Spell Troubleshooting

We all have those times that we do a spell and for some reason something just isn't right. There's something that we haven't done correctly or we were so overcome with emotions that we forgot something entirely. Here is a small list of suggestions of things that you can do and check to make sure that things are in order.

MOON CYCLES
Keep track of what moon cycle we're in when you're going to do a spell. To some people this is a technicality when actually it is very important. How can you ask for the help of natures forces when you aren't working with her?

WATCH YOUR CANDLES!
Are you blowing out your candles? If you are this may be your problem. Wither snuff them out or allow them to burn themselves out. Candle snuffers are fairly inexpensive and are completely invaluable if you are squeamish about putting a flame out with your fingers. The thing here to remember is that by blowing out the candles you are mixing fire and air magic. Fire magic brings energy, passion and power whereas air magic brings peace, tranquility and calmness. The complete opposite. So together they cross out each other, hence, crossing out your spell. Also use a lighter to light the candles and not matches. Matches contain sulphur which is used in banishing spells.

FOR THE GOOD OF ALL
Remember the Rede and the three fold law. And don't forget that everything you do, both good and bad will come back to you times three. If for any reason you are unsure if it is for the good of all, don't do it. End spells by saying "if it be for the good of all, so mote it be". This protects you and all involved if the spell isn't meant for the good of all.

MEDITATE DAILY
Meditation is good for stress release, relaxation and connecting with your higher self. These are all things that are key to effective spell casting. If you can't relax, you can't concentrate. And if you can't concentrate on what you are doing, the spell isn't going to work. It's also advised to meditate before any castings. You can also ask the God and Goddess for assistance and guidance with any spell working problems that you are having while you meditate. Keep a journal of your meditations and see your progress.

HAVE CONFIDENCE
You need to have faith in what it is that you are doing. Have faith in your abilities. Otherwise it's not going to work. You're sending out negative thought energies by thinking that you messed up or that it isn't going to work. This mixes with what you put out there and hinders the positive energies from taking form.

ALWAYS WORK WITH THE MAGIC CIRCLE
Cast a circle for every magical work you do whether it's a simple candle spell, divination, whatever. You are calling spirits and energies for assistance and without any form of protection you can possibly have negative things enter your work too. Look at the circle as a security blanket for magic.

CLOCKWISE!!
Movements within the magic circle should always be in a clockwise motion. This includes casting, dancing and what ever other moving you will be doing. When uncasting the circle go counterclockwise.