Which Should Rule – the Heart or the Mind?
Have you ever experienced the frustration when your emotions tell you one thing, and your mind tells you another? Being pulled in different directions, what is the best decision for you?
Whether you opt to start a side hustle, pursue a career you’ve talked about, or take a relationship to the next level, how do you be certain yourr decision is the right?
A study shows that humans often based their decisions on a combination of logic and emotion. The top three decisions people mentioned as being best made with their rational thinking are purchasing a house, retiring, and switching jobs. On average, 88% of people follow their logical minds when making career-related decisions.
Today’s generations are greatly influenced by the culture of following their dreams and passions. The phrase “do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life” may sound inspiring to some and cliché to others. However, this advice of following your heart may not fit everyone, especially if one ends up with empty pockets. Hence, many people lean toward rational decision making in their careers.
On the other hand, the top three decisions that people believe as best made with one’s heart are choosing a romantic partner, a vacation spot, or pursuing a dream.
While following your rational mind may yield greater tangible results, following your heart is significantly more likely to enhance personal fulfillment and satisfaction.
But with the multitude of thoughts and emotions, how can you discern whether your decisions are guided by your heart or your mind?
Signs that your decisions are driven by the heart:
- Decisions guided by emotions or gut feelings.
- Finding yourself gravitating towards decisions that ignite your passion.
- Having boundless zest and energy towards the decision made.
- Feeling good, satisfied, and at peace after doing it.
- Decisions aligned with your personal values.
- Decisions made based on what you truly want, instead of what feels comfortable.
- A resounding YES in your gut feeling rather than an uncertain, hesitant response.
- Making decisions based on positive emotions and motivation, rather than fear and doubts.
Signs that your decisions are driven by the logical mind:
- Decisions guided by logic, reasoning, and careful analysis.
- Evaluating perspectives objectively, based on facts, data, or reflections from past experiences.
- Making decisions based on a sense of stability and security, using logical reasoning to minimize risks and maximize benefits.
The way we make decisions may evolve throughout our lives or depend on the specific circumstances, but regardless of preference, there is no universally right or wrong method.
While it is alright for emotions to influence many of our thoughts and actions, it is important to make. conscious decisions driven by love, compassion, and trust, rather than fear or anger.
When it comes to pivotal Iife-altering decisions, it is equally crucial to gather the facts appropriately.
Life is about actively choosing who you want to be and mindfully taking action to bring you closer to who you are. May you find peace in every decision you make.
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