In tarot, the Six of Wands is a beacon of victory, recognition, and progress after adversity. It carries the energy of triumph, not as a random stroke of luck, but as the result of focused effort and unwavering determination. This card serves as a reminder that success is not just external—it is deeply tied to your internal alignment, sense of purpose, and ability to find your center even in challenging times.

The Symbolism of the Six of Wands

In traditional tarot imagery, the Six of Wands often depicts a figure riding a horse, holding a wand adorned with a laurel wreath. Around them, a crowd celebrates their victory. The wreath symbolizes achievement and honor, while the horse represents forward momentum and strength. The onlookers’ cheers highlight that success doesn’t occur in isolation—it involves both personal effort and the support of a community.

However, the celebration isn’t just about external accolades; it’s about the internal journey that brought you here. The Six of Wands invites reflection on the battles you’ve fought and the resilience that has guided you through.

Overcoming Hardship: The Journey

Victory often follows a period of hardship. The Six of Wands doesn’t exist without the struggles symbolized by earlier cards, like the Five of Wands, which represents conflict and competition. To move from struggle to success, you must first confront chaos, self-doubt, or external obstacles.

But how do you move beyond the noise of hardship? By finding your center.

Your center is your reason, your “why.” It’s the inner compass that keeps you grounded when everything else feels uncertain. For some, it might be a passion or goal that fuels their drive. For others, it’s a connection to their values, community, or a sense of higher purpose. Whatever it is, the Six of Wands reminds you to return to this center whenever you feel lost.

Finding Your Reason and Center

1. Pause and Reflect

When chaos arises, it’s tempting to react immediately. Instead, pause. Reflect on your goals and the deeper motivations behind them. What is driving you forward? What do you truly value?

2. Reconnect with Your Inner Self

Meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature can help you quiet external distractions and reconnect with your inner truth. This connection strengthens your resolve and keeps you grounded in your purpose.

3. Acknowledge Your Progress

Sometimes, hardship overshadows how far you’ve already come. The Six of Wands invites you to celebrate small victories along the way. Recognizing progress builds momentum and strengthens your belief in your ability to overcome.

4. Seek Support

The crowd in the Six of Wands reminds us of the power of community. Lean on those who believe in you—friends, mentors, or loved ones—when the journey feels overwhelming.

The Message of the Six of Wands

Ultimately, the Six of Wands is not just about external success but about the inner strength and clarity that make victory possible. It reminds you that every hardship holds the potential for growth, and every challenge can deepen your connection to your center. When you embody the energy of the Six of Wands, you’re not just celebrating a win—you’re celebrating the resilience, focus, and purpose that carried you through. The card is a testament to your ability to overcome, guided by the light of your reason and the power of your center.

So the next time you feel defeated, remember: your victory lies not just in the outcome but in the way you rise, reconnect, and continue forward. Embodying the energy of the Six of Wands promises that triumph is possible when you stay aligned with your purpose and believe in your strength; even if you have to face seemingly insurmountable odds in order to climb out of the other side.

Triumph Through Hardship by Finding Your Center: An Exercise with the 6 of Wands