Why Your Core Beliefs Matter More Than Your Spells

How Defining Your Spiritual Philosophy Protects You From Dogma and Shapes Your Entire Spiritual Journey

Spells Are Easy, Beliefs Are Hard

A spell works because you believe it works. That’s at the heart of the metaphysical explanation for magic, whether you’re talking about watered-down manifestation techniques or more advanced occult rituals. From there, we move on to ingredients, wordings, and spirits that can help your cause.

We don’t spend a lot of time discussing how your personal belief system doesn’t just affect individual spellwork, but determines where you begin with your spiritual journey. This is why I recommend including a Statement of Core Beliefs when you’re starting your Book of Shadows. It should be the first page.

Regardless of your religion — or lack of it — we all carry core beliefs about the universe, our ethical boundaries, and what we believe is possible.

For example, if you don’t believe your co-workers respect you enough to listen to you, how effective will a spell to get a promotion as their manager be? It might still work, depending on your approach, but it will take extra effort if you think it’s impossible to get certain people to see you as…