Why Your Spell Jars Aren’t Working (And How to Fix Them Without Guessing)

I used to follow all the steps — pick the herbs, write the intention, light the candle — but nothing ever seemed to shift.

The spell jar would sit on my altar collecting dust while I was still stuck in the same patterns: still broke, still stressed, still waiting for something to change.

And if you’ve felt that too? You’re not doing it wrong. You’re just missing structure.

Problem #1: Your Intention Isn’t Clear

The #1 reason spell jars don’t “work” is because the energy behind them is too vague.

Spells like “bring me abundance” or “help me feel better” might sound fine — but they don’t give your magic a clear place to go. Magic works best when it knows what it’s aiming for.

Try this instead: Before starting a ritual, write one sentence describing exactly what you want to shift. Be specific and grounded. For example:

• “I want to feel calm and safe in my home again.”
• “I want to bring in one new income stream this month.”
• “I want clarity around my next step.”

Your jar should support that goal — not just look pretty on your shelf.

Problem #2: Your Ingredients Don’t Align

Throwing in random herbs or crystals “because they’re pretty” is tempting, but not helpful. Every ingredient in a spell jar holds energy — and when the energy is scattered, the outcome is too.

Try this instead: Choose 1 to 2 ingredients that directly match your goal. Then ask yourself:

• What does this herb actually represent?
• Does it support what I’m asking for?
• How do I feel when I hold or smell it?

One well-matched herb with a clear purpose is more powerful than a dozen thrown in “just in case.”

Bonus Tip: Don’t Skip the Activation

A spell jar is more than a container — it’s a conversation. Once you’ve built it, you need to activate the energy inside.

You don’t need anything fancy. Just:

• Hold the jar and say your intention out loud
• Seal it with a breath, a chant, or a flame
• Place it somewhere meaningful (not hidden in a drawer!)

Let it become part of your energetic space — not just a craft project.

Want Step-by-Step Rituals You Don’t Have to Overthink?

If you’ve been second-guessing your rituals, or you’re craving something simple and clear — I created something for you.

It’s filled with the exact spell jars I use in my own practice — each with a clear purpose, matching ingredients, and built-in activation steps.

No pressure, no fluff — just real rituals that support your energy when you need it most.

Your magic isn’t broken. You just needed something that makes it feel real again.