Have you ever had that little voice in your head saying, “Something isn’t right,” but you chose to ignore it anyway? Maybe it was a relationship where you kept making excuses for someone’s behaviour, a friendship that left you emotionally drained, or a business partnership that never quite felt right. You noticed the signs, but you hoped things would get better.
Sounds familiar?
Sometimes, we ignore red flags not because we fail to see them, but because we desperately want things to work out.
Imagine a woman who falls for someone who seems perfect. He is charming, attentive, and makes her feel special. But gradually, he starts cancelling plans, avoiding conversations, and disappearing when she needs him. Her friends notice the pattern. She notices it, too. Yet, she tells herself, “He’s just busy. Maybe I’m expecting too much.”
Why do we do this?
Psychology explains. When we become emotionally attached to someone or something, we tend to focus on what supports our hopes and overlook what challenges them. This is called confirmation bias. In simple terms, we see what we want to believe.
And what about that uneasy feeling we sometimes get when something doesn’t add up?
That’s where intuition comes in. Our minds can pick up on subtle patterns—a change in someone’s behaviour, a repeated inconsistency, or a feeling of discomfort—before we consciously understand what’s bothering us. It’s worth paying attention to these feelings rather than dismissing them.
But recognising a red flag and accepting what it means are two very different things.
In my experience as a Tarot reader, I’ve found that people often seek answers about someone else, when the more important questions may be about themselves. Why am I holding on? What am I refusing to acknowledge? Am I listening to my intuition, or is my fear of losing this person getting in the way?
This is where Tarot can offer a fresh perspective. The Moon invites us to explore confusion and uncertainty, while the High Priestess reminds us to slow down and listen inwardly. The cards can act as a mirror, helping us reflect on feelings and patterns we may have overlooked.
My dear readers, intuition isn’t always right, and Tarot cannot establish another person’s intentions. We must look at facts and consistent behaviour, too.So, the next time something feels off, pause and ask yourself: Am I seeing this situation as it is, or as I wish it were? Sometimes, the red flag isn’t hard to spot. It’s just hard to accept.
“Your intuition whispers what your heart hopes isn’t true. Learn to listen before life has to repeat the lesson.” — Maanya Kohli
Written by Maanya Kohli, one of India’s most trusted Tarot readers and founder of Lady of Tarot.
