You’re at a crossroads and your mind is loud.

Part of you wants certainty, the other part is tired of overthinking. What you’re really asking is: Is this fear…or is this my intuition?

Here’s a gentle, body-led way to tell the difference—so you can make a real choice and move.

What fear feels like

Fear is protective. It shows up fast and loud—buzzy chest, tight jaw, shallow breath, racing thoughts. It demands a perfect answer right now and offers long stories about worst-case scenarios. If you follow fear, you’ll notice your body stays agitated even after you “decide.”

What intuition feels like

Intuition is quieter but steady. It usually lands as a short sentence you could write down. Your breath deepens a touch. Your shoulders drop 2%. You may still feel nerves, but there’s a sense of rightness or inner coherence.

A simple way to tell them apart

1. Regulate first. Feet on the floor. Inhale 4, exhale 6 for ten rounds.

2. Speak each option out loud. “I accept the offer.” (pause) “I decline the offer.”

3. Scan the body. Chest, throat, jaw, belly, back. Open vs. tight? Heat vs. steadiness?

4. Write three words for each option. Choose the path that feels steadier, not necessarily easier.

24-hour test

Give each option one day in your imagination. Fear mutates—new worries, new proofs. Intuition repeats the same message with calm persistence.

Values check

Name three values you’re growing into (e.g., integrity, health, creative impact). Ask: Which option moves me closer—even if it stretches me? Intuition tracks alignment, not comfort.

When both feel bad

Clarify the pain: growth pain (effortful + alive) vs misalignment pain (heavy + contracting). If both contract, design one change that would make staying workable. If it’s not possible, honor that truth.

Cultural & family layers (for my Latinas and first-gen readers)

Many of us were taught to be loyal, prove ourselves, and push through. Those values helped us survive—and they can also keep us in rooms we’ve outgrown. Bringing your nervous system into the conversation lets you choose yourself without rebellion—just clarity.

Tiny yeses (this week)

• Two 20-minute informational conversations.

• Renegotiate one key need with your manager.

• Test a boundary for one day (no Slack after 6pm, focus block, or a “no” you’ve been avoiding).

• If quitting is on the table, create a 3-month runway draft.

Bottom line

Intuition won’t always feel comfortable, but it will feel coherent. Fear shouts for safety right now; intuition guides you toward who you’re becoming.

FAQ

How do I know I’m not mixing trauma with intuition?
Regulate first. If the message steadies after you calm your body, you’re closer to intuition. If urgency spikes or the message disappears, you’re in a protective state—go slower and add support.

Can intuition ask me to do hard things?
Yes. You may feel nerves, but there’s a small exhale, a tiny sense of relief: this is honest.

What if people disagree with my gut?
Collect input, but let your body have a vote. Validate your intuition with a tiny test instead of seeking unanimous approval.

Want help sorting the noise from the quiet truth?
Book a Decide With Confidence session for a calm, 1:1 process that ends with one clear next step.