Do you believe in those little messages you've heard about in the movies? You know, the ones portrayed by either a little angel trying to give you good advice on one shoulder, or a little devil trying to lead you astray from the other?
Some have said that that little voice led them to making a doctor's appointment, only to discover that the doctor's news had been received just in time to avoid a much more devastating consequence later down the line. Others have changed plans, switched meetings, or not moved forward with plans, knowing something just "didn't feel right," and, later they learned that that hesitation or change of plans had saved them from a dire result.
While some would call this an example of extrasensory perception (ESP), it has also simply been called listening to your intuition. Hearing what your innermost being has to say. Trusting what you really feel and think deep inside.
The next time you're unsure of a course of action, or a direction to take in your life, try giving yourself some quiet time and ask yourself some questions.
- Is this something I really feel is right for me to do, or is it something I feel is expected of me?
- Is this action or activity in alignment with my personal ethics, and values?
- Would anyone be negatively impacted by my plans, and is this something I still feel would be the right course of action?
- If my actions were displayed for all the world to see, would I still feel this was the best thing to do?
- How will I feel about myself if I do this? How will I feel about myself if I don't?
La Rue Eppler, author and coach, discusses six ways inner feelings or experiences may choose to display themselves:
- A time frozen in your memory that you recognize as highly significant
- A sense of time slowing down or speeding up during a significant event
- An intense motivation to take certain action without knowing why
- A sense of amazement or wonder when you find your questions answered in a surprising or delightful way
- A certainly that you are making the right decision
- Experiencing an intense energy to create
Ms. Eppler has also stated that when she asks someone a question to which they respond, "I don't know," she then follows up with the question, "Okay, but if you did know, what would be your answer?" For this question, they always seem to have a response.
If you find yourself making choices because of a fear or worry about some unknown, I encourage you to think a little harder, and look for that extra bit of courage that is hidden within. According to Ms. Eppler, "When your inspiration and purpose are greater than your fear, miracles happen."
Look for your purpose.
Find your courage.
Make the difficult choice to be true to yourself.
Just know, the rewards are amazing, and the journey is not one to be missed.
photograph by Anna Anikina