I recently read an article by Rebel Brown about why you should trust your intuition. She explains how “that gut feeling,” officially known as “implicit memory,” is a scientifically proven fact.
You see, implicit memory (or our gut instinct) is comprised of information that our brain stores every day without us even knowing it. And although we aren’t consciously processing the knowledge, it’s still there in the back of our minds.
Therefore, as Brown explains, “when our unconscious senses a situation where this implicit information is valuable — it calls it up and shares it with our conscious mind.”
In other words, the “gut feeling” that we get in certain situations actually stems from information that our minds have unconsciously gathered over time.
So whether you start experiencing vivid dreams or you start getting that uncomfortable feeling in the pit of your stomach, chances are, your intuition is trying to share some information with you.
But how do you know what it’s saying? How can you tune in and start listening to your gut?
That’s what we’re going to explore today. So keep reading and learn 3 easy ways to trust your intuition with confidence.
3 Ways to Trust Your Intuition
Step Away and Reflect
If you’re faced with a difficult decision, allow yourself time to reflect on the situation.
First, step away from the topic at hand. Go for a walk, enjoy a cup of tea, or meditate to clear your mind. There is no need to focus on the problem specifically; the important thing is giving your brain space to wander.
Once you’ve had that space, it’s time for reflection. Remember, these “gut feelings” are coming from our implicit memory, so reflecting gives them time to come to the foreground. I prefer doing this through journaling, but feel free to use whatever method works best for you.
As you reflect, hone in on your different (possibly contrasting) feelings, and ask yourself what you truly want. Are there certain things that make you feel hesitant or uncomfortable? If so, why? Does your heart soar at the thought of a new opportunity or possibility? Why is that?
Angela Jia Kim offers eight great questions to help you reflect on your gut feelings in several different situations. They include:
- “Am I going toward an adventure or running from fear?”
- “Do I feel good around this person or choice?”
- “Does this person or situation give me or take my energy?”
- “Do I feel empowered or disempowered?”
- “Am I listening to my lessons learned from the past?”
- “Would I make the same choice if I had a million dollars in my pocket now?”
- “Do I feel respected and valued?”
- “Am I trying to control the situation or am I leaving room for expansion?”
So as you contemplate your gut instinct, keep these valuable questions in mind.
Listen to Your Body’s Signals
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to blaze through our hectic days without tuning in to our bodies. Of course, this is not an ideal situation when trying to trust our intuition.
So, what can we do?
S-l-o-w D-o-w-n.
Start paying attention to those brief thoughts or feelings you experience throughout the day.
As Liz Ryan advises, “let no squeak or twinge go unaddressed…Pause and reflect on the message your intuition sent you. You will never go wrong listening to your powerful body!”
What Would You Tell A Friend?
This is one of my favorite strategies because it is both straightforward and effective. If you’re facing a difficult decision, but you’re struggling to trust your intuition, consider how you’d advise a close friend in the same situation.
This approach is successful because it gives you that valuable outside perspective. It helps you step back and see the forest amidst the trees.
So, next time you feel that familiar twinge in your gut, take a few minutes and tune in. Reflect on the situation, and listen to your body’s signals. Chances are, your intuition has something to say that’s worth hearing.
Question:
Do you trust your intuition often? How do you know when to trust your intuition? Do you tend to follow your head or your heart? Let me know below!
