In a world full of distractions, doubts, and external influences, it’s easy to second-guess ourselves. So, how do you reconnect with that inner voice and learn to trust your gut instinct? Here are seven gentle and encouraging ways to do just that.
WHAT IS YOUR GUT INSTINCT AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Have you ever had a feeling deep inside that told you something was right – or wrong -before you had any concrete proof? That’s your gut instinct speaking, and learning to trust it can be one of the most powerful skills you develop. Your intuition is like an internal compass, guiding you towards decisions that align with your values, experiences, and subconscious knowledge.
There have been many times in my life when I’ve had to make a difficult decision. From relationships to moving home, to sending my kids to a different school to leaving a job I’d loved for over a decade.
There’s a balance and sometimes an internal conflict between our head and our heart when it comes to decision-making so my go-to guide has also been to trust my gut instinct – and, thus far, it’s never-failed me.
Without a crystal ball we can’t predict what’s ahead but we can make mindful decisions based on the here and now with an eye to the future. This, for me, is why I think it’s important to trust your gut instinct. In this article, I’m exploring how and why to trust YOUR gut instinct.
7 WAYS TO TRUST YOUR GUT INSTINCT
In a world full of distractions, doubts, and external influences, it’s easy to second-guess ourselves. So, how do you reconnect with that inner voice and learn to trust your gut instinct? Here are seven gentle and encouraging ways to do just that.
1. Listen to Your Body’s Signals
Your body often knows the truth before your mind does. Pay attention to how you physically react to situations and decisions. Do you feel a tightness in your chest, a sense of unease, or a sudden rush of energy? These sensations are clues from your nervous system.
A gut feeling isn’t always a dramatic moment of clarity – it can be subtle, like a quiet nudge or a sense of comfort when something is right. Start noticing these physical cues such as the symptoms of burnout, and over time, you’ll learn to interpret them as signs of intuition.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Stillness
When life is noisy and chaotic, your inner voice can be drowned out by external opinions, fear, and overthinking. Taking time for mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or even a simple walk in nature can help you tune in to your gut instinct.
Try setting aside a few minutes each day to sit quietly and check in with yourself. Ask, “How do I really feel about this situation?” Without distractions, your intuition has a better chance to rise to the surface.
To learn more about mindfulness and simplicity, you might enjoy this article on the relationship between minimalism and mindfulness.
3. Reflect on Past Experiences
Think back to times when you trusted your gut – what happened? Did you make a decision that led you in the right direction? Alternatively, can you recall moments when you ignored your instincts and later regretted it?
Keeping a journal of these experiences can be incredibly useful. Writing down past situations where your intuition proved to be right will build your confidence in trusting it again in the future.
4. Distinguish Between Fear and Intuition
One of the biggest challenges in trusting your gut is knowing the difference between intuition and fear. Fear often comes with overthinking, anxiety, and a racing mind. Intuition, on the other hand, tends to feel calmer and more certain – even if it’s telling you something difficult.
If you’re unsure whether you’re feeling fear or intuition, take a deep breath and observe the sensation. Fear often has a frantic, negative energy, while intuition is more like a steady, quiet knowing.
5. Start Small and Build Trust
If trusting your gut feels daunting, start with small decisions. Instead of agonising over what to have for lunch, see if your instinct leans towards one option more than another. If you meet someone new and feel a strong pull towards (or away from) them, notice that feeling without judgement.
By regularly practising this with minor choices, you’ll develop the confidence to rely on your intuition for bigger life decisions, such as career moves or relationships.
If you’re curious how I began to live more intentionally, you might enjoy this article on the 5 decisions that inspired my intentional life.
6. Limit Outside Influences
We live in a world where we’re constantly bombarded with advice, opinions, and social media comparisons. While it’s good to seek guidance, too many outside voices can drown out your own intuition.
Try reducing the noise by taking breaks and a digital detox from social media, limiting the number of people you ask for advice, and spending more time with your own thoughts. The more space you create for yourself, the easier it will be to hear and trust your inner wisdom.
7. Give Yourself Permission to Be Wrong
Part of trusting your gut is accepting that sometimes you’ll make mistakes – and that’s okay. Intuition isn’t about always being right; it’s about learning and growing. Even if a decision doesn’t lead where you expected, it doesn’t mean your gut was wrong. It may have guided you towards an important lesson or experience that will serve you in the long run.
Be kind to yourself and understand that intuition is like a muscle – the more you use it, the stronger and more reliable it becomes.
CONCLUSION
Trusting your gut instinct is about reconnecting with yourself, your values and building confidence in your own inner wisdom. I’ve found it won’t always be easy, and sometimes doubt will creep in, but with practice, patience, and self-compassion, you can develop a deep trust in your intuition.
So next time you feel that quiet nudge, listen to it. Your intuition is there to guide you – trust it, and trust yourself.
When was the last time you listened to your gut instinct and how did that response feel and look like? I’d love to hear from you so please leave a comment below.
Here are some more intentional living articles which you might enjoy:
- 7 Ways to Cultivate a More Meaningful Life
- How to Enjoy the Little Things In Life
- The Psychology of Simplicity and How It Affects Us Every Day
- 7 Steps to Living a Life Without Regret
- 7 Ways to Enjoy Living Life in the Slow Lane
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Antonia Colins is the creator of Balance Through Simplicity, a website helping busy people declutter their home and life and live more intentionally. She has over 20 years of personal and professional experience in juggling work and family life and supporting individuals to remain independent and enjoy their home more. In her spare time, you can find Antonia walking, reading or planning her next travel adventure! She lives in the UK with her husband and teenage kids. Get your free Declutter Starter Kit.