The 7 Biggest Myths About Tarot – And Why They’re Wrong

Tarot has been around for centuries, but in all that time, myths, misconceptions, and downright strange ideas have grown up around it. Some people see it as a mystical doorway to hidden knowledge, while others dismiss it as nothing more than a parlour trick. And then there are those who believe it’s downright dangerous.

After years of reading Tarot for people from all walks of life, I’ve heard it all – the wild, the wonderful, and the completely ridiculous. So, let’s dive into seven of the biggest myths about Tarot and separate fact from fiction.


1. Tarot is Evil and Connected to Dark Forces

Let’s start with the big one. Some people genuinely believe that Tarot is tied to the occult, demons, or even the devil himself. This idea has been around for centuries, fuelled by Hollywood horror films, religious fears, and a general misunderstanding of what Tarot actually is.

The truth? Tarot is a tool. It’s a deck of 78 illustrated cards, rich in symbolism, that help readers interpret situations, energies, and potential outcomes. There’s nothing inherently evil about pieces of printed card. A Tarot reading isn’t about summoning spirits or making deals with dark forces – it’s about guidance, intuition, and perspective.

That being said, if you go into a reading expecting horror-movie-style drama, your own fears might colour the experience. But trust me, no demons are waiting to jump out of the deck.


2. You Must Be Gifted Your First Tarot Deck

This is one of the most common superstitions in the Tarot world. The idea is that you should never buy your own deck – it must be gifted to you, or else it won’t work properly.

Where did this come from? No one really knows, but it’s likely an old tradition that got taken too literally. While receiving a deck as a gift is lovely, it’s not necessary.

If you’re drawn to Tarot, buy the deck that calls to you. You don’t need to wait around for someone else to pick one for you.


3. The Death Card Means You’re Going to Die

Ah, the Death card – the one that always gets an over-the-top reaction in films and TV shows. Pull the Death card, and suddenly the music turns ominous, the camera zooms in dramatically, and someone gasps in horror.

In reality? The Death card is one of the most positive and transformative cards in the deck. It rarely means actual physical death. Instead, it symbolises endings, transitions, and new beginnings. It’s about letting go of the old to make way for the new – a job change, the end of a toxic relationship, a major shift in mindset.

So, unless you’re in a horror movie, don’t panic if the Death card shows up in your reading. It’s far more about personal growth than doom and gloom.


4. Tarot Readings Predict the Future with 100% Accuracy

This is a big one. Many people come to a Tarot reading expecting crystal-clear predictions about their future, down to the exact time and place events will happen. They want to know when they’ll meet their soulmate, get a new job, or win the lottery.

But Tarot isn’t about fixed destinies. It shows possibilities, patterns, and potential outcomes based on the energy of the moment. Your choices, actions, and mindset can all influence the direction your life takes.

Think of Tarot as a weather forecast – it gives you insight into what’s likely to come, but ultimately, you decide whether to take an umbrella or walk into the storm.


5. Only ‘Special’ People Can Read Tarot

There’s a belief that only those with psychic abilities, spiritual gifts, or a special connection to the universe can read Tarot. Some people even think that if you’re not naturally intuitive, the cards won’t work for you.

The truth? Anyone can learn to read Tarot. Like any skill, it takes time, practice, and study, but you don’t have to be born with mystical powers. Some readers rely heavily on intuition, while others take a more analytical approach, studying the symbolism and meanings of the cards.

If you’re interested in Tarot, pick up a deck, start learning, and trust yourself. The magic comes from your interpretation and connection to the cards – not some hidden supernatural gift.


6. Tarot Tells You What You Want to Hear

Some sceptics dismiss Tarot as nothing more than feel-good fortune-telling, saying that readers just tell people what they want to hear. While there are certainly some people out there who sugarcoat their readings, a good Tarot reader won’t shy away from the truth.

Tarot can deliver tough messages. It can highlight obstacles, warn about toxic relationships, and show you where you might be holding yourself back. But it doesn’t do this to scare you – it does it to help you grow.

A Tarot reading isn’t about hearing what you want to hear; it’s about hearing what you need to hear. The real question is, are you ready to listen?


7. Tarot Readers Can Read Your Mind

This is one of the more amusing myths I’ve encountered. Some people sit down for a reading and expect me to immediately know everything about them – their past, their secrets, their deepest fears. Others worry that I might ‘see’ something in the cards they don’t want revealed.

Let me be clear: Tarot readers are not mind-readers. We don’t have instant access to all your thoughts and memories. What we do is interpret the cards, read the energy, and use our intuition to provide insights.

If a reader picks up on something personal, it’s not because they’re spying into your soul – it’s because the cards are reflecting the themes, challenges, or emotions you’re currently experiencing. And if you don’t want to discuss something? That’s absolutely your choice.


Final Thoughts

Tarot is a fascinating, powerful tool for self-reflection and guidance, but like anything mysterious, it has attracted its fair share of myths. Whether you’re a believer, a sceptic, or somewhere in between, the best way to understand Tarot is to experience it for yourself.

And if you’re curious, why not book a Tarot reading or host a Tarot Party for your next event? Whether it’s a private reading, a wedding, or a corporate function, Tarot can bring insight, entertainment, and a little bit of magic. Get in touch to find out more!

The Dark Side of Tarot: Why I Refuse to Use Fear as a Marketing Tactic

As a professional tarot card reader and fortune teller based in Greater Manchester, I cherish the moment when a client sits down with me, excited and curious about the insights that the cards may reveal. Each reading is a journey, a chance to explore possibilities, gain clarity, and empower individuals to navigate their lives with confidence. However, I’ve noticed a troubling trend within our community – the practice of instilling fear in clients through sensationalistic warnings of dark or ominous futures. Today, I want to take a firm stand against this phenomenon and explain why it runs counter to the very essence of what tarot represents.

The Illusion of Control through Fear

Dark and scary image of a frightened young woman hearing bad news from a tarot card reader

When individuals seek out tarot readings, they typically desire guidance and understanding. They may be facing uncertainties, seeking reassurance, or even just looking for a little inspiration in their lives. Yet, some readers have found a dubious way to play on these natural anxieties by claiming they see “dark” energies or impending doom lurking in their future. This not only undermines the true purpose of tarot – which is to provide insight and empowerment – but also manipulates the emotional state of clients for personal gain.

Imagine walking into a reading feeling vulnerable and apprehensive, only to be met with ominous predictions. It’s not just disheartening; it’s emotionally damaging. I’ve heard of clients leave readings shaken and anxious, worried about things that may never come to fruition, all because they were told a fabricated horror story. This is nothing more than fearmongering masquerading as a service, and it has no place in a profession that should be built on support and understanding.

The Responsibility of a Reader

As tarot readers, we hold a profound responsibility. Our role is to guide, not to frighten; to empower, not to disillusion. The cards are a tool for reflection and insight, and they should be used to help clients envision paths forward rather than drowning them in a sea of worry about what might happen. When a reader approaches a session with integrity, they open up a space where clients can genuinely explore their lives and choices without the overshadowing weight of fear.

The ethics of reading go beyond predicting the future. They involve uplifting clients and providing them with the tools to understand their circumstances better. My primary goal during a reading is to equip clients with knowledge and clarity so they can make informed decisions about their lives. I encourage positive change and self-awareness, rather than crippling them with fear of a grim destiny.

A Poor Marketing Strategy

A phenomenon to consider is the commercialization of fear. For some tarot readers, selling a narrative of risk or darkness may seem like a clever marketing tactic—drawing in clients who want to know if disaster is on the horizon. However, this is fundamentally flawed. Profit gained from distress is fleeting and does nothing to foster a loyal, healthy clientele. Why would anyone return for more insights if their first experience left them frightened and unsettled?

I believe that true marketing comes from satisfied clients, word of mouth, and authenticity. If I can help you navigate through your challenges and draw out your intrinsic strengths, that, in turn, will cultivate trust and foster connection. Genuine relationships built on understanding will always far surpass those built on sensationalism.

Embracing Positivity in Tarot

Ultimately, I’m a firm believer that the energy we put into our craft matters profoundly. Tarot is about possibilities, potentials, and growth. It encourages personal reflection, allowing clients to confront aspects of their lives they may wish to change or enhance. Rather than focusing on doom and gloom, I choose to help individuals discover their spirit, uncover their choices, and inspire them to create their destiny.

So the next time you visit a tarot card reader, remember that you deserve a reading that uplifts and encourages – one that seeks to illuminate the path ahead rather than cast shadows of despair.

A young lady smiling as she has her fortune told by an ethical and positive Tarot Card Reader in Manchester

As we move forward, let’s spread the message that tarot is a tool for empowerment, not fear. Let’s honour its true purpose and nurture a community defined by positivity, clarity, and genuine support. If you find yourself grappling with any negative experiences, remember: the cards can offer a treasure trove of insights, but the energy you choose to bring to the reading should always be one of hope and empowerment.

In the world of tarot, hope should always outshine fear.

The Ethics of Tarot Reading: What Every Client Should Know

When it comes to tarot reading, the allure of peering into the future or gaining insight into personal dilemmas is a powerful draw. But with that power comes a responsibility that all tarot readers must uphold. At Tarot Party, we understand that when you seek a reading, you’re not just looking for answers; you’re placing your trust in us. That’s why we’re committed to practicing tarot reading with the highest ethical standards, ensuring your experience is both enlightening and respectful.

An image of two tarot cards; One with a heart shaped padlock on, the other with a key. These represent the ethics of being a good Tarot Card Reader in Greater Manchester. The background is a vibrant orange sunburst, to show energy and positivity.

Confidentiality: Your Secrets Stay with Us

One of the most important aspects of an ethical tarot reading is confidentiality. At Tarot Party, we understand that the questions you bring to a tarot reading are deeply personal. Whether you’re asking about love, career, or your life’s purpose, you can trust that your reading is completely private. Our tarot readers are trained to maintain the confidentiality of every client, whether you’re joining us at one of our events in Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, or elsewhere.

Confidentiality is not just about keeping your secrets—it’s about creating a safe space where you feel comfortable exploring whatever is on your mind. This assurance allows you to be open and honest during your reading, which in turn leads to more accurate and meaningful insights from the tarot cards.

Responsibility: The Power of the Cards, Used Wisely

Tarot cards have been used for centuries as tools for reflection and guidance, but with that power comes the responsibility to use them wisely. At Tarot Party, we believe that tarot readings should be empowering, not frightening. Our readers are committed to delivering messages with care, ensuring that the guidance provided is constructive and helpful, rather than alarming or distressing.

We also understand the importance of using tarot responsibly in terms of timing and context. For instance, while tarot can offer insight into difficult situations, it should never replace professional advice from doctors, lawyers, or financial advisors. Our readers at Tarot Party are mindful of this, and will always guide you to seek the appropriate professional help when necessary.

Honesty: Real Answers, Not Just What You Want to Hear

Honesty is at the core of ethical tarot reading. Our readers at Tarot Party are committed to delivering messages as they are presented by the cards, rather than just telling you what you might want to hear. This honesty is crucial for ensuring that the guidance you receive is genuine and helpful.

However, honesty doesn’t mean being blunt or insensitive. Our readers are skilled in delivering even the most difficult messages with compassion and care, ensuring that you leave the reading feeling informed and supported, rather than discouraged.

Integrity: The Foundation of Our Practice

Integrity is what sets Tarot Party apart from other tarot reading services. We pride ourselves on being transparent about our process and our intentions. When you book a reading with us, you can be confident that you’re receiving a service that is grounded in ethical practices. Our readers are not just skilled in interpreting the tarot cards; they are also committed to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

At Tarot Party, we believe that tarot reading is not just a mystical experience, but a partnership between reader and client. We work hard to ensure that this partnership is built on trust, respect, and integrity. Whether you’re attending one of our popular Cocktails & Tarot evenings in Rochdale or booking a private reading in Oldham, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.

Why Choose Tarot Party?

In a world where anyone can claim to be a psychic or tarot reader, it’s important to choose a service that values ethics as much as skill. At Tarot Party, we go above and beyond to ensure that every reading is conducted with the utmost care, respect, and professionalism. Our commitment to ethical tarot reading means that you can trust us to provide not just insight, but also a safe and supportive environment.

We invite you to experience the difference that ethical tarot reading can make. Join us at one of our events in Manchester, Oldham, or Rochdale, or book a private reading and see for yourself why Tarot Party is the trusted choice for those seeking genuine and responsible tarot guidance.

Book Your Reading Today

If you’re ready to explore the mysteries of the tarot in a safe and supportive setting, contact Tarot Party today. Whether you’re curious about what the future holds, seeking answers to a specific question, or just looking for a unique and fun experience, we’re here to help. With our commitment to confidentiality, responsibility, honesty, and integrity, you can be confident that you’re making the right choice for your tarot reading.