Discernment. 5 Tips to Trust Your Gut.

There are many opportunities to be more discerning these days. A lot is coming at us, at all times, in all directions. A LOT. Here are a few situations I’ve heard from clients recently:

• An accomplished biotech leader and overachiever got fired. She knew something was up when her boss usurped her by taking credit for her accomplishments.

• A tech founder met a potential investor who didn’t “smell right.” He agreed to the terms even though he knew he wanted smart money.
• A CEO bent over backward to accommodate his top client by dropping the price of his software. His client then reduced his number of licenses by half.

• When a home buyer met the real estate developer, her intuition told her he was slimy. Instead of listening to her gut, she signed the contract anyway.

A common theme I heard from these clients:

“I know better.” “How could I let that happen?” "I should have left earlier." “How can I trust my decisions?”?

They berated themselves for “the mistake” they made. These disempowering thoughts only contributed to an erosion of self-confidence and increased self-doubt.

The conversations made me think of one of my own experiences.

After my corporate gig in Silicon Valley, I joined a technology start-up as VP of Sales. I started on a Monday and by that Friday, I knew I had made a big mistake.?

I signed on having responsibility for global sales but on the first day, my responsibilities were slimmed down to the U.S. market. To add to the mix, the founder/CEO was inexperienced and wanted to control everything and everyone. Instead of accepting the situation and admitting I made the wrong choice, I told myself, “I can do this.” “I can make this work.”?

By not listening to my intuition and cutting my losses early, I forfeited my well-being and what I value to make it “work”. I was miserable and put myself through a ton of undue mental and emotional turmoil before I cut the cord.

The truth is, our gut is always right. If we are aware and listen, there are telltale signs before we embark on a new job, partnership, or relationship. The information is often in front of us, yet we don't see it or choose to ignore it.

5 Tips to Trust Your Gut

1. Slow Down. You don’t have to rush into a decision. There will always be people who will try to influence you to decide before you are ready.
2. Do your analysis, and gather data to make an informed decision. Ask lots of questions. Dot your I’s and cross your T's.
3. Listen to your head, heart, and gut. Do you trust this person or situation? What emotions are coming up?
4. Don’t fall into the fear trap. “There are 5 other offers.” “What if I lose the customer?” “What if I can’t find another job?” Classic “lack” mentality.
5. Be clear on your non-negotiables, and what you’re not willing to compromise on. That way, you’ll be clear on when to walk.

It’s up to us to develop our discernment muscles and learn from our experiences.

If you're feeling disempowered from a recent situation and need a sounding board, sign up for a Clarity Call with me.