“When we are motivated by the desire to sell, we are only looking out for ourselves. When we are motivated by the desire to serve, we are looking out for others.” — Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love (1992)
There are basically two approaches to working in this world…either you are focused on what you can get from others, or inspired to give. Behind this motivation is one’s reason for engaging in their work….out of love or fear…love for what you do, or fear of not having enough. I realize at times one might feel both, excitement for their work while facing the challenge of meeting financial responsibilities, but the feeling tone and attitude that goes into providing your service is what reveals your predominant belief.
I’ve spent most of my adult life living month-to-month, not knowing if all my financial obligations would be met and getting really good at juggling resources, but when it comes to my work in the world, my service, I only engage with the attitude of how can I provide my best with the things I love to do with the folks I choose to share my gifts with. That exchange of energy is met with a sense of honor and appreciation, not fear of whether I’m getting enough for my time. And yes, I do request a fee for my time and expertise, but that is a significant symbol of the exchange of energy, not a financial calculation designed to meet a business plan. Those who have known my work for awhile may remember that I only raise my prices once each 10 years, far from a business model, although I still account for my finances as a business, for tax obligation purposes, and I advertise my services, mostly because I live out in the woods and often work from a distance.
As Tarot professionals and other oracles, many of us accept money for our readings. Some would define calling oneself a “professional” based on the fact that they accept money for their skill, while others reserve that term to describe their level of proficiency, regardless of whether they charge a fee or not. Yet, I would ask you, “Why do you offer readings?” Is it to make money, earn a living, meet your financial goals…or is it a service that you love to perform no matter the financial reward? And then, as you engage in the reading, is your mind 100% focused on the artful dance of the energy exchange, or does it drift into thoughts of whether you charged enough, or, how to attract more clients and money?
As you might tell, I have a bias and speak for the art of Tarot and oracle reading (and teaching) while challenging us all to raise the bar on the public perception of who we are, what we are doing, and with clarity of our ethics.
RECOMMENDED READING ON The Ethics of Being an Oracle:
An Introduction to Transformative Tarot Counseling — Katrina Wynne, MA
Fortune Stellar: What Every Professional Tarot Reader Needs to Know (2nd Ed.) — Christiana Gaudet
The Medicine Woman’s Guide to Being in Business for Yourself: How to Live by Your Spiritual Vision in a Money-Based World — Carol Bridges
Professional Tarot: The Business of Reading, Consulting, and Teaching — Christine Jette
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MY SACRED JOURNEY . . . 