# EIGHT OF CUPS The Eight of Cups shows a moment after a decision has been made. A man, who has spent much time gathering and arranging his eight cups, has turned his back on and abandoned them. The way the cups are arranged looks as if one is missing, reflecting the emotional emptiness he felt when he was consumed by them. It’s interesting to note that at the top of the card, the V on the VIII is left open, mirroring the open empty space in the cup tower (on all other cards the V is closed). His red cloak and shoes illustrate the passion he has for his next phase of life, headed in a new direction. Ahead lay mountains, representative of challenges to come, and a large river, bringing to mind the phrase “flood of emotions.” The figure heads into unknown territory on a search for a more meaningful life. It remains debated whether the moon in the sky is illustrated as a combination of a crescent/full moon, or of an eclipse. ## 키워드 **정방향 (Upright):** Abandonment, disappointment, walking away, shifting priorities, withdrawal, introspection, seeking deeper meaning **역방향 (Reversed):** Aimlessness, stagnation, avoidance, low self-esteem or self- worth, fear of change, settling, escapism ## BEGINNINGS ### 정방향 (Upright) You’re in a time of transition, walking away from something that wasn’t working or left you feeling unfulfilled. Although your primary emotions may be negative—feeling disappointed, sad, or angry—you’re committed to trying a new path and you see the potential for happiness. **실천 사항 (Action):** Although you’re feeling like the weary traveler, keep your face to the sun and have faith that you’re being led to walk away for a reason. ### 역방향 (Reversed) You know there’s something you need to do, a decision to make, but you’re avoiding it. Escapism and ignoring it altogether sound easier than vulnerability and bravery. **실천 사항 (Action):** Babe . . . it’s time to do the thing. Get vulnerable, and let your heart guide the way. You can do this. ## CAREER ### 정방향 (Upright) You’re considering a new path in your career; the one you’re on no longer feels aligned or fulfilling. **실천 사항 (Action):** If you’re ready to leave, this card is your sign to look for something new. ### 역방향 (Reversed) You may be staying at a job you’re not thrilled about because it’s comfortable or you’re afraid to walk away. **실천 사항 (Action):** Would you tell your younger self that it’s okay to settle in life? I’m guessing no! Work on your self-esteem and go after something that scares you. You’re more capable than you think. ## MONEY ### 정방향 (Upright) This card can indicate financial loss and walking away from something before you lose more money to it. Alternately, it can suggest leaving behind monetary comfort in pursuit of bigger dreams. **실천 사항 (Action):** If finances aren’t looking great, look to the guidance of a financial advisor for next steps. ### 역방향 (Reversed) You may be doing things right now purely for monetary financial security. And that’s okay! There are more fulfilling things out there for you and you will not settle here forever. **실천 사항 (Action):** Make a long-term plan to save and slowly incorporate in a side gig that brings joy. ## LOVE ### 정방향 (Upright) This card most likely signifies the end of a relationship and walking away. If single, you may be avoiding the dating scene right now. **실천 사항 (Action):** Make time for major reflection and introspection on what you desire from a relationship. Try not to allow fear to lead decision making. ### 역방향 (Reversed) In a relationship, this card can indicate staying because it’s comfortable or you’re worried about what your life would look like without the relationship. Another take on this card is that, as a couple, you’re working to better your relationship. If single, low self-worth is holding you back. **실천 사항 (Action):** Whether single or in a relationship, it’s time to work on that self-worth, babe! Decide from a place of confidence and knowing you deserve only the best. ## FRIENDS & FAMILY ### 정방향 (Upright) You’re feeling called to step away from your usual circle or friends or from seeing family quite so often. **실천 사항 (Action):** Try not to feel guilty for this! Meeting new people will bring much-needed excitement and positive change to your life. ### 역방향 (Reversed) The reversed Eight of Cups can signal returning home and back to your comfort zone after trying something that didn’t work out as you planned. This card can also represent avoiding a tough conversation you need to have with a loved one. **실천 사항 (Action):** Gather your courage and have the talk. You’ll feel better once things are out in the open. ## HEALTH ### 정방향 (Upright) Hanging onto an emotionally draining situation or mind-set is affecting your mental health. You’re tired, stressed, anxious, or even depressed. **실천 사항 (Action):** It’s time for some mental spring cleaning! Daily affirmations, energy work, and mirror work can help change your outlook. A pep talk from a friend won’t hurt either. Walk away from situations that are negatively affecting your health. ### 역방향 (Reversed) Escapism through food, drink, binge watching TV, etc., is likely affecting your health in a negative way. **실천 사항 (Action):** The cycle ends now! Decide today to work on emotional or mental health issues that are causing you to utilize escapism. ## HIGHER GUIDANCE ### 정방향 (Upright) You’re on an introspective path to truth and deeper meaning. You’re spending lots of time alone, but you aren’t lonely. Something in your life is missing, and you’re determined to find it. **실천 사항 (Action):** Embrace this journey of self-discovery. Make peace with the fact that you may need to leave behind aspects of your life that are no longer serving you. ### 역방향 (Reversed) You may find yourself unable to make an important decision, or you feel as if you’re drifting aimlessly about life. Your guides see you. They want you to know that although things may feel hopeless, they aren’t! **실천 사항 (Action):** Big questions like, “What truly makes me happy?” and “Do I feel like I’m living in alignment?” need to be asked. These answers will help guide decisions and pathways to take. ## OUTCOME ### 정방향 (Upright) This card suggests that things may not go as you’d hoped. Disappointment and abandoned plans go hand in hand with the Eight of Cups. **실천 사항 (Action):** Ask yourself if the path you’re on is where you want to be. If yes, consider how you can move forward with more flow and adaptation to mitigate disappointment. If not, it might be time to walk away. ### 역방향 (Reversed) If you’re not able to be decisive and confident, you’ll let life lead you, rather than taking the reins and choosing the direction yourself. **실천 사항 (Action):** Don’t accept things as they are. You have the power to change your life at any moment. If you don’t, the outcome will be less than fulfilling.