Do you ever have a gut feeling about something but dismiss it as irrational or illogical? It’s time to start listening to that little voice inside of you — your intuition. Your intuition is your inner guidance system, providing insights and information beyond your conscious understanding. 

It’s a powerful tool to use to make decisions, take action, and advocate for yourself. Your intuition is connected to your subconscious mind, which holds a wealth of knowledge and information that your conscious mind may not be aware of. By tapping into this inner wisdom, you better understand your needs, desires, and boundaries. This knowledge is crucial when it comes to advocating for yourself, whether it’s in your personal or professional life. 

When you listen to your intuition, you’re better able to:

• Identify When Something Doesn’t Feel Right – Your intuition alerts you to situations or people that may not have your best interests in mind. By paying attention to your instincts, you avoid potential harm or danger.
• Make Decisions that Align with Your Values – Your intuition allows you to stay true to yourself and your beliefs. It guides you towards choices that align with your core values rather than what others may expect from you.
• Trust Yourself – Listening to your intuition builds self-confidence and trust in your own judgment. It also develops a more positive relationship with yourself.

If you’re not used to paying attention to your intuition, it may take some practice to tune in. 

Here are some practical ways to start listening to your inner guidance:

Slow Down

Give yourself a break every day, taking time to settle your thoughts and connect to your body. You may find solace in meditation, deep breathing, or sitting still.

Pay Attention to Your Physical Sensations

Your intuition often communicates through physical sensations, such as a knot in your stomach or a feeling of lightness. Notice how your body reacts in different situations and what that may be telling you.

Journal 

Writing is a powerful tool for accessing your intuition. Try free-writing for a few minutes each day without censoring or editing your thoughts. You may be surprised at what’s up.

Practice Making Small Decisions Based on Your Intuition

Start by asking yourself simple questions throughout the day, such as “What do I feel like eating for lunch?” or “Should I take this phone call now or later?” Notice how your intuition responds and honor those responses.

Your intuition is a powerful ally in self-advocacy but requires practice and trust to fully utilize it. Paying attention to your inner guidance, making decisions that align with your values and needs, and advocating for yourself more effectively becomes much simpler. When you have a gut feeling about something, take a moment to listen. Your intuition might have the answers you’ve been looking for.