Research Isn't Everything... #GetLit

So hear me out... Whilst doing research and reading books etc is important and really does help a witch out, you can rely on it too much. As a new witch or pagan this may be confusing for you to read, but I hope by the end of the post you will understand why I think this. Of course, this is just my opinion - you are all entitled to yours.

When you first step into the magickal world of witchcraft you will be told to research. Research, research, research. I tell people this all the time. I do believe that in order to get yourself started, whether you're a 'new' witch learning, or an 'old' witch developing, research is key. However, I also believe that once you have the basics down, what you DO is more important.

Sure, for anyone to learn how to do something, research is important, and it does have it's place. But so does [safe] experimentation, so does intuition, and so does 'feeling' your own way.

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:sparkles: Experimentation :sparkles:

Nobody is perfect. Not everything goes right all the time. And that's ok! If you have used the books and the information to work out some of the 'basics' - how herbs can be used, what colours mean, which crystals are good for _____, how sigils can be drawn, which God/Goddess is relates to _____, what the different Sabbats are (etc) - you can use that basis to then experiment. Try using crystals, herbs, sigils etc in different ways, combine/use them together to find what works best for you. Experiment with ways to channel your energy and intention in different ways. You don't need to buy a load of books and follow every step they say for every spell they suggest!

For example, I learnt what crystals, herbs and colours were used for, and then from there I use them in my ways. I learnt what Sabbats were and some of each of their corresponding tools/activities etc, and then I create my own associations and celebrations. I change it up - sometimes I'm more successful than others. Sometimes things work, other times they don't. If they don't, I just spend time reflecting and then try something different next time!

, although experimentation is suggested, it should be done in a *safe* way - always read up on safety if you are unsure!

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:sparkles: Intuition :sparkles:

Something feels right? Do it! You don't relate to something you see in a book - change it! It is ok to not agree with what it says in a book (or any resource). If something inside you says that you don't relate to what is said, consider what you would relate to it, and then proceed. What your intuition is telling you matters! Just because it is written in black and white in a book, does not mean that you have to follow it. In my experience, a lot of developing yourself as a pagan or witch involves discovering yourself and where you fit in the world. This includes what you believe in the realm of magick, witchcraft and/or paganism.

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:sparkles: Feel Your Own Way :sparkles:

By 'feeling your way' I mean, instead of rushing to the books, take a step back, use what you do know, and then proceed. Put your own steps together and forge your own path.

But it doesn't say that in the book. So what? If you relate one crystal to a certain property that isn't written in the literature, use it for that reason. I can't find a herb for _____. And? Use your power as a witch and your intention to focus on a herb YOU associate with that meaning. It can take a little time to get used to working like this, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. Don't throw all the research out, but use it as a stepping stone to creating your own craft.

In my opinion, planning is what helps most here, not how much you from a book. If you spend time planning out your practice, you can use your intuition, along with what you know and find your way through. As with experimentation, things may not always go how you want them to, but use that, learn from it, and develop your working from there.

Also, if you prefer to watch other witches, on YouTube for example, feeling your way could also mean separating your practice from theirs. I must it, I don't watch videos about witchcraft/paganism on YouTube, but I know how involved people can get with the content creators. Therefore, in order to feel your own way, it is important to recognise that what you are viewing is THEIR path. You need to make your own. By all means, take ideas from them, but try not to get into the position where you are re-creating every word they say. Be true to yourself, take a step back, realise that is their world, and take some time to make your own!

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:sparkles: Summary :sparkles:

Books and resources, without a doubt have their place. This is especially true when you are starting out, or when you want to do some in-depth research on topics. BUT! Don't over rely on them. Don't get caught up in the trap of running to the books for every little thing. Use them for reference, but you don't need to follow everything they say, not if it doesn't feel right.

It is also important to say that there will be certain areas of paganism or witchcraft that do follow set guidelines etc. It is up to YOU what you want to do, if in your early research that feels right to you - follow them! But, if you want to carve your own journey, think about taking a step back from the books and other resources! :blush:

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#YouDoYou