The Seven of Swords is a Minor Arcana tarot card. Tarot cards are used for playing games in much of Europe, but in English-speaking countries, they are mainly used for divination.
The Seven of Swords is a tarot card representing lies, deceit, treachery, dishonesty, scheming, and a lack of conscience. Other meanings of this card include psychological manipulation, strategy, plotting, cunning, foes who pose as allies, and spies in your camp. When it appears upright, it suggests that someone is using underhanded methods to achieve their goals. It can also mean someone is being manipulative, deceitful, or tricky in gaining an advantage.
If the Seven of Swords represents another person in a reading, it can be a warning to be on guard. It could mean someone is trying to take advantage, manipulate or deceive you.
Manipulation is considered a dishonest form of social influence: the act of controlling or swaying someone to get what you want in an underhanded, dishonest, deceptive, fraudulent, shady, covert, crooked, undercover or clandestine way. People are often unaware that they are being manipulated because it’s done in a way that conceals the manipulator’s intentions. Manipulators are good at reading people’s emotions and use that skill to take advantage of their weaknesses.
Some examples of manipulative behavior include:
- Withholding: Withholding information, affection, or sex to punish someone
- Isolation: Cutting off contact with friends and family to isolate someone from people who might notice the manipulation
- Devaluing and gaslighting: Making someone feel guilty or confused to make them doubt themselves
- Fear or violence: Threatening to leave, hurt someone, or hurt themselves to keep them under control
Here are some ways to avoid manipulation:
Be assertive: Stand up for your interests while respecting the other person’s needs. Use “I” statements to be direct and specific about what you want.
Set boundaries: Communicate what you find acceptable and what you don’t.
Stay neutral: Avoid giving the manipulator the drama they thrive on. Respond neutrally, or avoid eye contact or making long answers.
Take a moment: Pause before agreeing to anything, and consider what you want to do.
Don’t personalize: Remember that manipulation concerns the other person and their inability to meet their needs.
Listen with empathy: Identify the other person’s needs or wants.
Talk to someone: Discuss your concerns with a trusted friend or family member.
Learn to say “no”: You can always change your mind.
Be aware of flattery: Flattery is often used as a manipulative tactic.
Be aware of blaming: Blaming you for the other person’s feelings is a manipulation tactic.
How can I stop being manipulative?
Here are some steps to help you stop manipulating others: Self-reflection: Take time to understand why you manipulate others. Reflect on your motivations and the feelings that drive this behavior. Journaling can help clarify your thoughts. Acknowledge Impact: Consider how your manipulation affects others.
Recognizing manipulation is a crucial defense. While nobody is immune, understanding that it’s happening can lessen its impact. The Seven of Swords is a lesson in both trust and self-communication. When we read the Seven of Swords as advice, we are told to look for the truth in the situation and not just take things as they appear. Educate yourself on logical fallacies, seek diverse viewpoints and practice mindfulness.
WE&P by: EZorrillaMc.
Travel in Life 
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