1. Introduction: The Power of Tracking & Reflecting with Tarot

Envision this: Each morning, as you sip your coffee or tea, you take a moment to pause and shuffle your tarot deck, asking questions about the day ahead. You draw a card, and what unfolds is a story—personal, intuitive, and just for you—told by your higher, all-knowing self. As you sit with its message, you jot down reflections in your journal, noticing how the card’s themes connect to your experiences. Over time, this simple ritual reveals the bigger picture of your life: what’s thriving, what’s holding you back, and where you’re growing.

A daily tarot practice is a lot like journaling or tracking habits, but with a creative, spiritual twist. Instead of just writing about your mood or checking off a to-do list, you’re connecting with the imagery and meaning of the cards. It’s playful, personal, and open-ended—there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Sometimes it sparks a little “aha!” moment; other times, it’s just a quiet reflection. Either way, it’s your story.

If I’ve sold you on this practice and it sounds like your vibe, I’ve put together an easy how-to guide for you. Just keep reading for all the details—enjoy!

2. Why Tarot Journaling is Such a Valuable Practice

Using tarot as a daily tracking tool is a transformative way to understand life’s energies and patterns. Much like habit tracking or mindfulness journaling, tarot journaling offers a structured yet intuitive framework for self-awareness and growth. Here’s why it’s such a valuable practice:

✶ Get to Know Yourself Better: Taking a few moments each day to reflect on a tarot card can reveal patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and actions you might not notice otherwise.

✶ Bring More Mindfulness into Your Life: This practice encourages you to slow down, be present, and really tune into what’s happening around and within you.

✶ Find Direction & Focus: A tarot card can act like a guide for your day, offering a theme or reminder to keep in mind as you navigate your experiences.

✶ Strengthen Your Intuition: Over time, you’ll notice how much more connected you feel to your inner voice and gut instincts.

✶ Spot Patterns in Your Life: Journaling regularly about your cards helps you see recurring themes—whether it’s a focus on emotions, challenges, or personal growth.

 ​✶ Track Your Personal Growth: Your journal becomes a record of where you’ve been, what you’ve learned, and how you’ve grown. Looking back can be both insightful and inspiring.

✶ Feel More Connected to Something Bigger: Whether you view tarot as a spiritual practice or simply a way to tap into your inner wisdom, it can leave you feeling more grounded and aligned with your purpose.

✶ Create a Daily Ritual Just for You: This is your time to check in with yourself, reflect, and set intentions—like journaling with a little extra magic.

I can tell you from experience—these benefits are real and only get stronger the longer you stick with the practice. Even from the very first day, you’ll start noticing shifts in how you see and move through your world. It’s one of those small habits that can lead to incredible transformations. If you’re curious to try it yourself, let me walk you through how to get started!

3. Getting Started: How to Create Your Own Tarot Journal

First off let’s not overthink this, there’s really no rules and everyone's practice will be unique to them. In this section I’ll offer some ideas to get you started. Feel free to pick and choose what resonates with you or ignore it all and go wild with your own exploration as I can not impress enough how individual this practice is. 

Should You Choose a Physical or Digital Journal?

The truth is, both have their benefits, and it really comes down to personal preference. Choose what feels most accessible to you and fits your personality. For example, I’m an analog girl—I need the tactile experience of pen on paper and the ritual of flipping through physical pages. But I know plenty of people who swear by digital for its convenience and flexibility.

When it comes to tarot journaling, the choice is yours. It’s all about what feels natural and sustainable for you. If you’re not sure which is right, keep reading—I’ll break down the perks and challenges of each to help you decide. Let’s find the system that works best for you!

A Physical Journal

If you love the feel of pen on paper, a physical journal might be your thing. There’s something grounding about the act of writing by hand—it turns your journaling into a mindful, screen-free ritual. Plus, a physical journal lets you get creative! You can sketch, add stickers, or decorate the pages however you want. It becomes a beautiful, tangible record of your journey.

But keep in mind, physical journals can be harder to carry around, and finding specific entries takes time. There’s no handy “search” button, and let’s face it—spilled coffee or a misplaced notebook can be a real heartbreak.

A Digital Journal

If you’re always on your phone or laptop, a digital journal might feel more natural. You can access it anywhere, easily search past entries, and even add photos of your cards or audio reflections. It’s neat, flexible, and there’s no limit to how much you can write. Plus, no worrying about running out of space or making a mistake—just hit “edit” and you’re good to go.

That said, a digital journal means more screen time, which can feel less grounding or personal. And let’s be honest—journaling on a device can lead to distractions. It’s also a bit harder to get creative—you miss out on that tactile connection that comes with a physical journal.

Which One is Right for You?

Think about what feels more enjoyable and sustainable for you. Do you love the ritual of physically writing and flipping through pages? Or do you prefer the convenience and flexibility of a digital setup?

There’s no wrong answer—you might even find that a mix works best! Use a physical journal for creative, reflective entries and a digital one to track patterns or keep things organized on the go. The key is to choose a system that you’ll actually look forward to using. After all, the best journal is the one you’ll stick with!

Daily Reading Prompts

Now that you’ve picked your journal, you might be staring at it thinking, Okay, now what? Don’t worry, I’ve been there too.

First, if you’re anything like me and have a little perfectionist voice in your head, let’s send that voice on a nice, long vacation. This practice isn’t about being perfect—it’s just for you. There’s no one to impress, no grades to get, so take a deep breath and let go of that pressure before you start.

Next, trust your intuition. It’s already there, ready to help you. Grab your deck, start shuffling, and let any questions that pop into your mind come through. Don’t overthink or edit yourself—just go with whatever feels natural in the moment.

And if you’re still feeling stuck, that’s totally okay. I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite questions to help you get started. Pick one, and you’ll be off and running!

✶ “What energy is showing up for me right now?"

This helps you tune into the vibe of your day and set the tone for how to move through it.

✶ "What’s one thing I should focus on today?"

A simple way to cut through the noise and zero in on what really matters.

✶"What challenges might pop up, and how can I handle them?"

Because knowing what to expect and how to deal with it can make all the difference.

 ​✶ "How can I bring more joy or ease into my day?"

A gentle reminder to prioritize the little things that make life feel lighter and brighter.

✶ "What’s the message I need to hear right now?"

Sometimes, all it takes is the right piece of guidance to shift your perspective or give you clarity.

How to Document Your Tarot Cards

Now for the fun part—documenting your journey! The heart of this practice isn’t about getting it perfect; it’s about creating something that feels meaningful and personal to you. Below, I’ve shared some tips to help guide you, but think of them as suggestions, not rules. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and let this practice evolve in a way that feels natural. The beauty of tarot journaling is how customizable it is, so read on, get inspired, and make it your own!

Start with the Basics

Let’s keep it simple to begin with. For each entry, jot down:

✶ The Card: Write down the name of the card you pulled and whether it was upright or reversed.

✶ The Date: Add the date so you can track patterns and revisit past entries over time.

✶ The Deck: If you’re using more than one deck, note which one you pulled from—it can influence the vibe or tone of the reading.

Set the Scene

Before diving into the meaning of the card, take a moment to reflect on your mindset:

✶ Your Question or Focus: What were you thinking about or asking when you pulled the card? Writing this down sets the context for your reading.

✶ Your Mood: How were you feeling—calm, stressed, hopeful, or curious? Understanding your emotional state can offer insight into how you connect with the reading.

✶ First Impressions: What’s your initial reaction to the card? What details jump out to you? Don’t overthink it—just write what comes to mind.

Explore the Card’s Meaning

Now, take a closer look at the card itself:

✶ Symbols or Imagery: Note any specific symbols, colors, or figures that stand out. What do they mean to you?

✶ Keywords: Jot down a few words that capture the card’s energy or themes.

✶ Your Take: How does the card’s message connect to your life, your question, or your current situation?

Check In Throughout the Day

Your tarot practice doesn’t have to stop after you pull your card. Let it unfold with your day:

✶ Midday Moments: Keep an eye out for how the card’s energy shows up in your interactions or experiences. Did something happen that reminded you of the card?

✶ Evening Reflections: At the end of the day, revisit the card. What connections do you notice now? Did its message feel relevant, or did you gain any new insights?

Look for Patterns

Over time, your journal will start to reveal recurring themes that can provide even deeper insights:

✶ Which Cards Show Up Repeatedly? Notice if certain cards keep appearing—they may signal ongoing lessons or areas of focus in your life.

✶ Suits & Archetypes: Are you seeing a lot of Major Arcana cards (big life themes) or particular suits like Cups (emotions) or Swords (challenges)? These patterns can tell you a lot about where your energy is being directed.

Make It Yours

This is your practice, so there’s no “right” way to do it. Maybe you want to include sketches, photos of your cards, or even add creative symbols to represent recurring themes. Or, you might prefer to keep it quick and to the point. The key is to find a style that feels authentic and keeps you coming back to your journal.

An Example to Get You Started

Here’s a simple example of what a daily entry might look like:

✶ Date: November 20, 2024

✶ Deck: Rider-Waite

✶ Card Pulled: The Empress (upright)

✶ Focus: What energy should I embrace today?

✶ First Impressions: “She feels calm and nurturing—like a reminder to slow down and enjoy the little things.”

✶ Reflection: “Today, I focused on self-care and simple joys, like making a warm meal and taking a walk. The Empress reminded me to lean into these moments and let them nurture me.”

The most important part? Let this practice feel like yours. There’s no need for perfection—just consistency and intention. Over time, your journal will become a beautiful reflection of your journey with the cards and, ultimately, with yourself.

4. Advanced Tips: Tracking Patterns & Reflecting on Progress

Sometimes the basics just aren’t enough, and you find yourself craving something more. If that’s you, don’t worry—I’ve got some ideas to keep your practice fresh and inspiring.

I know I keep saying how personal this practice is (and yes, I’m going to hammer it home again), but it’s because it’s so true. No two practices are alike, and that’s the beauty of it. You can go minimalist or full-on artsy maximalist. You can journal daily, weekly, or whenever the mood strikes. You can even tailor it to specific goals or intentions. It’s also a powerful tool for bringing awareness to stuck mindsets or areas of stagnation in your life.

In this section, let’s explore some other ways you can expand your practice. 

Monthly or Weekly Recaps

Taking time to look back through your journal can be one of the most eye-opening and rewarding parts of this practice. It’s a chance to reflect, reconnect, and notice things you might not have picked up on in the moment. Think of it as checking in with your story—where you’ve been, what’s unfolding, and what’s shifting.

Here’s how to make it simple and impactful:

 ​​✶ Notice Recurring Cards: Do certain cards keep showing up? If you’re seeing the same ones again and again, it might be trying to tell you something. Maybe it’s a lesson you’re working through or a message you’re ready to embrace.

✶ Spot Themes or Patterns: Look for common threads in your entries. Are you pulling lots of Major Arcana cards, pointing to big changes or life lessons? Or maybe you’ve noticed a focus on a specific area of life, like relationships, work, or self-care. These patterns can be so insightful.

✶ Reflect on Life Changes: Think about what’s been happening in your life. Have your readings lined up with changes in your mindset or circumstances? It’s wild how often the cards reflect exactly where we are or where we’re headed.

✶ Celebrate Growth: This is the part where you give yourself some credit. Look back and notice how your energy or perspective has shifted. Are you feeling more aligned? Moving forward on something that felt stuck? Even small changes are worth celebrating.

Doing a weekly or monthly recap doesn’t have to take long. Maybe it’s a few minutes with a cup of tea or a quiet half-hour to dig in deeper. The point isn’t to analyze every detail but to see the bigger picture and remind yourself of the progress you’re making. It’s your chance to honor your journey.

Tracking Specific Goals or Intentions

If you’re working toward a specific goal—like personal growth, financial stability, or building stronger relationships—your tarot journal can become a powerful tool to support that. By intentionally tracking cards and themes related to your goals, you’ll start to see how your readings align with your journey and reflect your progress over time.

Here’s how to make it work for you:

✶ Mark Relevant Entries: When a card or reading feels tied to one of your goals, highlight it in some way. You could use a symbol, a specific color, or even a small note like “Financial” or “Self-Care.” This makes it easier to spot patterns when you look back.

✶ Create Categories: Dedicate a section of your journal to each goal. You could create pages or even a monthly summary where you list the cards that show up related to that focus. For example, if you’re tracking career goals, you might note every Pentacles card that appears and reflect on how it connects to your progress.

✶ Look for Alignment: Over time, compare your readings to what’s happening in your life. Are you seeing cards that encourage action, patience, or a shift in mindset? Do the themes reflect where you are or offer insight into what’s next?

✶ Track Progress: Use your journal to celebrate wins, however small they may feel. Did a card’s advice help you make a decision? Did a recurring theme show you where to focus your energy? These moments are worth documenting—they’re proof of your growth and commitment.

By tailoring your journal to your intentions, you’ll turn it into a practical and inspiring resource. It’s not just about pulling cards; it’s about actively using their guidance to stay aligned with what matters most to you.

Recognizing Energetic Stagnation or Shifts

Your tarot journal can be a mirror, reflecting not just the flow of your energy but also when you might be feeling stuck. Repeated cards or recurring patterns often signal that something in your life needs attention. The wisdom of this practice is that it doesn’t just highlight stagnation—it can also guide you toward actionable steps to create change.

Here’s how to use your journal to spot and shift stuck energy:

✶ Notice Repeated Cards: If the same card keeps showing up, it’s likely pointing to something important. Maybe it’s an area of life where you’re avoiding action, a mindset that needs to shift, or a lesson you’re still working through.

✶ Look for Recurring Themes: Pay attention to patterns. Are you consistently pulling cards related to struggle, indecision, or hesitation? This might indicate where you’re feeling blocked or unsure about your next move.

✶ Reflect on the "Why": Ask yourself, Why might this card or theme keep appearing? What does it make you feel? What’s happening in your life that aligns with it? Being honest with yourself in your journal can help you uncover what’s holding you back.

✶ Take Action to Shift Your Energy: Once you’ve identified the stagnation, use your journal to brainstorm small, actionable steps to move forward. For example, if a card suggests letting go of fear, you might write down one thing you can do to face that fear head-on.

✶ Celebrate the Shifts: When you notice your energy changing—whether through new cards or how you feel—write about it. Recognizing progress, even small steps, can be incredibly motivating and affirming.

Your tarot journal isn’t just a tool for reflection; it’s a way to work through stuck energy and keep moving forward. The cards aren’t there to judge—they’re there to guide, and your journal is the space where you can turn that guidance into action.

5. Making Tarot Journaling a Sustainable Habit

If you want tarot journaling to stick, the key is to make it a habit that feels natural, enjoyable, and easy to maintain. It doesn’t have to be perfect, and it definitely shouldn’t feel like a chore. Think of it as a practice that grows with you—one that fits into your life, rather than something you force yourself to do. Here’s how to keep it sustainable:

 ✶ Start Small & Keep It Simple

You don’t have to write a novel every time you pull a card. Even a few lines about what you pulled, why it stood out, or how it connects to your day is enough. The goal is consistency, not perfection.

✶ Make It Part of Your Routine

Tie your tarot journaling to something you already do. Maybe you pull a card in the morning with your coffee or tea, or you reflect at night before bed. Pairing it with an existing habit makes it easier to remember and more natural to stick with.

✶ Focus on What Feels Good

Your journaling practice doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. If you love writing long reflections, go for it. If you prefer keeping things short and sweet, that’s fine too. Make it feel rewarding and personal to you.

✶ Celebrate the Wins

Notice the moments when your journaling brings clarity or helps you see something in a new way. These little wins keep you motivated and remind you why this habit matters.

✶ Adjust as You Go

Your practice will evolve, and that’s a good thing. Maybe you start with daily pulls but switch to weekly recaps. Or you focus on a specific goal for a while and then shift gears. Let your habit grow with you.

The most important part? Don’t overcomplicate it. Tarot journaling is meant to support your growth, not add pressure. Start where you are, be kind to yourself, and let the habit develop in a way that feels natural and meaningful. Over time, you’ll find it becomes a part of your life that you look forward to—something that just might change your life.

6. Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Phew, you made it to the end—most people don’t, so take a moment to give yourself some credit! Your future self is already thanking you for taking the time to invest in yourself. I know this was a lot to take in, but if there’s one thing I hope you remember, it’s this: your tarot journaling practice is completely yours.

It doesn’t have to be perfect, complicated, or look like anyone else’s. What matters is that you show up for yourself, even in small ways. Whether you’re jotting down quick notes, creating an art-filled journal, or reflecting on a single card once a week, it all counts.

This practice is a tool to help you connect—with yourself, your intuition, and the energies shaping your life. It’s about growth, curiosity, and making space to explore who you are and where you’re headed.

So, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and start small. You don’t need all the answers right away—just a willingness to begin. I’m cheering you on every step of the way, and I know that if you stick with it, this practice will surprise you in the best possible ways. 

FAQ: Your Tarot Journaling Questions Answered

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions about tarot journaling, designed to help you make the most of your practice.

1. Do I have to journal every day?
   Not at all! While daily tarot journaling can help build consistency, it’s not required. You can journal weekly, during moon phases, or whenever inspiration strikes. The key is to make it fit your lifestyle.
2. What if I don’t know how to interpret the cards?
   That’s totally okay! Start by writing down your initial impressions—what stands out, how it makes you feel, or the imagery that catches your eye. Then, look up traditional tarot card meanings as a guide, but trust your intuition first. The more you practice, the easier it becomes.
3. How long should I spend journaling?
   It’s entirely up to you. Some days, you might only jot down a sentence or two; other days, you might dive into a longer reflection. Whether it’s 5 minutes or 20, go with what feels right.
4. What if I skip a day (or a few)?
   No worries! Tarot journaling is meant to support you, not stress you out. If life gets busy, take a break and come back when you’re ready. This practice is flexible and forgiving—it’s all part of the journey.
5. Should I use a physical or digital journal for tarot journaling?
   Both options work! A physical journal can feel grounding and creative, while a digital one is portable and great for tracking patterns. Choose what feels most enjoyable—or use a mix of both.
6. What does it mean if the same card keeps showing up?
   Repeated tarot cards often indicate something important to focus on, like a lesson, an area of life, or a mindset that needs attention. Take time to reflect on what this card might be telling you.
7. Do I need a special deck for journaling?
   Nope! Any tarot deck you connect with will work. If you’re a beginner, a deck with clear imagery like the Rider-Waite Tarot can make interpretation easier.
8. How can I stay consistent with tarot journaling?
   Tie your journaling to an existing habit, like your morning coffee or evening wind-down routine. Keep it simple, focus on what feels good, and don’t stress about perfection. Consistency will come naturally over time.
9. Can tarot journaling help me achieve specific goals?
   Absolutely! Tailor your journal to focus on goals like career success, emotional healing, or creative inspiration. Highlight readings connected to these goals and look for patterns or guidance.
10. Can I combine tarot journaling with mindfulness or meditation?
    Yes! Tarot journaling works beautifully alongside mindfulness and meditation practices. Pull a card after meditating to reflect on your session, or use journaling to set mindful intentions for the day or week.
11. What if a card doesn’t make sense right away?
    That’s totally normal! Write down your initial thoughts, even if they don’t seem connected. Often, the meaning becomes clearer later in the day or after a few days.
12. Can I journal about more than one card in a day?
    Of course! Whether you pull a single card or use a larger spread, feel free to journal about as many cards as you want. Just focus on what feels meaningful and manageable.
13. Can I include oracle cards in my journaling?
    Yes! Oracle cards can add an extra layer of insight and work beautifully alongside tarot. Use them to complement your readings or for standalone reflections.
14. What if I don’t have a question in mind when I pull a card?
    That’s fine! You can ask something open-ended like, “What energy do I need to focus on today?” or simply pull a card and let it guide you.
15. Can tarot journaling help me make decisions?
    Yes, but think of it as a tool for reflection rather than a definitive answer. Use the cards to explore your options, uncover hidden factors, or gain clarity on potential outcomes.
16. What should I do if I don’t feel “connected” to my cards?
    This happens to everyone! On days like this, shuffle your deck without pulling a card, or simply take a break and revisit your practice when it feels right. Journaling about this feeling of disconnection can also be insightful.
17. Do I have to stick to traditional card meanings?
    Not at all! Traditional meanings can be a helpful guide, but your intuition is just as important. Over time, you’ll find a balance between both that feels natural to you.
18. How can tarot journaling help me track emotional patterns?
    Pay attention to cards tied to emotions (like Cups) or themes that resonate with your mood. Over time, you’ll notice patterns in your feelings and experiences that help you better understand your emotional cycles.
19. What if I’m not very creative?
    This practice isn’t about being artistic—it’s about reflection and connection. Even simple, straightforward notes can be powerful. Start small and let your creativity evolve naturally if it feels right.
20. What’s the biggest benefit of tarot journaling?
    Tarot journaling helps you deepen your self-awareness, uncover patterns, and connect with your intuition. It’s a space for reflection, growth, and creating a stronger sense of purpose in your everyday life.

✦︎ ✦︎ ✦︎

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