.

Last but not least, before you rush out to become a "qualified" tarot reader, remind yourself what first drew you to the Tarot. Was it

• the mystery, magic and wonder?
• the forbidden with that connection to witchcraft and the occult?
• the unknown and exploration of the unexplained?

How can you possibly package all that up into a sanitised tarot "certificate"? 

What next? Tarot readings that comply with Din ISO 9001 quality control? 

Will the title "Grandmaster of Tarot" not create unrealistic expectations?

What do clients, who come for readings, really want? That you can present a certificate, or perhaps they would prefer to think you have some kind of psychic gift?

What are your thoughts on tarot qualifications? I'd love to hear from you💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Making a Living as a Tarot Reader

When I started my Tarot business in 2006, I was terribly naive and ignorant. Nevertheless, in typical Fool-fashion I pursued my dream without knowledge, planning and foresight.

Shortly after my launch, a sudden health scare with a traumatic stint in hospital followed by a scary operation six months later didn't help either.

But I had to keep going, because I couldn't afford to wait for some bureaucrat to create a suitable job for me (one that allowed me to work flexible hours AND was intellectually stimulating, too).

So, here I am, seven years later, still alive to tell the tale. 

It has been a roller coaster ride, and today I am in a position that allows me to make a modest living from doing what I love.

"Modest" is a good description of my income; after ten years of working in a stressful but lucrative corporate world, starting my own business as a tarot reader meant down-shifting, to put it mildly.

What have I learned along the way?

1. Be authentic

Do it your own way. Don't compare yourself with others or imitate them; find your own voice and style. 

Create your own niche. Offer something different and unique, i.e. offer your feelings, opinions and true personality. 

Find new ways of expressing your knowledge.

2. Be generous

Share your knowledge freely on your website. The more you share for free, the more your content is shared and the number of your readers grows. 

You will also increase sales of the products you do charge money for, because your readers have learned more about you and what you can offer.

3. Network

Don't try this all on your own. Connect with like-minded folk, make friends, support others in their ventures, and you will be supported in return. 

I have noticed a few people online, who didn't make it, because they failed to maintain a support network that reached well beyond the limited tarot community.

 Spread your wings. Collaborate. Don't ignore people, who support you.

4. There is no competition

I don't see my fellow tarot readers as competitors. Just like lawyers, accountants, hairdressers etc, there is plenty of opportunities for all of us. 

We are all unique, offering different approaches and services, and clients should have a healthy choice when they are looking for tarot guidance or mentoring.

I don't hesitate to recommend fellow tarot readers, whose work I admire and respect. It adds to my reputation, and I admit that I learn from them, too! 

5. Evolve

I started off with a website created in MS Publisher and now run four websites/blogs using WordPress and Blogger. 

I began with Tarot and now incorporate astrology, spirituality, positive and conscious living, self-development... the whole shebang.

I've created eCourses and eBooks, and will be creating more. It's important not to stand still but to grow and develop your business. 

Learn from your mistakes and ditch what doesn't work for you, so you can concentrate on implementing new ideas that do.

6. Be honest

Don't hype; don't make promises. A tarot reading isn't a miracle cure or solves a problem from one minute to the next. 

Learning the Tarot takes perseverance and commitment. Clients can have unrealistic expectations; make sure you don't feed them with exaggerated claims.

7. Get help

Don't wait too long for professional business coaching if you get stuck. It can save your business and is worth the money. Coaching has helped me double my income.

No, I'm not earning a six-figure sum, but paying my monthly bills has become a little more comfortable. And I also have a clear vision about how I can develop my business further.

8. Declutter

Applying the Zen philosophy to your business (and indeed life!) can accelerate your creativity, productivity and efficiency. 

I used to have over 200 emails in my inbox (urgh!), which I have now cut down to 10 (ideally should be ZERO at the end of the day).

My workspace is clutter-free, and important paperwork filed rather than floating around randomly. 

Keep your mind clutter-free by making notes of your ideas and to-dos; this way you don't try so hard to remember the important bits. 

I just love my A4 task notebook! Remember, your surroundings can reflect your state of mind.

9. Take time out

When you are enthusiastic about your business and love what you do, it's easy to work every day for many hours including the weekend. 

It often doesn't feel like work at all, but it is important to switch off on a regular basis. 

Set times for breaks and stick to them. This will help you find new inspiration and recharge your batteries too. 

After all, you don't want to run out of steam or suffer burn-out.

10. Limit your time on the internet

If you are marketing your business online, then you can take advantage of automated services, which help you spend your time on the internet more efficiently. I use hootsuite.com to schedule my social media marketing 24/7.

It has significantly reduced my time spent on repetitive tasks, and it generated new business too, because I could run my marketing campaigns at times when I was actually asleep.

I don't hang out on Facebook either; only occasional updates. I prefer to be busy creating, research new ideas and just post status updates I feel are really important.

A few months ago I started my new website Tarot for Business, on which I share knowledge and experience about how to combine Tarot and spirituality with creating a fulfilling working life.

In the meantime, my journey is still continuing and evolving, and I'd love to hear about yours💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Why I no longer rephrase my Clients' Questions

As a professional tarot reader I have been asked hundreds of questions, such as Is my husband cheating on me?, Will I ever find love again?, Am I pregnant?, When will I get a new job?, Does he love me? etc...

At first glance it's easy to roll your eyes at some of the questions, but I have learned over the years to take these questions seriously and treat them with respect.

 After all they reflect my client's deepest concern/worry/fear/mystery, and it is the main purpose of my work to offer the best and clearest answer I can possibly give.

When I started learning the Tarot many years ago, I was taught to ask the "right" questions, and there is no doubt that they do invite insightful and enlightening readings in return.

However, I cannot assume that my clients have had a crash course in tarot and question phrasing before they contact me for a reading.

Now it no longer feels right for me to make changes to questions, dilute them, make them fit or even make them more vague for the following reasons:

• Rephrasing a question is judgemental. It implies the client is judged as being stupid, silly, careless, dim, ridiculous...etc. Surely he/she could have thought of a more "empowering" or "intelligent" question to ask? Tut tuut...
• Rephrasing a question is condescending and suggests a hint of arrogance. Tarot readers are NOT superior to their clients, and they shouldn't give that impression by lecturing them about better choice of words.
• Rephrasing a question is rude. Bear in mind that some clients will feel offended. Do your best to avoid that.
• Rephrasing a question can knock a client's confidence. They have taken the courage to ask you something that plays on their mind, troubles them, and all they get in return is some "friendly advice" on how to ask the right question. Ouch.

Can you remember your school days, when your teacher said Don't be afraid to ask. It doesn't matter if you think it's a stupid question. Just ask. You were encouraged to open up without worrying about being ridiculed, and this is my philosophy when it comes to tarot questions my clients ask me.

But...

what if you feel uncomfortable answering certain questions?

It's perfectly okay to say no, and I'm perfectly fine with admitting that my abilities are limited: 

I'm not a qualified doctor, lawyer or financial adviser, and I cannot connect with dead people.

If I feel uncomfortable with a question, I am honest and let the client know I cannot answer it. 

It's the extreme ones like "pregnancy", which I have to decline, but thankfully they come up very rarely.

My experience over the years has also taught me that many questions I would have dismissed immediately in the past were actually quite interesting on second glance and lent themselves to deeper exploration, just like the famous Will I ever find love again?

It is always worthwhile giving any question careful consideration and regard it as an inspirational challenge to answer it with humility, grace and integrity for the highest good of the person, who is asking. 

So much better than slapping the client in the face with a rephrase.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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