Brigit Esselmont's Blog, page 20
June 25, 2020
Why now is the right time to start an online tarot business (And how to do it)
Have you felt the nudge lately?
You know the one. When you’re deep in reflection, and it elbows you gently on the side, saying, “When are you going to abandon the grind and do what serves your soul’s purpose?”
Or, “I’m so tired of waking up for this 9-5 job when it doesn’t fill me with light.”
Let’s be honest, sometimes that nudge is more of a push, a flashing neon sign that blinks, “The time is NOW.”
For those of us in the Intuitive Arts (aka “psychic services”) — including Tarot reading, wellness coaching, intuitive healing, psychic readings, and more — the call to use our gifts is one we all too often silence…
…and for good reason.
Deciding to step out on your own and start your own business is a massive undertaking. But with more and more people looking online for spiritual guidance from all types of intuitive specialties, now is the absolute best time to consider making the change.
In fact, in 2009 Tarot went massively mainstream when Dolce & Gabbana used it as the inspiration behind a unique line of scents. And there was another spike in popularity when Post Malone named his new wine label after the 9 of Swords his “favorite Tarot card.”
As Tarot and other intuitive arts become more mainstream, people are shifting their view of the industry, making way for intuitives just like yourself to align your spiritual path with your career aspirations.
People Need Authentic, Heart-Based Intuitive Leadership Right Now
If you're struggling with whether or not now is the right time to start your Tarot business, ask yourself — if not now, when?
As more people are moving their lives online and searching for deeper spiritual and emotional connections with themselves and others, there's a real call to action for leaders in the Intuitive Arts to start taking up space online.
A recent market analysis by IBIS World showed that the industry surpassed $2 billion in revenue in 2018 alone. Two. Billion. Dollars.
The fact is the Intuitive Arts are only expected to grow. Over the past 8 years, people under the age of 25 have started exploring new spiritual practices and psychic services more than ever.
As this younger generation begins to search for spiritual enlightenment through holistic avenues and yearns for more authentic leadership, it's not surprising many of them are turning to spiritual thought leaders for guidance.
It's predicted that the industry will only continue to grow each year.
The need is there. The audience is waiting. What matters now is finding the confidence to align your career with your spiritual values.
With confidence in yourself and a roadmap in place, you could create a hugely successful business. But first, you have to take the leap.
Create A Soul-Aligned Business Plan
There are around 85,000 people working in the intuitive arts. The most successful spiritual entrepreneurs have one thing in common — a Soul-Aligned Business Plan.
A Soul-Aligned Business Plan is the first step to turning your business dream into a reality. It's similar to a business plan — only it's born from your soul's purpose, with the intention of building a spiritually aligned business that supports your life.
To get started, ask yourself these questions:
What does my ideal life look like? What kind of flexibility or opportunities do I wish I had in my current job?Who do I most want to help?How can I use my authentic self to serve others?What unique gifts do I have that I am excited to share with the world?
The answer to these questions can give you a vision of what your most spiritually aligned path looks like — and that's the foundation of your Soul-Aligned Business Plan.
When you know exactly what you want out of your career, the path is going to light up, and you'll understand what you need to do.
When I left HR all those years ago to pursue Biddy Tarot full time, it was scary, but I knew intuitively that taking that plunge would allow me to live from a place of authenticity and alignment, and having a plan in place gave me the confidence I needed to make that transition.
Reach Who You've Been Called To Serve
In the United States alone, the Psychic Services industry has grown 2% every year in the past five years, and 22% of adults surveyed met with a psychic or spiritual advisor in the past.
Those numbers only continue to grow. So, here's what you can be sure of— your client is out there waiting for your message.
If you've been toying with the idea of becoming an Intuitive Entrepreneur or Tarotpreneur, aligning your spiritual goals with your career path, and stepping into a more intention-driven life — the space is there for you to have a seat at the table.
Start by exploring your Soul-Aligned Business Plan and understanding who you are, what you want, and the special gifts you have to offer others. Once you tap into your unique leadership style, you can begin on our soul-aligned business path and create a career in harmony with your values and intentions.
The post Why now is the right time to start an online tarot business (And how to do it) appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
June 11, 2020
Biddy Tarot stands for social justice & Equality
When I started Biddy Tarot, I dreamed that it would grow to be an inclusive and diverse community where Tarot lovers from all walks of life could support, educate, and inspire each other.
With that thought in mind, I’ve spent the past few days reflecting on how to respond to the heartbreaking reality around racism in the United States, in my home country, Australia, and across the world. As the Black community challenges oppression and fights out against social injustice and the fundamental human right to a life free of mistreatment, racism, and inequality — I am dedicated to supporting and amplifying their voices.
At the same time, I recognize I have a lot to learn and understand around how to be a real pillar of support for the Black community and POC. I am committed to taking this time to listen and educate myself, so that I know how to take steps towards real change both within myself, my community, and the world.
This week, the team at Biddy Tarot will be amplifying Black voices in solidarity with their fight for justice. Instead of our usual Tarot content, we will be sharing resources, organizations, and voices within the Black community. Additionally, we are committed to continuing the work of lifting up the Black community and ensuring it is a consistent aspect of our work at Biddy Tarot moving forward.
This is a transformational time in our lives, and my hope is that it leads us to a more peaceful and loving world for everyone.
Love,
Brigit
Originally posted 20 June, 2020 on Instagram
The post Biddy Tarot stands for social justice & Equality appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
March 26, 2020
Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times
What we’re experiencing as a global community, as we deal with Coronavirus and its ripple effects, is huge.
As the situation continues to change and evolve at a rapid rate, it may feel unsettling and destabilizing, not knowing what will happen next and how it will affect what we have come to know as our normal way of life.
And as empaths and sensitive souls, we often feel heightened levels of stress and anxiety as we absorb the energies of others. We may not even realize how much we are taking on until it all starts to bubble over in a huge outpouring of emotion.
This is why, now more than ever, we really need to take care of ourselves (and each other) and stay connected with our Highest Good.
Here are three things I recommend:
Take short breaks throughout your day to close your eyes, take in a few deep breaths, and tune in to your inner wisdom. Notice any emotion that is coming up for you, and just observe it before letting it go.Be intentional when scrolling through social media, reading the news or browsing the internet. It is easy to get caught up in the drama, when really, maybe all you need is a quick update and then continue with your normal day.Use your Tarot cards to stay connected to your Higher Self and keep grounded in the present moment. If you’re feeling unsettled or anxious, take a moment to tune in and pull a Tarot card for guidance about what you’re feeling and why. Or, start your day with the question, “What message does my Higher Self have for me today?” and spend 5-10 minutes journaling your insights.
It is essential that we stay present and grounded, connect with our inner wisdom; and come together (in spirit) as a community to support one another.
Rather than dropping into fear and anxiety, this is our time to rise up and keep our spirits high – collectively.
That’s why at Biddy Tarot, it’s mostly ‘business as usual’.
Because our mission is to help everyday people to trust their inner wisdom, using Tarot as a guide. And right now, as we each deal with these uncertain times, trusting your inner wisdom and staying grounded is what is needed most.
Here’s what we’re doing at Biddy Tarot to help…
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing my favorite tips and strategies on social media to stay grounded and connected with your Higher SelfWe’re posting our favorite Tarot spreads on social media to help you release stress and anxietyWe’re starting the 5-Day Tarot Makeover Challenge on March 27 – a perfect way to refocus your energy on your own self-growth and developmentAnd soon, we’ll be opening the doors to the Biddy Tarot Certification Program
I know things are tough right now. I’m feeling it too. But I also know that we can – and we will – get through this. Just like the Star card follows the Tower, in the midst of chaos and destruction there is renewed hope and faith, and the new opportunities will shine through.
From the bottom of my heart, stay well. Here are some videos with tips and inspiration to navigate these challenging times
Staying Grounded and Being Intentional
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Biddy Tarot | BiddyTarot.com (@biddytarot) on Mar 16, 2020 at 6:02am PDT
Grounding in Nature
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Biddy Tarot | BiddyTarot.com (@biddytarot) on Mar 17, 2020 at 10:42am PDT
Managing stress Tarot Spread
Like so many of you, I am also feeling a bit out of sorts with all
that’s happening around the world. I've gotten messages from many of you who
are feeling this intense energy. It’s important for us to be as present and
intentional as possible. Tarot is a wonderful tool to access during uncertain
times and it can help guide you back to center. ⠀
I created this spread to help you explore what you are feeling and better manage any stress or intense emotions that you may be feeling.⠀
Managing Stress Tarot Spread
1. What is at the heart of my stress?
2. How can I better manage this stress?
3. Where can I better direct my energy?
4. What self loving action can I take now?
Take some time today, and create sacred space for yourself. Invite peace and healing into your life, your community, and the world. Share your spread with me on Instagram. Tag me @biddytarot to share your insights.
The post Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
February 13, 2020
Your Tarot-Inspired Guide to the Astrology of 2020 By Liz Worth
To encapsulate the energy of 2020 with just one word would be unfair.
This year holds so much capacity for change, acceleration, transformation, and courage.
And on the other side of those experiences, there can be a lot of intensity. As well as excitement.
The astrology of 2020 will have us all riding some interesting waves.
One chapter ends, and another starts to unfold with this year’s eclipses. The Cancer – Capricorn eclipse series that started in 2018 concludes in July, 2020, and we’ll begin to experience a different story with eclipses in Gemini and Sagittarius.
Mars and Venus are also ones to watch this year, as both go retrograde in 2020 in fire and air signs, respectively.
And Saturn leaves Capricorn and enters Aquarius.
There will be a lot of opportunity for new ideas, innovations, and creative inspiration in your life – but one of the reminders through it all will be that you can’t do everything at once.
Read on to learn more about these energies, and how tarot can help guide you throughout the year.
The Gemini – Sagittarius eclipse series
Since 2018, we’ve experienced an eclipse series in the cardinal signs of Cancer and Capricorn. In the elements of water and earth, respectively, these events have encouraged you to learn how to fill your own cup.
Work-life balance, emotional labour, and the cost of living an unfulfilled life are all themes that may have emerged as a result.
In 2020, a new eclipse series begins, this time in the mutable signs of Gemini and Sagittarius. We are moving into air and fire with this eclipse series, and the mutable energy of these signs highlights adaptability and flexibility.
Gemini and Sagittarius both honour knowledge and information. They are curious and love to learn.
This eclipse series will encourage you to open your mind to new perspectives, opinions, or schools of thought. Paradigms and mindsets are set to change here, individually and collectively.
Eclipse dates to watch are:
June 5, 2020: Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius
November 3, 2020: Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse in Gemini
December 14, 2020: New Moon and Solar Eclipse in Sagittarius
Solar eclipses always occur during a new moon, and lunar eclipses occur during a full moon. A solar eclipse can create outer change, while a lunar eclipse promotes inner growth.
Here’s a tarot spread to help you connect to these eclipses:
1. What is it time for me to learn?
2. What mindset am I growing out of?
3. What can I do to shift my perspective moving forward?
4. What will I be able to teach others as a result?
Saturn in Aquarius: 2020 and beyond
On March 21, 2020, Saturn leaves Capricorn and enters Aquarius for the first time since 1994.
Taskmaster Saturn helps you to learn commitment, boundaries, and responsibility. It can slow things down if you’re rushing and cutting corners, but it can also speed things up if you’re dragging your feet on an important task or process.
Saturn helps you to become disciplined, which is a tall order in today’s age of instant gratification and (supposed) overnight success stories.
In the sign of innovative Aquarius, Saturn can inspire new work in the realm of technology, community, and connectedness.
But 2020 may be too early to make a call on what will transpire with Saturn in Aquarius. Saturn goes retrograde every year; this year it will be retrograde from May 10 until September 29.
On July 1, Saturn will slip back into Capricorn where it will remain until December 17. That’s when it re-enters Aquarius and stays in this eccentric air sign until 2023.
Here’s a tarot spread to help you work with Saturn in 2020:
1. What lesson is wrapping for me this year?
2. How is my foundation becoming stronger as a result?
3. What new lesson will emerge when Saturn enters Aquarius?
4. How can I being to honour this work now?
Venus retrograde: May 13 – June 25, 2020
Venus, the planet of love, art and beauty, goes retrograde once every 18 months.
Venus retrogrades are times where you may feel a bit more tender than usual. She’s a personal planet that can influence your self-esteem and self-worth, love life, and your creative drive.
Do you need to worry? Not necessarily. Just be aware that Venus retrogrades can bring up periods of self-evaluation and may help you to see where your needs, standards, or desires have changed.
Which is important, because you are growing all the time, and what you liked, wanted or craved before might need an upgrade now.
Venus retrogrades are also times to check in with yourself, and your loved ones, to make sure you’re still understanding each other.
This year, Venus goes retrograde through the sign of Gemini.
Here’s a tarot spread to help you navigate this year’s Venus retrograde:
1. What desire is waiting to come to the surface?
2. How can I redefine pleasure?
3. What definition of happiness no longer serves me?
4. How can I develop more closeness in my relationships?
Mars retrograde: September 9 – November 13, 2020
Mars goes retrograde every two years, which says a lot about this planet! Mars rules action, ambition, and drive, after all, so it’s fitting that it doesn’t take much time off.
But Mars is due to go retrograde this year, from September 9 to November 13, which means that your ambition may need to take a backseat for a bit.
Retrogrades remind us that we can’t push forward all the time. It’s not always easy to ease up in this 24/7 world, though. This Mars retrograde may be particularly challenging for all of you go-getters out there, as it’s taking place in Mars’ home sign of Aries, a sign that doesn’t know how to stop.
Burnout and stress-related issues may come to a head if you’re not careful here. Watch how much you’re taking on at this time of year, and if life seems to be slowing down a bit, don’t fight it: This may be the universe’s way of telling you to tune into this natural pause.
Here’s a tarot spread to help you connect with this year’s Mars retrograde:
1. Where do I need to slow down?
2. How am I spreading myself too thin?
3. What can I do to recharge during this time?
4. How can I practice more patience with myself overall?
Use this astrological insight along with these Tarot spreads to really help you tune into the energies and make the most of them.
If you loved Liz's Tarot spreads and the idea of living aligned with the Astrology of the year, then you'll love the Biddy Tarot Planner. Manifest your best year yet through setting conscious intentions using the Tarot (and your intuition) as your guide. Available in digital or paperback, get your Biddy Tarot Planner today.
The post Your Tarot-Inspired Guide to the Astrology of 2020 By Liz Worth appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
2020 Mercury Retrograde Survival Guide by Liz Worth
Mercury has got to be one of the most popular planets, infamously known for being in Retrograde. Don’t worry, there’s no reason that you have to fear this transit. To help us understand and make the most out of Mercury Retrograde in 2020, our friend, Astrologer and Tarot reader, Liz Worth is sharing her expertise with us.
What is Mercury Retrograde?
Retrograde periods occur when planets appear to be moving backwards, at least from our vantage point here on Earth. According to NASA, planets typically move in a westward (prograde) motion. But when in retrograde motion, they seem to move eastward (retrograde) temporarily.
All of the planets have retrograde periods, some lasting for months at a time depending on the speed at which a planet travels. As a faster moving planet, Mercury has three to four retrograde periods a year, lasting about three weeks at a time.
Overall, Mercury has a cerebral energy that connects it to writing, conversation, technology, and our thinking. It’s the messenger planet of ideas, communication, and strategy. Mercury is the ruler of Gemini, which likes to talk, connect, socialize, and network. It also rules Virgo, a sign of efficiency and organization.
So, in keeping these themes in mind, it makes sense that things seem to go haywire during Mercury retrograde. Plans might fall through more often than usual. People are suddenly hard to get a hold of. Projects get stalled. Ideas dry up. Writer’s block sets in.
It seems like there are so many rules about what to do, and not to do, during these periods: Don’t sign any contracts unless you have to. Do triple-check every email you write. Don’t buy any new devices or book any travel.
It can be hard to know what to do with so much information out there.
The reality is that Mercury retrograde doesn’t mean catastrophe every time. There's been a lot of hype built up around Mercury retrograde periods as being inopportune times to make any major decisions, launch a product, or start a new project.
Be careful about getting superstitious about astrology, no matter what kind of transit we’re looking at. Travel delays, misunderstandings, and scheduling snafus happen all the time, no matter what Mercury is up to. You might not always be able to postpone a major decision.
Here’s how you can navigate this year’s Mercury retrogrades with Tarot:
Reflect on the 2019 Retrogrades
Take a moment and think back to 2019:
How did last year’s Mercury retrogrades impact you in March, July and October?
In 2019, Mercury retrograded through the water signs of Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio. I want you to think back to what surfaced last year because in 2020, Mercury is going to take you on a similar journey.
Yup, that’s right: Mercury is going to be retrograde through Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio again this year. Does it mean 2020 has to be a repeat of 2019? No way: Every year is different, and there are always other scenarios at play.
But if you had anything notable arise last year, or learned something during those retrogrades, then those experiences can help to equip you to ride the waves this year.
When Mercury is transiting through water signs, things can get a bit foggy – retrograde or not. Mercury rules the mind, and when this planet travels through watery energy, it can feel like your head has gone swimming.
Brain fog, confusion, and distraction can run high. Water distorts things, so we are more likely to have misperceptions. Reality floats away into strange, otherworldly places.
In other words: Don’t expect life to be linear during these times.
Every Mercury retrograde period is a time to step back, reflect, review, and unwind. The problem is that for much of our lives we’re caught up in the order to keep things “business as usual.”
But astrology reminds you the universe doesn’t adhere to that same slogan.
Even the planets take a break, and you should, too.
If you learned something during last year’s Mercury retrograde periods, then try to apply it to your life this year.
Step back from your devices if you need to.Give yourself some extra alone time.Sleep on it before firing off that angry email.Expect plans to fall through, because they usually do during these times.Make space for your imagination and let yourself do something you don’t normally make time for.
Get beyond the everyday, and change up your routine or your approach to something.
February 16 to March 9: Mercury retrograde in Pisces (ending in Aquarius)
Mercury is in its detriment in Pisces, which means it is challenged here.
That doesn’t mean that Mercury in Pisces is bad, just that Mercury has to work a lot differently than usual. Where Mercury typically wants to get to the point in plain language, Pisces teaches it to speak in poetry, energy, dreams and symbols.
What are your dreams telling you during this time?
Where have you become disconnected from your creative side?
Where might you need to find an imaginative or spiritual solution to an everyday problem?
You might feel particularly sensitive now as your receptivity can run high and everyone’s energies are spilling over. Just be mindful to have strong grounding practices: Carrying a dark stone like black tourmaline or doing a morning and evening meditation can be helpful.
Remember that this Mercury retrograde can skew people’s perceptions and misunderstandings can be more likely, so be aware of jumping to conclusions.
Mercury will slip back into Aquarius once March 4 rolls around, which will help to lighten the mood towards the end of this retrograde.
Here’s a three-card spread to help you navigate Mercury retrograde in Pisces:
1. What do I need to put aside right now?
2. What do I need to daydream about instead?
3. What can I learn when I stop and listen to the universe?
June 18 – July 12: Mercury retrograde in Cancer
June’s Mercury retrograde may have you wanting to pull back into your inner world a little more than usual.
If you can, earmark these few weeks for personal projects, downtime, and gentle plans. Making time to read, journal, or simply reconnect with yourself are good areas of focus.
Cancer can be known as the homebody in the zodiac, and so for some, prioritizing time with family or re-jigging your work-life balance can come into full force here.
You might find that leaky boundaries are sucking away precious time with your loved ones, or realize that your hectic schedule just doesn’t work for you anymore.
Use this time to make whatever changes are necessary to get back to yourself, and what matters most.
Here’s a tarot spread to help you connect with Mercury retrograde in Cancer:
1. What is most important to me right now?
2. How can I honour this?
3. How can I reset my boundaries to become more empowered?
October 13 to November 3: Mercury retrograde in Scorpio (ending in Libra)
Our final Mercury retrograde of 2020 starts in Scorpio. Scorpio is a truth-teller and speaks from the gut, making this a strong time for you to connect with your inner truth.
This Mercury retrograde may challenge you to dig deep into what matters most to you. Masks can come off during Mercury retrograde, and you might use this time to break away from a rut or an old pattern that no longer serves you.
Scorpio is not the most extroverted of the zodiac signs and these few weeks will be good ones to retreat into your own little world for a while. Make time for ritual, tarot, and whatever self-care feels necessary during this time so that you can root down into what feels most honest for you.
Here is a three-card spread you can use to navigate Mercury retrograde in Scorpio:
1. What truth needs to be acknowledged?
2. How can I transform as a result?
3. What action can I take to fully live this truth?
Mercury Retrograde can be a tricky time to navigate. There are so many things that are out of our control. But what we can control is how we react to any road blocks we may encounter this year. In 2020, try approaching Mercury Retrograde as an opportunity for shift and make space for growth and change in your life. Remember surviving the transit is easier than you think.
The post 2020 Mercury Retrograde Survival Guide by Liz Worth appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
January 27, 2020
Setting Daily Intentions with Tarot
There are many ways that Tarot can help you along your journey in life.
I prefer to look at Tarot as a guide to help me manifest the life I desire, rather than using it to predict my future. There is something so empowering about tuning into my inner wisdom and bringing that into my daily life.
I’ve shared my planning process on how I use Tarot to plan the month ahead. Now I’d like to show you how you can set your daily intentions with Tarot.
At the start of my day, I begin by taking a moment to clear my mind and focus on my breath.
On the mornings when I have a bit more time, I sit in meditation to help me prepare for my day. Most mornings, I start by taking three deep breaths in and out to really clear my mind and center myself.
With my trusty Tarot cards in hand and my Biddy Tarot Planner, I focus on my goals and intentions for the year. This is what I want to manifest and create. While I focus, I’m shuffling my deck and pull a card. This helps me to set a daily intention that’s aligned with my goals for the year.
The card I draw helps me to tune in and determine how best to use that energy to support my goals for the day. So, if I pull the Queen of Cups, perhaps it’s important that I am nurturing myself and taking breaks while working in order to stay in alignment with my goals and intentions. I’ll set a reminder to take a break and go for a quick stroll or spend more time meditating. Maybe at the end of my day, I’ll have a nice bath.
If it helps, you can create a specific question to ask each day, something like “what can I do today to manifest my desires” or “how can I stay aligned with my highest self”. Then you shuffle and draw a Tarot card, allowing the energy and message of that card to help you set your intention for the day. Perhaps you drew the Five of Pentacles, that might mean I need to reach out and ask for support so I am not going at it alone.
Another way you can use Tarot to help you set an intention, is to start with an intention. Perhaps your intention is to be more open. Shuffle your deck and draw a card, allow the energy and meaning of the card to help you determine what steps to take to achieve your intention. If the card pulled is the Three of Cups, you may want to set an intention to make time to connect with a friend, plan a night out on the town, or plan a dinner date.
To make it even more powerful, have your intentions or the questions you’re asking related to the goals you set for yourself this year. If you want to focus on one goal each month or quarter that’s fine too. This is a great way to really dial into your intuition and highest self for support in reaching your dreams.
Finally, you can simply use the Tarot to set your intention without having a specific question or intention in mind. Just shuffle and draw a card. And use the card to set your intention. So if you were to pull the Seven of Pentacles, you may use that to set an intention to spend time on what you value or to practice patience as you work towards your goals.
A great way to make Tarot part of your daily life is with the Biddy Tarot Planner. It’s the ultimate guide to creating your most powerful year and helps you to take aligned action towards your goals. When you’re in a space of aligned action, making decisions and taking action becomes easy. You know exactly what you need to do to manifest your highest goals and dreams.
And best of all, you are inspired and motivated to make it happen.
If you are ready to infuse your intentions with Tarot, order your Biddy Tarot Planner today!
The post Setting Daily Intentions with Tarot appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
December 31, 2019
2020 Tarot Card of the Year: The Emperor
In 2020, the year of the Emperor, you are being called to build a solid foundation to support your future growth. Success is imminent, so long as you have the right structures in place and the self-discipline to follow through. This is the time for you to tap into the vast power of the Divine masculine and take aligned action to move forward with your goals and ambitions.
The Tarot card for 2020 is the Emperor (2+0+2+0 = 4 – The Emperor).
At its core, the energy of the Emperor is represented by:
Establishing a solid foundationTaking action and moving forwardBeing disciplined and following a structureConnecting with the Divine masculine energy
Success is coming to you – oh yes it is! But, in order for you to be able to receive that success and hold it in your energy field in a way that is sustainable, you must first create a solid foundation and structure that can fully support this new level of success.
For example, you can attract great wealth, but if you do not have a way to invest your money or manage your finances, that wealth will disappear as quickly as it arrived (this is also why so many lottery winners end up going broke because they are not ready to fully receive the sudden flow of cash).
This year it is essential that you upgrade your systems and structures, whether in your relationships, career, finances or personal life, to prepare you for the immense opportunity and potential that is coming your way. You need to be ready to hold more, have more, be more. You need to be ready to receive and have the capacity within you to retain what comes into your vortex of energy. Because if you don't upgrade your systems and structures or if you try to build on shaky foundation, your success will not last.
In this Emperor year, you are also being called to tap into the power of the Divine masculine and activate your ‘yang' energy. This is the year to make things happen, to take action that is aligned with your goals and to move forward with confidence and ambition. You have a huge opportunity to manifest your dreams and desires, so long as you step up and lead the way. Create calm out of the chaos by breaking down any problem into its parts and them mapping out actions you need to take to resolve it.
Be systematic, strategic and highly organized in your approach, and stick to your plan until the end.
No more waiting around for something to change. Take charge of your life and make it happen!
journaling prompts
Use these journaling prompts throughout the year to help you stay in alignment with the Emperor energy.
What foundations do I need to support my growth and success?What actions do I need to take to achieve my goals?What does the Divine masculine look like for me?How can I apply structure and discipline to my life for greater success?
If you want the perfect tool to support and guide you through the energies of 2020, the Biddy Tarot Planner is for you. With monthly Tarot card rituals, seasonal spreads and lots of journaling prompts and space for reflection, the Planner will support you in manifesting your best year yet, with the Tarot as your guide.
Order Your Biddy Tarot Planner Today.
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July 28, 2019
How to Work With the Moon to Create Business Success
Have you ever wondered why you feel really energised about your work some days, but other days, you simply want to curl up under your bedcovers and retreat from the world? Or maybe some weeks, it feels like everything in your business is growing abundantly, but other weeks, you just want to tear everything down and start over?
If you're anything like me (and most other entrepreneurs), you've probably tried to push through, keep producing, and hustle, hustle, hustle, even when it felt like you were hitting a brick wall. Even when your body, mind and spirit were crying out for rest. Because that's what we've been told for so long – if we want to be successful as entrepreneurs and build a thriving business, we need to hustle and grind, 24/7.
Business Success without the “Grind”
What if I told you that it doesn't have to be this way? Imagine for just a moment that you could create an abundant, profitable business without living on the edge of exhaustion and burnout. What if you could actually enjoy your business in a state of joy, ease and flow?
Well, using the power and potency of the lunar cycles, you can.
When we work with the cycles of the moon, we create more flow and ease. There’s less striving, and more thriving. We no longer need to push or force our way forward. Instead of working so hard to push against the natural flow of the Moon, we switch into receiving mode, flowing in harmony with nature.
You don't always have to be “on” in order to be successful and get big things done. In fact, it's not natural, or healthy, and could even be a barrier to the ultimate success of your business. If you're totally depleted after launching a new project or offer, you won't be able to show up and serve at your best once it's out in the world.
Lunar Cycles for Business Success
Here’s a quick overview of the 4 key phases of the moon, and the types of business activities that are suited to each phase:
New Moon:
The New Moon is a potent time to plant seeds of inspiration and opportunity. This is the time for dreaming big, feeling into the vision of your business, creative brainstorming, and planning and strategizing inside of your business.
Waxing Moon:
The Waxing Moon is a highly creative and productive period. This is when the energy of the moon is growing by the day, and people attuned to its energy are taking action on their dreams and desires. Your prospective customer may be looking for ways to take action and pursue their goals. If you can offer what they seek, then shazam! You’ve got yourself a new customer.
Full Moon:
If you want to put something new out into the world and be ‘seen’ for your work, then the Full Moon is the perfect time to do it.
This time can also be emotionally intense, so if you are prone to stress, fear or worry around the Full Moon, you might put a ‘keep calm’ plan in place (lots of massages, meditation and ‘me’ time), rather than using this energy for launching new offerings.
Waning Moon:
The energy of the waning moon is focused on releasing and letting go, resting, and re-energizing for the next moon cycle. Your time is best spent on business maintenance activities – wrapping up any loose ends, getting organised and refocusing your efforts.
For even more insight into how to create success with the moon, and to learn exactly how I use lunar cycles in my business, grab your free copy of my guide to Making Money with the Moon.
Using the lunar cycles allows you to recharge and recalibrate your energy in alignment with the Universal energies that are flowing around you
When I finally moved away from the more traditional, “masculine” mode of working (striving, forcing, achieving) and allowed my intuition and feminine lunar cycles to guide me, my business really took off.
Working with the moon cycles helps me to become more present and connect with the natural rhythms of my body, my mind, and my environment. It serves as a reminder to follow a regular pattern of setting intentions, creating mindfully, offering my appreciation, and releasing that which is no longer serving me. And it reminds me that energy is in a constant ebb and flow, and it’s okay to slow down because the energy always returns.
As business owners, the lunar cycles represent a huge untapped resource of nature-based energy which is often overlooked. When you understand the cycles and how to leverage them in your business, you create more flow, ease and abundance. I can show you how.
If you love the idea of business planning with the moon cycles, then check out my FREE guide >> Making Money with the Moon: How to Grow Your Intuitive Business with Ease, Using Lunar Cycles as Your Guide. You’ll get detailed information on how the lunar cycles work and how best to use them in your business, PLUS I take you through exactly how I use each moon phase in my business!
The post How to Work With the Moon to Create Business Success appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
July 21, 2019
why your tarot business needs a business plan
“Business plan”… the very phrase can send shivers
of dread down the spine of even the most financially savvy intuitive
entrepreneur. It just sounds so tedious, corporate and, well… unspiritual.
As mentor and coach to a variety of intuitive entrepreneurs,
from Tarot readers and healers to coaches and educators, I've seen the whole
spectrum of resistance when it comes to creating a business plan.
“It's not about the money, Brigit. I just want to
help people. I don't need a business plan to help people heal”.
“I don't want to get caught up in that business plan
stuff. My accountant can do that. My strength Is in my Tarot reading, so I'll
just focus on providing the best possible service to my Tarot clients.”
“Brigit, I'm afraid that if I focus on the
‘business' side of things, I'll lose my way. I don't want to get off track from
my spiritual path.”
These are all completely valid concerns. Many spiritual and
intuitive entrepreneurs (heck, many all kinds of entrepreneurs!)
have these fears.
…The fear that any form of focus on the financial aspect of
the business will take them off their spiritual path.
…The fear that they don't know what they're doing and
shouldn’t play around in the “business” stuff.
…And the fear that they will somehow be less authentic as a Tarot
reader, healer or coach if they care about their business as much as they care
about their clients.
If you're nodding along here, then please know, these fears
are completely normal.
But…
They're also not true.
The truth is:
…You deserve to sustain yourself and your family as much as
your clients deserve your service.
…Your business is a living entity, made up of all the
energies you and your clients create together. Your business deserves focus,
love, care and attention.
… You can't serve at your most authentic, highest level if
you're stuck in scarcity and fear, and are not deeply connected with the
business from which you serve.
So, Why Create a Business Plan?
A business plan is an essential element of growing any
successful business (yes, even a spiritual business). The act of creating your
business plan, and then reviewing and checking in consistently, focuses your
intention. And, as you know, once your intention is focused, your actions are
focused. Then guess what? Your focused actions lead to the results that you had
intended.
And because it's your business plan, these results
can be anything you genuinely intend.
Number of clients served.
Making a difference in 100 lives this year.
Bringing in enough profit to re-invest in creating a retreat
experience.
Your business. Your goals. Your plan. Your results.
Do You Really Need a Business Plan?
When I first started Biddy Tarot back in 1999, I had no idea
that it would turn into the 7-figure business it is today. Heck, I had no idea
that it was even a business at that point!
So, I have to be honest with you – I never started Biddy
Tarot with a business plan. I simply followed the intuitive breadcrumbs and
from there, the business began to flow.
For example, as I was learning how to interpret the Tarot
cards, I started posting the meanings online simply to help others who may be
on a similar learning journey. Over time, more and more people came to my
website to learn the meanings, and I started to see a new opportunity – create
an eBook so that people could have the card meanings at their fingertips.
Later, as more people asked for a paperback version, we self-published on
Amazon. Now, The
Ultimate Guide to Tarot Card Meanings has sold over 13,000 copies. All by
following the intuitive breadcrumbs.
But this only got me so far. I knew there was so much more
potential for my business to make an impact in the world. So, when I left my
corporate job in 2012 to pursue Biddy Tarot full-time, I thought it would be a
good time to create a formal business plan.
I searched for “business plan” online, I looked up my old
business textbooks from University, and downloaded as many business plan
templates as possible in the hope that I would finally create the rock-solid
plan that so many people say we need in business.
How the “Traditional” Business Plan Template Limits Your Business
Success
But there was just one problem. These business plan
templates felt “old” and out of alignment with the way I wanted to
run my business. For example, they talked about “competitive analysis” – but I
didn’t believe in focusing on what my so-called competitors were doing, because
I wanted to do things in my own unique way. And they talked about “expense
forecasting” when I wanted to follow the law of attraction and focus on
attracting revenue (rather than attracting expenses). And they talked about
“risk management” which just felt totally dry and boring.
By the time I had worked through these templates, I felt
like I wanted to stab myself in the eye!
A New Way of Business Planning for the Intuitive Entrepreneur
You can create your own Tarot business plan – one that is more in alignment with the way you do business. By blending your intuition with sound business strategy, you can focus in on the vision, goals and actions that will bring you real results . It doesn't need to be a typical business plan. It’s simply about aligning your intentions, ready to channel into action and manifestation of your desired results.
When preparing your Tarot business plan, focus on the big picture first, and then move into the detail. Consider your soul purpose and how you can bring this into your business, then drill down from there. A great way to get started with your Tarot business plan is by doing this Tarot spread and journaling your insights and actions.
How to Create Your Tarot Business Plan:
Set
up a sacred space to work through your business plan – light a candle, get
your fave crystals, journal and pen, and ensure you won't be disturbedBefore you begin, take three deep breaths and call
in your intuition to guide youWork through your business plan (using a template if that
feels good for you), allowing yourself to really stand in your highest vision
for your businessIf you get stuck or need some extra guidance,
draw a Tarot card for each area of your business plan to spark ideasTreat this as a fluid process. It isn’t a ‘do
once and forget’ activity. It will evolve over time and you will get clearer
about what you are here to do in this lifetime
No matter where you are in your business journey, creating a
business plan can really align you with your soul's purpose and give you deep
insights into how to best serve your clients, at the same time as serving
yourself.
You get to decide what your business plan means to you, and
how you work with it. By blending your intuition with sound business strategy,
you'll have a business plan that sustains your business well into the future.
Imagine how many souls you can serve then…
For even more powerful business planning, I love to work with the phases of the moon. Tuning into the lunar cycles is a fantastic way to make decisions and plan different activities in your business. This has worked so well in my business, that I've put together a free guide for you to experience it for yourself.
Discover how to create more financial (and spiritual) success in your intuitive business with my FREE guide – Making Money with the Moon. Download your copy today.
The post why your tarot business needs a business plan appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
June 23, 2019
78 Ways to Market Your Tarot Business
Do you want more Tarot reading clients coming through your virtual door? Want to get yourself out there and known for the amazing work you do? Don’t just sit there – market yourself!
No more excuses or procrastinating about how on earth you’ll do it. I’ve come up with 78 ways to market your Tarot business, both in the online and offline worlds.
Online Marketing Strategies
1. Build a Tarot reading website. Use WordPress and do it in less than 4 minutes.
2. Set up a Facebook page and use it to share great Tarot articles, insights, tips, card-of-the-day and to build a community of like-minded people.
3. Set up a Twitter page and share daily short-and-sharp 1-card readings.
4. Start a blog and share your insights into the Tarot.
5. Answer questions on Tarot forums and build a solid reputation as someone who has a genuine desire to help.
6. Set up a business Instagram account and connect with your ideal potential clients.
7. Follow Instagram accounts in Tarot and related fields who have an engaged following. Post insightful comments and contribute to the conversation to create interest in your Instagram page.
8. Optimise your website for search engine traffic (find out how).
9. Create an e-newsletter with Tarot tips or communal Tarot readings (e.g. card of the week).
10. Set up an affiliate program so that others can refer clients to you and receive a commission for doing so.
11. Build relationships with people in complementary industries (e.g. numerology, astrology, life coaching, etc.) and ask for a referral.
12. Create a professional-looking email signature and advertise your services in it.
13. Create an online quiz that builds interest and curiosity in the Tarot (e.g. what Tarot card are you?). Make sure you include a link to your website.
14. Write an eBook on Tarot to showcase your knowledge and attract subscribers to your email list.
15. Start your own Tarot podcas.t Bring on guests and offer free mini Tarot readings.
16. Get listed on a group buy website like Groupon or Living Social.
17. Encourage social sharing on your website with Sharebar.
18. Share sample Tarot readings on your website along with the customer’s feedback. Of course, make sure you get permission to share the reading before you post it.
19. Offer a free Tarot reading to a popular blogger (in any field) and if they love it, ask them to write about it on their blog or website.
20. Conduct a case study or interview with a previous client and show how they transformed their lives with the help of your Tarot reading.
21. Shoot a memorable video about your Tarot reading skills and post it to Youtube.
22. Create Tarot reading specials for different times of the year. Offer a Love Tarot Reading special for Valentine’s Day or a New Year special for the start of the year.
23. Run a competition to win a free Tarot reading with you and cross-promote on other websites.
24. Have a clear ‘call to action’ on your Tarot readings/Services page, e.g. “Buy Now” or “Book Reading”.
25. Add a ‘bonus’ to your Tarot reading, e.g. a brief numerology or astrology report.
26. Become a guest on a Tarot podcast.
27. Have a ‘weird’ sale like, “I just pulled the Six of Pentacles and I’m ready to give, give, give.”
28. Write a guest post for another Tarot (or similar) blog and be sure to include your links in the profile.
29. Run a free webinar or teleseminar on Tarot and share your knowledge and your services.
30. Offer Tarot reading gift vouchers.
31. Advertise on your own website. Sounds obvious, but make sure you have a banner that links to your paid services pages.
32. Consider setting up Google Adwords and paid advertising. It’s not always effective, so make sure you get informed on how to get the most ROI out of Adwords.
33. Create an email autoresponder series such as the 10 Most Insightful Tarot Spreads, and include links to your Tarot business.
34. Leave insightful comments on other people’s blogs and contribute to the conversations.
35. Register your business with Google Local.
Existing Client Strategies
36. Create a loyalty program where your clients receive points that can be used on free Tarot readings.
37. Offer your current clients a referral bonus, e.g. refer a friend and get 50% off your next Tarot reading.
38. Reconnect with your clients 3-4 months after their Tarot reading to check in that everything is going OK.
39. Mail (yep, snail mail) your loyal customers a personal thank-you note and 5 postcards with a “Refer a Friend” special.
40. Collect the birth dates of your customers and offer a special discount for a Birthday Tarot reading.
Branding Strategies
41. Craft an attention-grabbing tagline for your Tarot business.
42. Tell your personal story on your About page and get clear on what style of Tarot reading you offer.
43. Be authentic and show passion. There’s an old adage, “People buy from people they like.”
44. Design a stand-out logo for your Tarot business.
45. Get clear on what your customers truly value in your Tarot readings and use this to form your marketing communications.
46. Talk in terms of benefits rather than features, e.g. “accurate and insightful Tarot readings” rather than “email Tarot readings”.
47. Find your unique ‘voice’ and ‘image’. For example, Dan Donche is the edgy, bold and “inappropriate Tarot reader“. What are you going to be known for?
48. Create an eye-catching business card. Sure, you can get freebies from Vistaprint, or engage a designer to make you something really special.
49. Include customer testimonials on all of your marketing materials.
50. Be the Purple Cow. Find a way to stand out from the crowd and be different.
51. Offer a guarantee that if your customers are not 100% satisfied with their Tarot reading, they can get their money back. Trust me, it is rarely used.
Offline Marketing Strategies
52. Create Tarot card postcards with your details printed on the back and drop them in random, unexpected places – on the street, at a bus stop, along the beach, at the local park. People will be intrigued when they pick up a Tarot card and may be compelled to get in touch with you to find out what it all means.
53. Prepare your ‘elevator pitch’ (a 30 second spiel about your Tarot business and why your customers rave about you) and be ready to share it with everyone you meet.
54. Post a flyer for your Tarot business at the local shops, especially new age shops.
55. Carry your business cards with you always, and be ready to hand them out as you eagerly tell others what you do for a living.
56. Offer 10 minute Tarot readings for $10 at your local library, café or hairdresser, and hand out your business cards for more in-depth readings. Tell your well-networked hairdresser all about your business and ask her to recommend you to her clients.
57. Write a regular article in a new age / spiritual magazine and include your contact details in your profile.
58. Join local small business groups with people from diverse backgrounds, and attend regular networking events.
59. Take out an ad in your local newspaper, but make sure you’re attracting the intended market.
60. Join your local Tarot association.
61. Create a local meet-up group around Tarot.
62. Create a unique story about you as a Tarot reader (e.g. professional management consultant turned professional Tarot consultant) and pitch the story to your local newspaper for coverage. Larger newspapers often get their story ideas from the local papers.
63. Brand your car with your Tarot business contact details and logo.
64. Join associations in complementary fields where you have an interest – e.g. astrologers, Pagans, Wiccans, psychics, etc. Build relationships and encourage two-way referrals.
65. Ask your local newspaper or magazine if you can write a regular column with Tarotscopes (Tarot cards for each sign of the zodiac).
66. Ask to present at your local Tarot association’s next meet-up.
67. Partner with people in complementary industries and offer combined packages. For example, why not join forces with a beauty therapist and offer Tarot readings + Pampering parties?
68. Put up a huge advertising banner in the front window of your house or office.
69. Join your local Chamber of Commerce.
70. Give back to the community by offering free Tarot readings at the next charity event.
71. Post an ad on a free list such as Craigslist or Gumtree (Australia).
72. Set up a stall at the next New Age fair/market such as the Mind Body Spirit festival in Australia.
73. Create a special Tarot reading event for your local mother’s groups. Set up your table at the play centre and read for each mum as their baby plays with the other babies and mums.
74. Sponsor a charity event by offering a gift voucher for a Tarot reading.
75. Offer to give mini Tarot readings at sales events at like-minded shops.
76. Ask your friends and family to promote your Tarot business.
77. Carry your Tarot cards with you all the time – you never know when someone might need a Tarot reading and are prepared to pay for it.
78. Design a few t-shirts that advertise your Tarot business in a quirky way and wear them whenever you go out in populated areas, or even to your next Tarot conference.
OK, what are you waiting for? Get cracking!
Which 5 marketing strategies are you going to put in place this week or this month to bring more customers to your Tarot business?
P.S. Struggling with how to Market Yourself Authentically?
Marketing your Tarot business is one of those tricky things. You don’t want to come across as the annoying Tarot reader who won’t stop bugging people to buy her Tarot readings. But you also don’t want to be completely unknown in the marketplace. So how do you find the sweet spot in the middle?
Well, that’s where I come in. I’ve helped many Tarot professionals build loyal and engaged communities and connect with existing and potential clients using authentic marketing strategies. And I can help you do the same.
In my Grow Your Tarot Business Online program, I will walk you through the exact actions you need to take to find, attract and keep clients and effectively grow your Tarot business – without the guesswork!
>> Click here to learn more about grow your tarot business online
The post 78 Ways to Market Your Tarot Business appeared first on Biddy Tarot.
