What To Do When a Spell Doesn't Work

June 24, 2025

How to Harness Magic and the Law of Attraction to Overcome Discouragement

Magic, like life itself, doesn't always unfold as planned. If you've dabbled in the mystical practice for a while, you probably know that not every spell or intention blazes into life the way you'd hoped. That can be disheartening, especially when you're seeking profound changes in key areas of your life, whether it’s career, finances, or relationships.

If you’ve felt this kind of discouragement, you’re not alone. The good news? These moments are not roadblocks but opportunities to adjust, refine, and reaffirm your intentions. This blog post will serve as your guide to troubleshooting and supercharging your magical intentions, while weaving in the wisdom of both magic and the law of attraction.

Why Does Magic (Sometimes) Feel Like It Doesn’t Work?

Magic, at its core, is about shaping and shifting reality. But, as with surfing, it requires balance and effort. Paddling too much or not enough, missing the wave, or forcing the board in the wrong direction all lead to wipeouts. Similarly, magic requires effort, flow, and willingness to adjust.

When you face closed doors in your practice, it’s easy to feel disheartened, forgetting that even setbacks can lead to your desired destination. The key lies in perspective, persistence, and refining your magical and practical approach.

3 Self-Assessment Questions to Troubleshoot Your Intentions

When your spells seem to fizzle, a quick self-assessment can help recalibrate your energy and focus. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Can I Try a Different Type of Magic?

Different goals call for varied approaches. For instance, a quick, high-energy candle spell might be perfect for a short-term goal but fall flat for an outcome requiring consistent effort over time, like finding a new job. For long-term desires, consider daily practices such as working with spiritual oils, wearing talismans, or repeating affirmations.

Example:

Working on attracting steady work? Try anointing yourself daily with a “Steady Work” oil or carrying a talisman aligned with career growth.

2. Am I Taking Action on a Material Level?

Magic isn’t about sitting back and waiting for outcomes. If you’re casting spells for a job, ask yourself:

Are you updating your resume?
Applying to relevant positions?
Leveraging your network?

Magic amplifies effort but doesn’t replace it. Align your actions with your intention to send a clear message to the universe.

3. Is My Intention Clear and Balanced?

Being too vague or hyper-specific can thwart your magic. For example, writing “I want work” might manifest an unexpected responsibility at the school bake sale instead of a professional position. Conversely, aiming exclusively for a position as the CEO of a specific company may be so narrow that it narrows other opportunities too.

Instead, aim for a “sweet spot” of clarity. Articulate your desires while leaving room for things to unfold in aligned, unexpected ways.

3 Techniques to Refine Your Intentions

When refining your approach, try these methods to set yourself up for magical success:

1. Craft an Intentional Contract with the Universe

One of the most potent mental shifts involves working with the mantra, “A closed door is as valuable as an open door.” Before setting your intentions, meditate on the belief that barriers can save you from investing effort in paths that may not serve your highest good. Trust the flow, knowing the universe often protects you from outcomes that might not truly align with your happiness.

2. Write Petitions That Focus on Qualities, Not Just Names

Instead of centering your spell on a specific person, place, or job, focus on the qualities you want to attract. For instance:

Instead of “I want John Jones to be my partner,” write, “I want a loving, supportive partner who values communication, trust, and romance.”

This approach keeps your intention open while inviting aligned opportunities. If John Jones isn’t the one, the universe will guide you to someone even better.

3. Never Forget These 3 Words

Add the phrase “or something better” to your petition papers and spells. These words create room for the universe to deliver beyond your expectations.

For example, if you’re manifesting work, your petition might read, “I attract a steady income of $X per month in a supportive environment near my home, or something better.”

These words open the door to opportunities you may not have even considered, like remote work or a windfall that negates your need for steady employment.

How to Stay Positive When Results Seem Distant

Even the best intentions sometimes take time to brew. If you’re faced with discouragement, here are key mindsets to maintain your flow of positivity:

1. Reframe How You Interpret Challenges

Borrow wisdom from the Taoist Farmer parable. Whether good news or bad, strive to reserve judgment. Missed opportunities, disappointments, or delays may actually contain the seeds of your eventual success.

2. Maintain Vigilance Over Your Thoughts

Guard your mental and emotional energy after performing spellwork. Occasional doubtful thoughts won’t undo your magic, but it’s crucial to avoid fixating on negativity. Shift self-doubt with constructive phrases like:

“This is an adventure. Let’s see where it leads.”
“The universe is aligning things perfectly for me right now.”

3. Say Gratitude-Powered Affirmations

Gratitude amplifies the flow of good. Celebrate small victories and express thanks for what’s already progressing in your life. Positive energy lifts your vibration and attracts opportunities.

Trust the Wave and Ride It

Spells and manifestations aren’t about forcing an outcome or giving up after one attempt. They’re about riding life’s collective waves, consciously adjusting your direction when necessary while trusting that the universe has your best interests at heart.

When things seem stuck or discouraging, remember that every closed door is a step closer to the one that will open and lead you to your “magical party.” If the door doesn’t budge, don’t force it or dwell on it. Move on to the next, paddle hard, and prepare to ride the wave that carries you to where you’re meant to be.