Seven of Wands

Seven of Wands

Upright keywords

Competition, Determination, Ambition

Reversed keywords

Giving Up, Fight or Flight, Burnout

As the old saying goes

Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed.

Element

Fire

Seven of Wands description

In the Seven of Wands, you’re standing at the top of a hill, pushing back against the opposition. Wands are pushing you back from the ground below and you must stand your ground and defend your position. The wands at the bottom are like little fires that keep popping up, hidden aspects of yourself that keep coming to the surface. You could also imagine that there are people down below, some haters trying to throw you off balance. You’re putting in a little elbow grease here. On your back foot you wear a show, and on the front foot, a boot meaning that it’s going to get worse before it gets better, so pull up your bootstraps!

The fact that you are on higher ground means that you are capable of accomplishing the tasks at hand. Some say that the shoes are different because this was an unexpected fight, and you rushed out in such a hurry that you grabbed two different shoes. There is water running between your footholds, reminding you to keep emotions low and approach this from a more objective, fact based, approach. Keep your energy steady like the stream because you’re going to have to put in the effort for some time.

Upright meaning

The Seven of Wands appears when you have cultivated the ability to grow and overcome challenges, and now you need to put in the elbow grease. It’s time to work hard and apply yourself. Consider this a test of your will – how badly do you want success? Stand your ground! At times, this card comes when you’ve gotten a promotion or an opportunity to step into the spotlight a bit more. With more visibility comes more people challenging your way of doing things. A little competition will help you grow. Step out of your comfort zone. Be prepared to stand behind your words and your actions. Push back for what you believe in.

Reversed meaning

In reversed, this card can be a sign that you’re thinking about giving up. It might feel like you’re being constantly criticized, questioned, or put under pressure. Don’t let this get to you! You can not make everyone happy all the time, so focus on your happiness. You’re burnt out, burning the candle at both ends. Take a look at the bigger picture and remind yourself why you started this journey in the first place, because you can do it! You might want to shy away from competition or confrontation, but this is an important opportunity for you to back yourself up. Don’t step down too easily. This isn’t to say that you should forge ahead blindly. If you’ve really given it a good shot, and it’s just not working, this card can be a sign to walk away. That choice is up to you.

Seven of Wands quote

“Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.” Robert Louis Stevenson

Want to check in with your higher self?

Tarot helps you step back and consider the bigger picture. This is just a snapshot in time. All things shall pass! Let’s take a look at past, present, and future themes in your life and consider a new direction.