2012 is a significant year for its many astrological changes and anomalies.  This is a year of transition for our planet and the individuals on it.

Any spells cast during 2012 are likely to be more powerful.  You can make your witchcraft hyper-powerful by planning your spells according to the stars, the planets, and the phases of the moon.  Other influences — such as correspondences — can help, too.

Here’s what you need to remember, so you don’t make long-lasting mistakes with your spells in 2012.

First, remember that spells are very literal.  It’s smart to write your spells first.  Remove all slang, and any dramatic expressions you don’t mean, literally.

For example, if you want a certain person to leave you alone, say something like, “I want [person's full name] to stay away from me, and for him/her to have no negative influence in my life or in the lives of those close to me.”  Do not say something like, “I want [person's name] to fall off the face of the earth.  He/she is dead to me.”

Never cast a spell on another that asks for something you wouldn’t want to happen to you.  If the target of your spell is using a mirror spell, or other protection that returns the spell — as received — back at the sender… well, the outcome could be tragic.

Never cast a spell on behalf of someone else.  Generally, the outcome is something that teaches you a lesson about meddling in others’ lives.  It’s usually significant enough to haunt you for the rest of your life.   Instead, tell that person to cast his or her own spells, and leave you out of it.   One of many reasons why people choose earth-based and Pagan spirituality is this:  We believe that we have direct access to Deity. We don’t need a priest or other intermediary as the go-between, to commune with our gods and goddesses.  Even our priests and priestesses are primarily organizers and teachers.  So, don’t set yourself up as the go-between by using magick on behalf of others.  Instead, empower them by instructing them or pointing them to good resources.

If you want something

As the moon increases in size (waxes), cast to attract whatever it is.

Remember these two important points:

1. Cast only for your own experience.  Never cast spells that attempt to control or influence others.  So, you can cast for a happy relationship with someone like an individual, but not to attract that specific individual.
2. Always add “An it harm none,” and “So mote it be” when you conclude your spell.  The first is insurance against damage you hadn’t planned to inflict. The second is voicing your trust that Deity will honor your requests and act in your best interests.

Then, during the next full moon (and the day before and after it), celebrate the imminent arrival of whatever you’ve wished (or cast) for.  Thank Deity (or the Deities) for the blessings you’ve already received, and for their gracious help in bringing you what you’ve asked for.

Always act in confidence — with perfect faith and trust — that Deity is/are working on your desires right now.

Remember: If you keep digging up planted seeds to see if they’re starting to grow yet, you’ll kill the plant.  Faith is an important part of your spells. Trust that Deity will bring you the experience (the essence) of what you’ve cast for, at the very best time for you to receive it.

If you need to banish something

As the moon decreases in size (wanes), cast to eliminate lack, weaknesses, and disappointment in general.

If something is bothering you and it needs to leave your life experience as soon as possible, cast to remove or lift it during the waning (decreasing) moon.

Remember also to ask for what you’d like to replace it.  Never cast to remove something and stop there.  That could create a vacuum and attract even worse things to you.  Always ask for a specific experience to replace what you’re sending away.

When someone is doing something harmful to you or to others, cast for Justice instead of using a spell (or a binding) to stop that person.  You don’t personally need to inflict pain or suffering on another person.  If it’s an appropriate outcome for that person, Deity (or the Universe, if you prefer) will send that to him or her without your assistance or even your request.

2012 is a very powerful year of transformation and change for all of us.  The power is there.  Put it to good use by casting spells and using magick responsibly, consciously, and in accordance with the powers within your reach during this landmark year.