How does intuition relate to business? We are accustomed to following standard business procedure, and this must be done in order that our business grows. But do not rule out intuition.

Intuition is defined as: ‘A thing that one knows or considers likely from instinctive feeling rather than conscious reasoning.’

Our intuitive voice is that little voice within our head that is trying to tell us something. Sometimes referred to as ‘gut feeling’, it can also be the momentary butterflies we experience in our stomach. Life isn’t black and white. Sometimes that little voice is giving us direction so we should listen and follow, or at least explore.

How many times have you thought to yourself…”That’s a good idea,” or “That looks like a good opportunity”?

Well this is intuition kicking in. Have you ever been out on business, visiting an unfamiliar place, only to find yourself lost trying to follow street signs to your destination? Then you see a street which you know is the right way to go. This is intuition.

Equally, as business owners, we need to go with our gut feeling at times; we need to follow our instinct on where and how to take our business forward. A client once told the story of how he had been walking passed a book shop on one occasion and felt the urge to go inside. On looking around, his eyes were drawn to a book on the bottom shelf of one of the bookcases. It was as though this book just jumped out at him. It was a marketing book from the 19th century and it was absolutely full of useful information relevant to his business which he has used to this day. Had he not listened to that hunch, he would never have entered the book store.

We should be inquisitive. When our little voice speaks up and tells us to take note of something – “That looks interesting,” and “Let’s look into that,” – we should investigate further. Our exploration of the fact will more often than not lead to something good. We have all more than likely experienced this or heard stories of this happening.

You don’t have to be a psychologist, or a philosopher, or indeed a psychic; just listening to your inner voice and acting on an inkling could lead you to a gold mine. And if you don’t explore the possibilities, you will never know. A great opportunity may have been missed.

Obviously one shouldn’t use intuition to replace standard business processes or procedure. But you should listen out for your positive little voice and let it lead you to otherwise unchartered territories; to more success in business as well as in life.