this is not self-sabotage… this is self-preservation
these readings are timeless. Trust what resonates and allow yourself to let go of what doesn’t.
A quick note before we begin: If you want to see the year ahead through a wider lens, I’ve just released the 2026 energy map: your year of becoming — a collective tarot reading exploring the key themes shaping the year. I’ll share more at the end.
Last week, we spoke briefly about speaking up for your own needs and demanding your worth. This may have felt really painful and awkward, and you might not even think that you did it that well, because of the fallout that happened afterwards.
Not that there was much said or done, per se, but you know exactly how certain people feel when you set a boundary rooted in self-worth. You know exactly what being left on read means in that context, and you know exactly what those two people are saying about you behind your back as a result of you actively asking for what you deserve.
the confrontation
So along with you stepping into this power, I just want to acknowledge the ways in which it can feel almost like you are putting yourself in a difficult position. It can feel like ‘why bother?’ when people respond with unspoken judgements, snide remarks, or manipulation dressed up as concern.
But this is you facing your shadow. This is you confronting the part of you that normally sacrifices herself in order to avoid those painful moments of feeling misunderstood. So although it feels like self-sabotage, it’s really just an awkward, unfamiliar step towards self-preservation, but one coming from a place of love instead of fear.
the juggle of self-compassion
It might feel like you’ve been acting in ways that aren’t you. But the ways in which you’ve been choosing, and advocating for, yourself recently — they come from an inner knowing that you don’t have to explain to anyone.
This week is going to challenge you to maintain this inner strength, this inner curiosity around what happens when you give yourself permission to care for yourself. There’s a lot to juggle socially, and life might feel a little off the rails this week, as you are expected to pivot quickly between personal and collective responsibilities.
expect a little messiness
And look, you’re not going to get it all right every time. There will be times when you know what your mind and body need and are unable to meet those needs. That’s life — and you’re learning what it feels like to have your needs dismissed by the universe.
How do you react to that? What’s the narrative or harsh belief you’re falling back on? There’s a lesson there too. About no matter what happens externally, the skill you’re mastering right now is the ability to continue to maintain a consistent level of compassion, love, and respect for yourself.
It’s sticky week in terms of mood and energy. One minute you’re face planted on the sofa, the next you’re getting spiritual downloads and anchoring into new beliefs with instant clarity.
The best way through is to imagine those progress graphs that show the squiggly, non-linear nature of self-growth. The overall trajectory is going up and up, so ride out this week with all that newfound self respect and give yourself what you need, whenever you’re able.
If this resonated, and you’re looking for wider orientation, the 2026 energy map offers a look at the themes we’re all stepping into as a collective. If you want to avoid the traditional trappings of new year and, instead, do the deep work of actively facilitating your own becoming, this one’s for you.
Love you,
Fiona
x
Cards pulled: Strength, 2 of Pentacles, Knight of Pentacles
Tarot deck used: Queer Tarot by Ash & Jess
