Leaders are always expected to make effective decisions, manage multiple tasks and meet complex challenges. One essential skill is often overlooked: the ability to listen—not just to others, but to ourselves. This listening involves paying attention to both our body’s signals and our rational mind, creating a harmonious balance between intuition and logic.
As I have written many times, our bodies are constantly receiving and processing information. We might feel a tightness in our chest, something in our stomach or a sudden sense of calm. These sensations are body’s way of communicating with us. They are sometimes reminders to stay grounded and remain in a state of peace. Other times, they warn us and perhaps indicate that someone isn’t communicating openly or hiding something from us.
Leaders are accustomed to making decisions based on facts, data and analysis. This approach is crucial when creating strategies or solving problems. And it often works well. However, there are times when the logic is different than what our body is telling us.
So, the question is: Which should we trust—our body or our mind?
The answer is not straightforward because it depends on the situation. The key is playing with both elements—testing the results. By observing results, we start to understand how to integrate these two parts more effectively.
Ignoring either the body or the mind can lead to imbalanced decisions.
Leaders who dismiss intuition may make choices that, although logically smart, lack deeper values or feelings. On the other hand, those who neglect rationality may make impulsive decisions that aren’t grounded in reality.
The most effective leaders are those who don’t ignore any part of themselves. They listen deeply—to their bodies, their minds and to the world around them.
Balance is always the key.
