In most of life's decisions, do you rely more on "intellectual" knowledge or "gut feeling"?

Question

In most of life's decisions, do you rely more on "intellectual" knowledge or "gut feeling"?

Answer 1

It's strange but when I make major life decisions, I don't ponder the situation very much.  I forge ahead and do things,  Oftentimes I look back and wonder why I wasn't nervous or upset.  I can honestly say that I haven't ever made any huge mistakes either (still keeping my fingers crossed).  I think I always "know" what I want and just work to get it.  I guess that would mean I relied on intellectual knowledge.  

Answer 2

Both!  It also depends on the issue.  For example, I hate my job.. .and I want to leave to do something else.  I cannot go strictly on "gut feeling".  I have to look at my life situation (finances, home ownership, job market).  However, when changing careers to something I want to do, I have to lean a little on "gut feeling".  It's at that point that you're asking "what do I love to do?"  You have to use your feelings.

Answer 3

I would say that I rely on a magical combination of both.  Check out the book "Blink" which discusses those snap decisions or gut feelings and their legitimacy.  I think our brains process information faster than we can consciously acknowledge them, which renders a "gut feeling."  

Answer 4

The gut IS the feeling and the intellect has the job of setting up the goals to get oneself out of a jam and/or solve the problem thoroughly.

Answer 5

It depends on the situation I'm in..If it was related to my college or my career..I rely more on intellectual knowledge..If it was related to my relationships and similar matters..Then I'd rely on my feelings.