Welcome to “Winning Pond,” the newsletter that explores the mysteries of tarot and astrology while offering unique personal development exercises and challenges. I believe that we are here to create our dream reality, whatever that means for you.
NOTE: All newsletters can be found on WinningPond.com as well as exclusive articles, my favorite books & tarot decks.
“The most effective way to change your habits is to focus not on what you want to achieve, but on who you wish to become.”
James Clear “Atomic Habits”
😱In 2023 we have 7 planets going Retrograde at once:
Retrogrades are a time of going within & really focusing on all of the “RE” words: Renew, Reflect, Rest, Rebirth
- Venus Retrograde (July 23-Sept 4) happening in the sign of Leo making this a time to reflect, rekindle & transform your passions.
- Mercury Retrograde (Aug 24-Sept 16) happening in the sign of Virgo. Mercury is the planet of communication, and with the detail oriented sign of Virgo, this is a great time to refine your communication and execute precise decisions.
- Pluto Retrograde (May 11 – Oct 22) happening in the sign of Aquarius. This is where you reclaim your personal power and prioritize your purpose.
- Saturn Retrograde (June 18 – Nov 4) happening in the sign of Pisces. This will push you to question your beliefs & let go of limiting beliefs. This is an excellent time to refine your daily rituals & self-care routines.
- Neptune Retrograde (July 1 – Dec 6) happening in the sign of Pisces. Expect your intuition to be on fire, so developing self-trust is crucial at this time.
- Jupiter Retrograde (Sept 5 – Dec 31) in the sign of Taurus. Make sure that your values are aligned with your goals. Taking steady action towards what you want to create will bring a lot of success. Don’t overindulge during this time.
- Uranus Retrograde (August 29 – Jan 27) retrograde in Taurus. This is a time to break free from any stagnant routines and make changes on both micro and macro levels. Explore new solutions and find a healthy balance of rebellion.
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The 7-planet retrograde of 2023 brings with it challenges, but also valuable opportunities for growth and self-reflection. By understanding the influence of each retrograde and embracing the medicine of each planet, we can navigate this astrological event with clarity and purpose. More than ever we need to look at our belief systems, our deepest desires, and our daily practices as we move through these times. Brace yourself, because the planets are about to take us on a cosmic journey of self-discovery and transformation. But don’t worry, I’ve got the secret sauce for your energy covered in all of your readings on Minnow Pond Tarot!
Here are all of the BONUS READINGS FOR AUGUST. I recommend watching your Sun Moon & Rising signs for a complete picture of your energy at this time.
🌟Habit vs. Routine: Spotting the Difference🌟
Today, let’s dive into the fascinating world of habits and routines, and I must confess, one of my all-time favorite books that opened my eyes to the power of incremental progress is Atomic Habits by James Clear. You know, it’s all about those tiny 1% improvements we make every day that add up over time. Pretty cool, right? So, let’s explore the difference between habits and routines and discover the power they hold in our lives.
“It’s about making micro adjustments, one habit at a time, to build a routine that inevitably leads to success in any area of your life.”Â
So, what sets habits apart from routines? Well, habits are those actions we do without even thinking, like washing our hands after using the bathroom or buckling up when we get into a car. On the other hand, routines are carefully crafted sequences of habits that we do in a specific order. They are like a chain of habits that bring structure to our lives.
Now, why should we embrace a routine? There are countless reasons! First, it boosts self-care and healing. Routines create a solid foundation to prioritize self-care rituals and give ourselves time to heal and rejuvenate. They provide stability in a changing world, acting as a reliable anchor that offers a sense of familiarity. Plus, following a routine consistently brings a continuous sense of accomplishment, boosting our confidence and motivation. And let’s not forget that by infusing healthy habits into our routine, such as exercise, balanced meals, and quality sleep, we pave the way for a healthier lifestyle.
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But how can we unleash the power of routines? Here are some tips to get you started:
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- Start small and take it easy. No need to rush! Remember, it’s about those micro adjustments.
- Keep your motivation and the quote from James Clear in mind. Remember why you embarked on this journey and stay focused.
- Be compassionate with yourself. Setbacks are inevitable, but they are part of the process. Just pick yourself up and keep going.
- Find a routine buddy. Having someone to share your progress and keep each other motivated can make a world of difference.
- Use habit trackers or reminder notes to visualize your progress. Seeing how far you’ve come can be incredibly motivating.
- And most importantly, celebrate and reward yourself for each accomplished week! Recognize your efforts and give yourself a pat on the back.
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By incorporating these strategies, you’ll create a solid routine that supports your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Remember, it’s all about those micro adjustments, one habit at a time, that inevitably lead to success in any area of your life.So, let’s embrace the power of routines and make every day count!
🌟Intuitive Insights🌟
👇Click your zodiac sign to watch your readings👇
​ ARIES (March 21 – April 19)
Your fiery spirit and determination are your greatest strengths. Embrace your passion, take risks, and chase after your dreams fearlessly. Remember, you have the power to make amazing things happen!
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​ TAURUS (April 20 – May 20)
Your grounded nature and strong work ethic make you a force to be reckoned with. Trust in your abilities, stay focused on your goals, and create a solid foundation for success. Your perseverance will lead you to greatness.
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​ GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)
Your intelligence and adaptability shine brightly. Embrace your curiosity, explore new ideas, and let your charm and wit dazzle those around you. Your ability to communicate will open doors of opportunity.
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​ CANCER (June 21 – July 22)
Your nurturing and empathetic nature is a gift to the world. Embrace your intuition, create strong emotional connections, and trust in your instincts. Your compassion will guide you towards making a positive impact.
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​ LEO (July 23 – August 22)
Your confidence and charisma are boundless. Embrace your inner leader, pursue your passions with vigor, and let your radiant energy light up the world. Remember, you have the power to inspire those around you.
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​ VIRGO (August 23 – September 22)
Your attention to detail and analytical mind are your superpowers. Embrace your perfectionism, channel your energy into organization and problem-solving, and strive for excellence. Your practicality will lead you to greatness.
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​ LIBRA (September 23 – October 22)
Your charm and diplomacy are your keys to success. Embrace your harmonious nature, seek balance in all aspects of life, and use your natural grace to build bridges and foster positive relationships. Your fairness will be admired by many.
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​ SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21)
Your intensity and determination set you apart. Embrace your inner power, dive deep into your passions, and embrace transformation. Your fearless pursuit of truth and your emotional depth make you truly extraordinary.
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​ SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21)
Your adventurous spirit and optimistic outlook make life an exciting journey. Embrace your thirst for knowledge, explore the world fearlessly, and let your infectious enthusiasm inspire those around you. Your free spirit is a gift.
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​ CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19)
Your ambition and determination are unparalleled. Embrace your disciplined nature, set ambitious goals, and work diligently towards them. Your perseverance and unwavering focus will lead you to remarkable success.
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​ AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18)
Your originality and humanitarian values make you a true visionary. Embrace your unique perspective, champion social causes, and let your innovation shape a better world. Your forward-thinking nature is a catalyst for change.
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​ PISCES (February 19 – March 20)
Your compassion and creativity illuminate the world. Embrace your intuition, embrace your artistic abilities, and let your imagination soar. Your ability to connect deeply with others brings comfort and inspiration to those around you.
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Click Here to find your AUGUST BONUS readings. I recommend watching your Sun Moon & Rising signs for a complete picture of your energy at this time.
Thank you everybody, and enjoy your week!
Let’s Make a Dent on the Universe, together!
~ Chris Reck
