Learning Tarot Through Micro Habits

Learning Tarot Through Micro Habits: A Simple Approach

It is often the micro habits that help us learn complex topics.   Tarot is one of these topics that applying micro habits can help you learn more faster.  Many people feel overwhelmed when they first start learning tarot. The key is to break it down into manageable steps rather than trying to learn everything at once. Micro habits—small, consistent actions—can make tarot more approachable and intuitive.

First Choose a Deck

There is the initial choices of decks.  There are hundreds of options out there.  Enough to paralyze you before you open them. I always suggest the Rider Waite Smith Deck.   It is the one most people are familiar with and the symbolism is well documented.   Once you master this deck, you can go on to some of the more exotic ones.   Some of my favorites include:   The Golden Girls Tarot, The Herbcrafter’s Tarot, After Tarot, Before Tarot, and Game of Thrones Tarot.

Focus on the Major Arcana

When I first started, a friend advised me to put the Minor Arcana aside. Focusing on just 22 Major Arcana cards made it easier to grasp tarot’s deeper themes. I spent a few days with each card, moving on only when I was ready. Reversals weren’t a priority at first—just mastering upright meanings was enough.

Introducing the Minor Arcana Gradually

Once I felt confident, I moved on to the suits: Cups (emotions & relationships), Pentacles (material world & career), Wands (passion & creativity), and Swords (thoughts & challenges). Studying the numbers 1-10 helped me recognize patterns across the suits, and later, I took my time with the Court Cards, which can be complex.

Building Confidence with Personal Interpretation

Many beginners rely on guidebooks too much. While helpful at first, at some point, you must trust your own intuition. Journaling each reading helps track progress and personal insights. Over time, I found that my interpretations became more natural and unique to me.  Yes there are standard insights, but the power comes from the things books don’t tell you.  Understanding how cards play off of each other and either enhance or weaken the effect of another card.

Exploring Spreads & Reversals When Ready

Many people start with spreads, but I waited until I felt solid on individual card meanings. Once I was ready, I experimented with reversals and spread layouts, layering my knowledge naturally.  Today I do not use a standard spread when reading.   I generally start with 3 cards, and see where I go from there.   Asking clarifying questions with each new card.  It is what works for me.

Trusting Your Own Way of Reading

Your interpretations are valid—even if they don’t match the book. You don’t have to read like anyone else. Your tarot practice is your own. Small, consistent steps lead to deep learning over time.  There are so many options, so many combinations and they all depend on your unique view.  You give 6 Tarot readers the same set of cards with the same person, you will get 6 completely different takes.   So do not be afraid of being wrong.

Journaling Prompts for Tarot Growth

• What card did I pull today, and how does it reflect my current energy?
• How do I personally connect with this card beyond the traditional meaning?
• What patterns am I noticing in my readings over time?
• What was easier for me today than it was last month?

Learning tarot doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small daily habits with micro habits will build confidence and deepen intuition. Trust yourself, embrace the journey, and let your personal connection to the cards grow.