How to stop second-guessing your tarot intuition

Picture this: you lay out a tarot spread. The cards look extraordinary: The Lovers, Two of Cups, and Ace of Pentacles. Initially, you feel positive. But then…you start to wonder if you’re being too hopeful. Maybe you need a “clarifier card” just to make sure your initial vibes were legit. You pull The Devil reversed. Eep. That doesn’t look good, so you draw another…and another. But now you’re confused, so you decide to redo the question. Except the cards you picked this time are bummer city.

If you’ve ever gone through that hamster wheel of doubt, you know how maddening it can be. Many tarot readers, both beginners and seasoned shufflers, have struggled with overanalyzing their readings at one point or another. Unfortunately, this habit of second-guessing your tarot intuition can create unnecessary doubt – and ultimately block your sixth sense.

How do you know if you’re overthinking your tarot readings?

There are a couple of signs to look out for.

The first is the urge to pull clarifier cards. While there is nothing wrong with one, if you begin to draw one after the other, you’re muddying the works. Sometimes, folks do this when they don’t like the original message.

Constantly flipping through the guidebook is another sign that you’re in doubt mode. While the little white books can be helpful in a pinch, you don’t want to become overly dependent on them.

Asking the same question over and over is also a fast track to getting confusing results – which will only lead to more second-guessing.

Lastly, doubting your first impression is a big giveaway. Here’s the deal: your first instincts are often right on. If you immediately question that gut reaction, you’ll probably launch into overanalyzing the reading…or your feelings.

How to stop second-guessing your tarot intuition

First things first: trust that first impression. Whatever you feel right from the jump is important. Listen to those instincts, even if you don’t like what you’re seeing.

Write it down. I’m a huge fan of journaling. It makes you a better reader and helps develop your tarot intuition. I recommend writing down those first impressions – and then closing the book. Come back to it later. You might be delighted to see how right on those initial thoughts were.

Put a limit on clarifying cards. One at the most. Period. Any more than that, and you’re asking for overanalyzing trouble.

Finally, you’ll want to develop your own relationship with the cards. Rather than relying on the books or someone else’s interpretation, what do they say to you? Listen closely. You know.

xo

Theresa

Learn more great tarot tips in my book, Tarot: No Questions Asked – Mastering the Art of Intuitive Reading.

Psst…I’m teaching a class on Intermediate Tarot Techniques this fall. It’s online – and if you get your ticket before May 1st, you’ll save some dough!

© Theresa Reed | The Tarot Lady 2025

image from stock photography: Shutterstock

 

 

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