Let’s face it: change feels impossible.
Whether you are dealing with a breakup, changing jobs, or life just likes throwing more plot twists at you, the first thing we tend to do is white-knuckle the past (like it’s the last space on a lifeboat on the Titanic).
Yet, here’s the funny part: The one tarot card that scares people the most – Death tarot card – is actually the best friend in your quest to transform.
That’s right, that skull-faced, scythe-wielding figure of doom is essentially the ultimate glow-up facilitator in life.
Let’s unpack that part.
Death Tarot Doesn’t Mean Death (Breathe!)
First, let’s relax. The Death tarot card is NEVER talking about you literally dying (unless you are in a Final Destination film and then good luck).
The Death card is about:
✔️ Endings to make way for beginnings
✔️ Shedding of what no longer serves you
✔️ The change that you need to happen, but have been resisting, despite it happening for you anyway
It’s a lot like the “delete all” option when you want to clear out your cluttered phone pictures – it can feel terrifying in the moment, but is oh-so liberating after.
What Makes Us Fear This Card (And Why We Shouldn’t)
Our brains are wired to hold onto things that are familiar – even if they’re toxic, stale, or just plain boring.
That’s why:
❌ We stick with dead-end jobs “just a little longer.”
❌ We recycle expired relationships “because what if?”
❌ We resist growth because the unknown feels scarier than how we feel now.
The Death tarot card? The universe rolling its eyes and saying, “Babe, it’s time.”
How To Work With the Death Tarot Card (Instead of Running Away From It)
1️⃣ Stop Fighting – Surrender
Trying to hold back change is like trying to hold back the tide. Each time you resist, you’re creating more hurt. Instead ask:
What’s actually ending here?
What’s waiting for me on the other side?
2️⃣ Grieve and then Release
Endings deserve to be mourned – even necessary endings.
Let it all out: Cry. Journal. Eat an entire pizza. Release it like a bad date.
3️⃣ Find the Phoenix Moment
Death is always followed by rebirth.
What’s being cleared in your life right now, so something better may grow?
Lost a job? New career incoming.
Failed a relationship? Your sense of self went up a level.
Life feels shaky? You’re being rebuilt stronger.
4️⃣ Utilize the Process
The Death card is a reminder that you don’t have to control everything.
Sometimes your best growth is when you stop holding on and allow life to unfold.
So, what does it mean when Death shows up in a Tarot Reading?
Upright? This shows that there is a significant chapter that is closing. Don’t panic, try to prepare yourself.
Reversed? Let’s get real – you’re stuck in denial.
Paired with The Tower? Hold on, this change is going to happen fast and be tumultuous.
Next to The Star? New beginnings are on their way, and are even better than what you’re leaving.
Final Thoughts: Change is the only Constant.
Death is not your enemy, it’s your upgrade button. The more you embrace endings, the more you can get closer to achieving:
🌟 Freedom (from what is still weighing you down)
🌟 Sovereignty (into who you belong, not only to the world but also to yourself)
🌟 Unexpected magic (because come on – life loves a plot twist!)
So when you meet Death again, don’t scream, just say thank you. Remember, you can’t glow-up until you shed the old skin first.
Have you ever had Death tarot show up right before a big phase upgrade? We’d love to hear your story below! 💀🔥
