Four of Pentacles as Career Advice (Upright & Reversed) Tarot Card Meaning

The Four of Pentacles is the card of insecurity, jealousy, possessiveness, stinginess, boundaries, and guardedness. This card depicts a man clutching many pentacles close to his body. His arms and feet are locked defensively in a closed stance. He acts as if he believes that someone is going to rob him at any second. He is guarded and does not trust others. 

The Four of Pentacles reminds us that boundaries are important to healthy relationships, but sometimes insecurity can take our boundaries too far. When we have our guard up to the point of paranoia and jealousy, we deprive ourselves of the ability to give and receive love and emotional support. The Four of Pentacles is a reminder that love should be freely given and that possessiveness can destroy relationships.

Upright Four of Pentacles as Career Advice

If you are asking for career advice, and you draw the Four of Pentacles, it suggests that you’re too guarded. You’ve been staring down at people from the tip of your nose because you feel defensive about yourself. This guarded attitude is something that can steer your career in the wrong direction as it may be closing some opportunities to you before you even have the chance to receive them. 

If you are asking for financial advice, the Four of Pentacles means you’ve been scared of losing money. It may stem from some kind of deeply-rooted insecurity. You’re too afraid to use your funds to welcome more blessings into your life, but if you never step out of your comfort zone then you’ll never achieve the things that you’re dreaming of. Let go of the fear and insecurity inside of you. You’re a smart person who can make good decisions, so just trust yourself a little.

For those starting a new job, the Four of Pentacles means you’ve been very defensive with your new coworkers and environment. You’re intentionally pushing them away as you’re afraid that something bad is going to happen if you let them into your bubble. Remember that true success will never come if you shun people. Your negative personality is bringing down morale and will ultimately become an obstacle to your growth. 

For those wondering about their current job, the Four of Pentacles means that you’re trying your best not to show that you’ve been feeling weighed down by it. Your feelings may be rooted in reality, or it’s possible that you’re just in dire need of a break from everything. Try to detach yourself from those negative emotions of jealousy from your coworkers and just focus on yourself. If it gets too much then just remember that everyone needs a break sometimes. 

If you are asking about whether or not you should switch industries, the Four of Pentacles means that you’re entertaining these thoughts because you’re unhappy with what you’ve accomplished so far. You’ve noticed other people soar higher than you when you put in just the same amount of effort as them. You’re good at what you do, there’s no doubt about it, but the major issue here lies in your attitude toward things. Shift your perspective before trying to shift industries, you’ll be surprised at how much will change. 

For those interested in starting a business, the Four of Pentacles means that you aren’t in the right headspace to enter a business right now. It seems that the only reason you want to do this is because you’re jealous of what other people were able to achieve when they started their business. That’s not the right mindset to have if you want to set yourself up for success. Do some necessary shadow work before attempting to set out on a business venture. 

Reversed Four of Pentacles as Career Advice

If you are asking for career advice, and you draw the Four of Pentacles reversed, it suggests that you’re beginning a new chapter of your life. You used to view your career as something that was gray and lacked life, but now, you’re feeling refreshed and everything excites you once more. You’ve unblocked your energy and are ready to take on the world. This is a great sign that your career is about to take off!

If you are asking for financial advice, the Four of Pentacles reversed means that you’re now healing from some stressful financial situations. Things are about to look up, so don’t spend all your time worrying about your next paycheck. Not to mention, if you have any investments that you’re worried about, you’ll start seeing some returns. 

For those starting a new job, the Four of Pentacles reversed means you’re ready to embrace this new chance with open arms. You used to feel concerned about starting a new job as you were worried that you wouldn’t fit in or that your new environment would be too harsh for you, but now, you’ve changed your perspective and you’re ready to go full steam ahead. This is a good sign for your career.

For those wondering about their current job, the Four of Pentacles reversed means that you’ve let go of any past baggage that’s been holding you back. You weren’t able to give your job your best efforts because something was holding you back, but now that’s all changed. You’re ready to rebuild relationships and put your best foot forward.

If you are asking about whether or not you should switch industries, the Four of Pentacles reversed means you know how to establish your boundaries, so it’s completely possible that you’ve reached your limit and you want to try something new for once. You want to move on from the past, and that includes your previous industry. Welcome this change with open arms because it will surely be a good thing for you. 

For those interested in starting a business, the Four of Pentacles reversed means that you’re ready to let go of the past and focus on the future, and in your head, that future includes starting a new business. You’ve already done all the healing you needed to and you’re ready to begin this new journey with a clean slate. You’ve got a positive mindset and it definitely shows.

Conclusion

For careers, the Four of Pentacles represents insecurity and jealousy. While it’s natural to want to be the best at what you do, it can be counterproductive to take that drive too far. This can be a detriment and burden to your career. If you find yourself having these feelings, ask yourself where it is coming from and if it is based on reality. 

If you find yourself needing further clarity in your career matters that go beyond reading for yourself, Sibyl offers unlimited tarot readings on career and finances, as a neutral and objective third party.