If it feels wrong…It probably is wrong

If it feels wrong…It probably is wrong. 

Did you ever get that feeling? You know, the one where something doesn’t feel quite right? Your gut is talking to you but you choose to ignore it and proceed. How often was your gut correct? When will we learn to trust that feeling?

That feeling inside us does not appear for no reason. It is kind of like we are being given a warning sign that something is off. Our brains are constantly processing information.  That “gut” feeling is some sort of recognition from our brains. Our brain is telling us to take a pause. Perhaps it is from a past experience. It could be that our bodies sense something is just not right. According to Healthline.com A “gut” feeling can show up in various ways:

• A flash of clarity
• Tension or tightness in your body
• Goosebumps or a prickling sensation
• Butterflies or stomach nausea
• Sweaty palms/feet
• A sense of returning to a specific place or situation
• After you have made your decision, a sense of peace or calmness

What should we do when we get one of these signs? Why should we trust our gut? There is science behind trusting your gut. In an article published in Harvard Business Review, written by Melody Wilding, she states: “While it’s true that intuition can be fallible, studies show that pairing gut feelings with analytical thinking helps you make better, faster, and more accurate decisions and gives you more confidence in your choices than relying on intellect alone.” 

When it comes to acts of leadership and communication, trust your gut. Your past experiences and continued learning will allow you to proceed with confidence. Our past experiences chat it up with our brain and our gut to help us process good decisions. Past experiences are real and will guide you in your future actions. 

All of that said, as a leader, if it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. Take a pause. Consider other options. Leaders must make decisions based on both logic and emotion. To leave out either is not giving an honest, well-thought out decision. The logic in our decision is the science, the facts, the rational reactions. However, to exclude emotion is to make a decision without consideration of how that decision may impact others. 

A great leader understands how to weigh all information: logical and emotional. Great leaders can take the information and make the best decisions by trusting their brain and their gut. 

Those great decisions are the best for the employees and the business. Learn to trust your gut. It is giving you signs for a reason. 

Remember:  If it feels wrong…it probably is wrong.