In tarot, The Wheel of Fortune is often seen as a card of destiny, cycles, and change. When upright, it symbolizes the unpredictable shifts of life that bring opportunities for growth and success. However, when reversed, this card takes on a more challenging tone, representing setbacks, resistance to change, or the feeling of being stuck in an unfavorable cycle.
As an obstacle, The Wheel of Fortune reversed can manifest in many aspects of life, including love, career, health, and personal growth. It signals a time when external forces seem to work against you, leaving you feeling powerless or out of sync with your goals. The key to navigating this energy lies in recognizing its lessons and finding ways to adapt, learn, and grow through the challenges it presents.

The Wheel of Fortune Reversed as an Obstacle in Love and Relationships
When The Wheel of Fortune appears reversed in a love or relationship reading, it signifies a lack of harmony and the feeling of being trapped in cycles of misfortune or miscommunication. Relationships may feel stagnant or riddled with bad timing, leaving you questioning whether things will ever move forward.
For singles, this card can represent a period where potential connections fail to materialize, or where repeated patterns of past relationships seem to resurface. In new relationships, it suggests a struggle to align intentions or overcome early challenges. For those in existing relationships, the reversed Wheel indicates that external pressures or unresolved issues may create tension. When asking about getting back together with an ex-partner, this card suggests that unresolved patterns or timing might hinder reconciliation.
To overcome these obstacles, consider examining patterns in your relationships. Are you holding on to unrealistic expectations or clinging to cycles that no longer serve you? Focus on cultivating patience and openness to change, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to break free from the wheel entirely and create a new path.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed as an Obstacle in Career and Business
In career and business, The Wheel of Fortune reversed signifies setbacks, missed opportunities, or a sense of being stuck in a professional rut. It may indicate external factors, such as economic downturns or workplace politics, that hinder progress despite your best efforts.
Starting a new job under the influence of this card might involve unexpected challenges, such as unclear expectations or difficulty fitting into the company culture. In current employment, it can point to stagnation, lack of recognition, or missed promotions. If you’re considering a career change, The Wheel of Fortune reversed warns of uncertainty or poor timing. For those starting a new business, this card highlights the need to be cautious with investments and to prepare for unforeseen obstacles.
To navigate these challenges, focus on adaptability and resilience. Reevaluate your goals and strategies to identify areas where you can regain control. Remember that setbacks often carry valuable lessons, helping you build the skills and perspective needed for long-term success.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed as an Obstacle in Health
In health readings, The Wheel of Fortune reversed suggests a period of instability or recurring issues. You may feel as though you’re going in circles with a condition, making progress only to experience setbacks. This card can also point to external factors, such as stress or environmental influences, that impact your well-being.
Physically, it might indicate difficulty in healing or managing chronic conditions. Mentally, the reversed Wheel reflects cycles of anxiety or negative thought patterns that keep you from finding balance. This energy may also signify a lack of control over your health due to unforeseen circumstances or poor timing in seeking treatment.
To overcome these challenges, focus on consistency and small, manageable steps toward better health. Seek professional advice when needed, and consider incorporating practices that help you feel grounded and in control, such as mindfulness or regular routines. Acknowledging the cyclical nature of health can help you approach setbacks with patience and determination.
The Wheel of Fortune Reversed as an Obstacle in Spirituality and Personal Development
The Wheel of Fortune reversed in spirituality and personal development suggests obstacles to growth, alignment, or manifesting abundance. You may feel disconnected from your spiritual goals or struggle to make progress despite your efforts.
This card often highlights resistance to change or a tendency to cling to familiar but unproductive patterns. It can also point to external influences that disrupt your focus or shake your belief in your ability to achieve your goals. These obstacles can leave you feeling frustrated, as though the universe is working against you.
To overcome these challenges, embrace the opportunity to reflect on your current path and identify areas for growth. Consider whether you are resisting necessary changes or overlooking lessons that could help you realign with your higher purpose. By shifting your perspective and staying open to new possibilities, you can turn obstacles into stepping stones for spiritual and personal advancement.
Practical Tips for Working with The Wheel of Fortune Reversed as an Obstacle
When faced with The Wheel of Fortune reversed, the key is to focus on what you can control and develop resilience in the face of adversity. Start by identifying patterns in your life that may be holding you back. Are there habits, relationships, or beliefs that you need to release? Journaling or self-reflection can help you uncover these insights.
Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques to stay present and manage feelings of frustration or helplessness. Set small, achievable goals to regain a sense of progress, even during challenging times. If external factors seem to block your path, focus on building flexibility and adaptability, so you can pivot when needed.
Finally, remember that obstacles often carry valuable lessons. By approaching challenges with a growth mindset, you can transform setbacks into opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. The Wheel of Fortune reversed reminds you that change is inevitable, but your response to it can shape your destiny.