
You’re probably well acquainted with that feeling you get in your belly when you are sure of something, whether you’re sure it’s good or sure it’s bad. Trusting those instincts can be hard because your gut often tells you something very different from what your brain or heart tell you.
However, there’s science behind trusting your gut and there are several times when it’s best to follow your gut and ignore the rest. It might be hard, but you’ll be so glad you did it.
Something’s Wrong With Your Body
Doctors confirm that when patients say they are dying, they are often right. You know your body and therefore know intuitively when something is wrong, even if you can’t put your finger on what’s going on. If your gut is telling you that something is off, it pays to see your doctor. If you suddenly have a change in appetite, mood or sleep habits and worry that something is going on inside your body, make an appointment to have a checkup. If there is something going on, you want to catch it early and start treating it as soon as possible.
You’re In Danger
You know that hair rising on the back of your neck feeling that tells you danger is near. You should never ignore that. Most people can detect whether a person is dangerous within the first few seconds of meeting him or her. If something doesn’t feel right, do what you can do to remove yourself from the situation as soon as possible. Likewise, if you feel danger in a certain situation or you feel like you should avoid a person or place, follow what your gut is telling you and don’t call yourself silly and forge ahead. When your gut says, “danger,” listen closely.
Someone Needs Your Help
We all see that beggar on the highway or the kid walking home alone in the dark. Sometimes, your gut tells you to stop and help. While you should be cautious, your gut is probably right and you need to offer assistance. Biology drives your ability to read a person’s cues, allowing you to detect if someone needs help subconsciously. Follow those instincts because they are usually right. Often, your gut will spur you to help, even if someone hasn’t asked you to. Offer anyway, say the experts. You’ll be so glad you did.
You Know You Can Do It
When you try something new, you can usually tell if you’re going to excel or not. If your gut is telling you that you can do it, it pays to keep at it and reach your goal. Instead of letting your mind take over and deter you, listen to your gut. Subconsciously, you know when you have the ability needed to do something and biology will tell you if you should keep going or give up. This is definitely one time when listening to your gut is the right thing to do. Before you know it, you’ll be an ace soccer player or you’ll be playing your piano like Mozart.
When Something Feels Right
Just like you can tell when a person or situation is dangerous, your gut will also tell you when a person or situation is right. Whether you’re trying to meet a new partner, you’re looking for a job or contemplating a move, if your gut says, “go for it,” you can usually trust that intuition. Ignoring it can lead to you to make decisions you’ll regret down the road.
Trusting your gut is a skill that people must work on to get it just right. Often, people tell themselves that they should make the logical choice and write off the power that your gut gives you. Next time, try listening to your gut and you are sure to be happy with the results.