There's a certain near-mechanical perfection to working with a skilled team of individuals. Like a well-oiled machine, a coordinated unit works to finish one task with ease – this type of group will likely turn out their task with a far better result than if it were done by one person. Additionally, the members of this group will feel accomplished when they've finished, knowing that their product is worthy of the time, effort, and materials that went into it. This is the energy of the Three of Pentacles.

On this card, we see three people gathered around an arch (or perhaps a window) in a church or chapel – they seem to be working on an engraving in the stone. One of the men stands on a bench, listening to two older men who are holding a specific plan in their hands. The men are willing to work together to achieve a thing of beauty and usefulness. The three pentacles are etched out of the stonework above them - a testament to their hard work and perseverance.

This card is the card of projects. It signals that you are, or have plans to, start working on a large task. This isn't your run-of-the-mill project – it's something that will require a lot of effort, time, patience, and materials. Once it's done, it will all be worth the while... the real issue is getting it started. This project is large, and it might be too big for just one person to handle, so consider that when you're drawing up your plans.

This card may also signal that you are planning for a project. You might only be in the planning phase, but you know that the project is on the horizon, getting closer each day. Don't skimp on planning – make sure you have everything you need before you start, or you'll waste a lot of time and resources. Like the two men pouring over the plan on the card, see if you can get a second pair of eyes to look over your plans for any errors or anything you might have missed.

Team Work Makes the Dream Work

Lastly, this card may signify that you will be working with a team soon, one that is capable of getting the job done. This card doesn't also signify a team that is skilled and willing to work together, but it does more often than not. Your team will have the competence and wherewithal to set plans into motion – they won't simply sit at meetings to discuss what needs to be done, they'll be eager to go out and do it. Utilize this team if and when you can.

Here are a few questions to consider when analyzing the Three of Pentacles. What projects do you have on your plate? Are there any upcoming? Should there be? What preparation needs to be done before it can get started? What skilled people can you convince to work with you on this project?

Two other three cards are closely related to the Three of Pentacles – the Three of Cups and the Three of Wands. The Three of Cups is an obvious match for the Three of Pentacles – both have a lot to do with group mechanics, and the power that can come from a willing team/group. The Three of Wands has a lot to do with leadership, and forging ahead – something that is needed if you are to tackle the project that the Three of Pentacles speaks of.

What Three of Pentacles Means for You Today

When the Three of Pentacles shows up in your reading it can be a sign that your work life is about to come into focus. This could be a new job, project, or contract. This type of work involves other people and is not a solo venture. Teamwork will be required here and if you are lucky, your co-workers will be of like mind and you will be able to get the work done easily and efficiently. This card brings with it the feeling of 'the grind' and the work might not always be fun, but it will yield results that are greater than the sum of its parts. Depending upon your position among this group of workers, you may need to surrender control and follow someone else's plan.