Intuition vs Logic: The Art of Making Balanced Decisions

Have you ever been confused between following your "feelings" or thinking things through carefully? It's like there are two voices inside me: one says, “Trust your gut!”, one more reminder, “Hey, don’t be reckless, do some research first!”. Life does tend to bring us to the crossroads between intuition and logic. But actually, which one should we choose?

What is Intuition?

Intuition is like inner GPS—can appear suddenly without any complicated analysis, but it feels on point very much. For example, when you are offered a good job but your heart restless, or meet new people but it feels like perfect fit very.

Well, this is not just guessing! Intuition is formed from database experiences, emotions, and instinct that we have collected throughout our lives, only work behind the scenes. That's why, often intuitive decisions make us "Well, it turns out it's true, right!"

What is Logic?

Logic is like a person analyst in our heads. He likes to collect data, compare options, and calculate the pros and cons. You are the type who makes list pros and cons before buying something? Yes, that's logic at work.

Logic is very important to avoid rash decisions. However, if we think too much, we can end up making mistakes. overthinking and instead it doesn't progress at all. “It’s safe, but why does it taste less satisfying?”

Intuition vs Logic: Why Do They Often Conflict?

Our brain has two “modes”:

• Intuition Mode: Retrieving information from emotional memory and subconscious experiences.
• Logic Mode: Use the frontal lobe for rational analysis.

For example, you get a job offer out of town. Logic says: “Great salary, great prospects!” But intuition whispered: “I don't feel comfortable being away from my family.”

Signs You Are Following Your Intuition

Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish which is which whisper of intuition honest, where only impulsive desire? These are the characteristics when real intuition is speaking:

🌿 There is peace in – Even though your choice looks “illogical” in the eyes of others, in your heart you feel it calm and confident very.
🧠 Beyond logic – You have difficulty explaining the reasons rationally, but there is strong belief that “this is the right way”.
💖 Feeling connected – This decision makes you feel in harmony with one's identity, not because of external influences or social pressure.

Fun facts: That genuine intuition not forcing. It comes like a soft whisper, not a disturbing scream. That's why it's often only heard when we're in a state of relax and mindful.

Signs You Rely on Logic

Logic is like a skilled navigator who always carries a map and compass. He works with a structured method to solve problems. What are the characteristics of us relying on logic?

• Make spreadsheet to compare options.
• Mindset “If A, then B.”
• Need proof and certainty before go.

But be careful, logic can also get caught up in thinking error (logical fallacy) that commonly occurs. For example:

• “Everyone does A, so A must be true” (Bandwagon Fallacy)
• “Because B happened after A, it means A caused B” (Post Hoc Fallacy)

[Read more about 5 Examples of Logical Fallacies that Often Occur in Indonesian Society]

Logic is powerful, but it also has its limits. Sometimes, life is too complex to be explained with data alone. Well, this is where collaboration with intuition so the key is important.

Intuition vs Logic, Which is Better?

The answer is: Both are important!

• Intuition = Inner compass, help find what feels right.
• Logic = Map, navigation aid how to get there.

Example: Want to resign from work? Love intuition signal “I'm not happy here.” While logic helps prepare emergency funds and look for new opportunities.

Short Case Study:

Research by Bechara et al. (1997) in the journal Deciding Advantageously Before Knowing The Advantageous Strategy informs that the feeling in our hearts is like a hunch or gut feeling which apparently has its own “express lane” in the brain, different from the area for rational thinking. So, when you feel "This seems true", actually that's the result of your brain again process past experiences secretly, not just the habit of guessing.

Amazingly, participants in this study were able to make decisions that profitable before they are aware of the reason. This is proof that collaboration between feeling and the fact is real. So, if you have doubts tomorrow, try listening to both. Who knows, the combination of your intuition and logic can provide an optimal middle ground.

7. Tips for Uniting Intuition and Logic

How can intuition and logic synergize in every decision we make?

1. Don't rush to decide. Take time to make me time. A 10-minute meditation or a walk in nature can “open” your intuition.

2. Write in a Journal. Compare what the heart says vs what does logic say. For example, “Want to change jobs. My heart says 'this is right', but my logic is worried that my salary will decrease.” You can read more about journaling techniques at Let's Get to Know Yourself Better with Journaling Techniques

3. Evaluation of Previous Decisions. When have you been successful because you followed your intuition? And when has logic made you successful? Happy from the problem? Try to study both patterns.

4. Small Trial. If in doubt, you can take small steps first. For example, freelance side job before resigning completely from your current job.

The main thing is: Intuition is a compass, while logic is a map. No need to compete, but use it together so that your path is clear but still meaningful in making every decision you choose.

Conclusion: Don't Choose One, But Listen to Both

Intuition vs logic it's not about choosing one, but learning synergize between the two. Sometimes our love intuition clue, while logic helps us execute.

In the midst of confusion, perhaps what we need is not an instant answer, but space to listen both heart and mind.

"The intuitive mind is a sacred gift, the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift." — Albert Einstein

So, next time you are confused between feeling and the fact is, remember: both can work together. Come on, be more sensitive to each other. inner voice and still grounded with reality!