Table of Contents
The Three of Wands signals progress, vision, and planning beyond your current horizon. It invites you to look forward, consider expansion, and prepare for new ventures with confidence and optimism.
Key Takeaways
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This section covers the main tarot card meanings and interpretations of the Three of Wands.
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In reversed position, it signals delays, frustration, or self-doubt about your path.
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In love, it often highlights long-distance connection and emotional growth potential.
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A minor arcana card of foresight, expansion, and calculated moves into the unknown.
Upright Three of Wands Meaning
The upright Three of Wands represents progress through preparation. As an upright tarot card, it means you are entering a phase of growth, where the Three of Wands signifies successful planning, forward movement, and the promise of positive results.
It often appears in a tarot reading when you’re ready to step outside your comfort zone and explore new directions. The wands upright encourage you to expand your horizons, seek adventure, and embrace the opportunities that come with broadening your perspective.
If you’re considering working abroad, a new partnership, or investing in long-term goals, the upright position of this wands card signals new opportunities and the chance to achieve more in life. The upright position means you are ready to expand and achieve your goals.
Reversed Three of Wands Meaning
The Three of Wands reversed can show stagnation, creative blockages, or disillusionment. Maybe you feel stuck or frustrated that things aren’t moving forward. This card can also indicate feeling frustrated with your current job, especially if you are experiencing a lack of progress or dissatisfaction in your work environment.
It might relate to a failed long distance relationship, missed opportunity offered abroad, or poorly executed plans involving a wand card. Revisit your approach and adjust expectations.
This reversed card encourages self-awareness. Obstacles and setbacks can be valuable learning opportunities, and if you accept the lessons they bring, you may discover a new opportunity for growth. Strengthen your foundation before trying to leap ahead again.
Three of Wands in Love Readings
In love, the Three of Wands reveals emotional growth through space and time. This card often points to a long distance relationship or one requiring patience.
Upright, it reflects shared vision, emotional expansion, and future planning. The Three of Wands can also indicate a relationship moving into the next phase, such as greater commitment or planning for the life ahead. Reversed, it may suggest misalignment or emotional immaturity holding you back.
Support love’s growth with emotional intelligence and trust. Healthy boundaries and honesty are key when distance is a factor. Connecting with like minded individuals can also support emotional growth in relationships.
Three of Wands for Business and Career
This card thrives in career spreads. It symbolizes entrepreneurial energy, international opportunity, and a clear path forward.
It might suggest pitching globally, launching something new, or considering a job offer in a foreign land. The Three of Wands can also indicate exploring a job abroad or looking to expand your business internationally. Expansion is the theme—just ensure solid planning.
When reversed, the warning is about ignoring your instincts or skipping the risk assessment. When pursuing global opportunities, it’s crucial to adequately prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Don’t rush growth—strategize for sustainability.
Three of Wands Symbols and Visual Interpretation
Visually, the Three of Wands tarot card description features a man standing on a hill, gazing out over the sea, with three sturdy wands planted firmly behind him. The imagery in this tarot deck card symbolizes exploration, planning, and self-belief, with the wands representing grounding, intention, and the drive to move forward.
The imagery conveys patience, vision, and alignment with the broader world. When the wands appears in a tarot deck reading, it often highlights self confidence, suggesting that you are ready to embrace new opportunities and trust in your abilities. This wands tarot card meaning is about readiness—an internal sense that success is possible and probable.
It also reflects themes of personal development and trusting that your energy is being well-invested.
Three of Wands Yes or No Guidance
When used in yes or no questions, the Three of Wands is a soft yes—especially if your plans involve travel, growth, or expansion. This card encourages you to embrace change when considering new ventures.
It’s a signal that your vision is sound, but execution matters. Reversed, it leans toward a cautious no. More clarity and planning are needed before continuing, and it's important to take proper precautions before making major decisions or travel plans.
Tap into positivity and confidence, and recheck the map before launching into your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Three of Wands represent?
It represents expansion, global thinking, and the desire to move forward confidently. It’s a sign of progress through preparation. In a tarot card reading, the 3 of wands often signifies new opportunities, journeys, and the anticipation of future growth.
What is the message of the Three of Wands?
The card encourages you to embrace the unknown while staying grounded. Success comes when action is paired with strategic foresight.
What is the advice of the Three of Wands?
Keep looking ahead, but remain realistic. Use your self belief and vision to prepare—not just dream.
Is the Three of Wands a yes or no card?
Generally, yes—if plans are thought out. In reversed form, it’s a “not yet,” urging you to pause and rethink.
What does the Three of Wands reversed mean in relationships?
It may indicate unresolved frustrations or a long distance relationship losing steam. Focus on communication and emotional maturity.
How does the Three of Wands relate to travel or moving?
This card often suggests travel overseas), particularly for work or self-discovery. Reversed, it warns of delays or missteps.
Related Tarot Insights
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Learn about all tarot cards
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Explore the symbolism of the major arcana
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Discover different tarot decks
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Deepen your practice with a tarot reading
- Gain clarity with our free tarot reader service.
Mantra: I embrace new experiences and trust the unfolding of my journey.
References
The Way of Tarot | Alejandro Jodorowsky, Archive.org
The Marseille Tarot Revealed A Complete Guide to Symbolism, Meanings & Methods | Yoav Ben-Dov
The Pictorial Key to the Tarot | Arthur Edward Waite
Disclaimer
The contents of this article are provided for informational purposes only. Take what resonates with you and leave behind anything that doesn't. Anahana is not liable for any interpretations, insights, or outcomes that may arise from using the information provided.

By: Natalia Ramirez
Natalia completed her educational journey at the DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, earning a Bachelor of Commerce in 2019. Her academic excellence was recognized with her inclusion on the Dean's List for three consecutive years, a testament to her dedication and outstanding performance throughout her studies.