Tapping into your Intuition: The Underrated Superpower

Have you ever had that unshakable feeling, where something seems off, even though logic tells you otherwise? Or maybe the opposite. An opportunity that doesn’t quite make sense on paper, but deep down, you know it’s the right move?

That’s your Intuition Speaking

In both leadership and life, we’re conditioned to rely on data, logic, and strategy to make decisions. We analyze reports, weigh pros and cons, and seek external validation. But some of the most pivotal moments, whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, come from something deeper: a gut instinct that cuts through the noise and points us toward the right path.

The best leaders and the most fulfilled people don’t just trust the facts; they trust themselves.

Why Intuition is an Essential Skill in Leadership and Life

Intuition isn’t about ignoring facts or making rash choices - it’s about combining experience, emotional intelligence, and pattern recognition to make decisions that align with who you are and what truly matters.

It’s the ability to sense the energy in a room, read between the lines in a conversation, and anticipate outcomes before they unfold. When honed, intuition becomes a powerful tool for making quick, aligned, and effective choices - especially when logic alone isn’t enough.

How to Recognize the Voice of Intuition

Your intuition often speaks in ways that are subtle but powerful.

Here’s how to recognize it:

• It’s steady and calm, not frantic or pressured. Intuition doesn’t yell, it nudges. It’s not driven by fear or urgency; it’s a quiet, confident sense of direction.

• It’s a deep sense of “knowing” without overthinking. Unlike doubt or hesitation, intuition often feels clear and resolute.

• It feels expansive, like doors opening rather than closing. If a choice feels constricting or forced, it might not be the right one. When it feels open and natural, your intuition is likely guiding you.

Developing Your Intuition - A Skill You Can Strengthen

Just like any leadership or personal skill, tapping into your intuition can be refined over time.

Here’s how: 

• Slow Down and Listen

In the rush of decision-making, intuition often gets drowned out by noise. Give yourself moments of stillness, whether through meditation, a morning walk, journaling, or simply pausing before reacting, to hear what your gut is telling you.

• Pay Attention to Patterns

Your intuition is built on experience. When you start noticing recurring themes in people, projects, or situations, your instincts become sharper. Ask yourself: What’s worked before? What gut feelings have I ignored in the past that turned out to be right?

• Differentiate Between Fear and Intuition

Fear is loud, urgent, and driven by doubt. Intuition is calm, clear, and directive. Learn to separate reactionary fear (What if I fail? What if this doesn’t work?) from the quiet certainty of your inner voice.

• Test and Trust

Start experimenting with smaller decisions—where does your gut lead you? Over time, as you see your instincts proving correct, you’ll build trust in your own wisdom.

• Balance Intuition with Logic

The best leaders, and the most confident individuals, don’t rely on just intuition or just logic. They integrate both. When intuition and reasoning align, you’re making a powerful, well-rounded decision.

When Tapping into Your Intuition Changed Everything

Think back to a moment when a decision didn’t make sense on paper but felt absolutely right, and turned out to be one of your best choices.

Maybe it was hiring someone who didn’t check all the traditional boxes but had an undeniable spark. Maybe it was pivoting your business or career at just the right time. Or maybe it was walking away from something that seemed perfect but felt completely wrong.

Great leadership, and a great life, isn’t just about making the smartest choice.

It’s about making the right choice. And sometimes, that means listening to the wisdom within.

Your Edge in Leadership (and in Life): Trusting Your Gut

Life and leadership are full of uncertainty. There will be moments when you don’t have all the answers and the data is inconclusive. In those moments, the strongest leaders, and the most fulfilled people, are the ones who have learned to trust themselves.

The question is - are you listening to your intuition?

Have you ever made a decision based purely on instinct? Drop your experience below ⬇️

About the Author

Deirdre Palm Adams is a fashion industry powerhouse, best-selling author, and business mentor with over 40 years of experience leading teams at top global brands.

As the founder of Love How Good You Feel, she empowers others to achieve wellness, success, and mindset transformation through heart-centered leadership and intentional living.

Known for her positivity and purpose-driven approach, Deirdre is dedicated to helping others shift their mindset, embrace opportunity, and create a life of abundance.