Polite responses for people who think Tarot, Astrology, Reiki, and other mystical arts are “fake” and “stupid.”

“I don’t believe in that bullshit.”

“Do you really think that stuff works?”

“You don’t seriously believe in that, do you?”

“That new-age crap is silly. Only a fool would buy into it.”

Eye rolls followed by chuckles.

If you believe in Tarot, Astrology, Reiki or any mystical art for that matter, you can be sure that when you mention it, you’re going to get one of the rude responses above at one point or another. Sometimes, more often than you’d like. I often say that this comes with the territory.

Some people don’t get it, like it, or respect it.

And that can feel like kick in the gut if you are someone who does.

When someone criticizes your belief system – or profession – your knee-jerk reaction might be to get defensive, anger, scared, anxious, etc.

But instead of saying something you’ll later regret – or saying nothing at all – what if you could respond with a calm, polite statement that reinforces your professionalism and awesomeness?

The next time someone says something icky to you, try out this response:

“Huh, I’m sorry you feel that way. I feel differently. I think that [Astrology – or insert your craft here] is totally fun and fascinating. It’s a tradition that goes back for [thousands/hundreds] of years and I really love studying it. Are there any topics that totally fascinate you? What excites you these days?”

Or try a little humor:

“No biggie. Some people are into it, some aren’t. We all have our thing. For example, I’m not into sports. It’s never been my jam but to each their own. Hey, hand me that beer over there…I think that’s something we can both agree on.”

Or this short, simple statement:

“I’m sorry to hear that. But I understand. Not everyone is into it and I respect that because I respect different points of view. I hope you’ll respect mine too.”

These statements are brief, polite, and will help you to keep your Zen, no matter how rude the other person may be.

Always remember: no one has the right to belittle you for anything that you believe. But that doesn’t mean they won’t. Don’t engage with that negative energy. Stay on the high road and keep it classy. (I know you will.)

Blessings,

Theresa

More goodness:

When you’re dealing with a super-aggressive new-age hater: The Professional Mystic’s Guide to Dealing With Non-Believers

A variety of responses for skeptics, peers, obnoxious clients and more: What to say to people who try to shake your tarot confidence.

image from stock photography