Is it a gut feeling, or anxious decision-making?

My mom and I call gut feelings "the knowing," because you don't have to think; your gut literally draws answers to you, specifically when you are in-tune with yourself.

You just know without having to think, or figure out why, "it" just is.

I feel as though gut feelings are considered "controversial" because we're told no one should base decisions on a hunch, but our hunch is our intrinsic and innate ability to determine potential threat, danger, something great coming...that’s what I believe.

Society has evolved so much, and naturally so have we.

Our instincts have morphed to our surroundings, to the hustle and bustle of the world, to the high stimuli, and profound grasp of information we can take with our finger tips.

This can create anxiety when we have to constantly make quick decisions especially now, with the world watching at any given moment since almost everyone has a phone and the ability to record almost every second to pass in time.

So this 'gut feeling' sounds unnecessary and silly based on all the logic and rational we have available to "help us" make decisions.

My relationship with the 'A' monster.

I've always had anxiety and even though I'm very good at keeping my composure, it's something I learn how to balance within myself and improve in my everyday life.

One thing that's really helpful for me is (now) understanding the difference between knowing when I'm making a decision based on my anxiety (and feeling like I have to make a decision ASAP, or else) vs. going into my core self and choosing something for me because it's what's best for me (and knowing I'm allowed time to make that decision).

Period.

The Gut.

The choice is "easy" when it's your gut, and it usually works out for you when you go with that gut feeling with good intention and good energy—because things are as it's "intended" to be.

You went toward that thing, situation, or issue in a balanced manner seeking your truth as the answer, so that is what you get back in return—and you believe this, so it happens.

You feel a weight lift from your shoulders, you feel free, content, at peace—but that doesn't mean whatever it is you're doing/decided won't come with uncomfortable growth—

—whatever your gut feeling(s) share, are truth, and so you become balanced and content with what that truth is...overtime.

The 'A' Monster.

The 'A' Monster, Anxiety, causes the decision making that can make you feel rushed, incompetent, chaotic...

And, you can spot the difference between these feelings and gut feelings because anxious decision making comes with a whole lot of well...uneasy energy.

Anxiety doesn't live alone, it's paired with other emotions:

1. Sadness, hopelessness

2. Doubt, feelings of inadequacy

3. Confusion, unsettled feelings

4. Insecure decision making

5. Or, feeling insecure about your final decision

And, whenever you're confused and insecure, you feel as though you cannot make the best decision (this is how you know outside influences can be seeping in).

So, I always find it important to channel my inner voice in a space where I can be alone—

—(in a separate room, the bathroom, anywhere where the energy I'm feeling is solely my own) to make decisions that may be difficult.

Sometimes advice from others is counter productive.

We all have to give ourself a chance to know that we can trust that we have what it takes to make the best decision for ourselves.

Questions to ask yourself before making a decision.

Before asking myself any questions, I like to remind myself, I don't have to respond right away. No matter the situation, it's okay to say you 'don't know' or you have to 'take a second' to figure things out. Give yourself at least a second, breathe.

Then check-in with yourself.

1. Is this what I want for myself, or is my decision influenced by how others will react?

2. What will bring me peace?

   1. I know this may be easier said than done, since sometimes the decision you make for yourself will cause things to change and change may bring different reactions and steps to planning for a different future outcome.

   2. But in the end, will YOU feel at peace with the decision YOU made?

3. What decision would I make if I didn't have to worry about others thoughts, judgements, or ideas about my decision?

What things are you realizing are your truth? What do you deserve? How will you give yourself space to make the decision best for you and reduce anxiety?

Remember, you DO deserve to take a breath and make choices based on what feels right for you.

Until next time,