I'm always on the lookout for new perspectives and unconventional wisdom that can help me to improve my decision making. Recently, I came across the concept of the "Whole Body Yes" in an interview from Tim Ferriss with Diana Chapman.
The core idea is simple. In addition to IQ and EQ, we also possess something akin to "Body Intelligence" (BQ). It's about tuning in to the physical and emotional signals your body gives you when you're faced with a decision. Instead of just weighing the logical pros and cons, you also check in with how your body is reacting. Do we feel a resounding sense of openness, enthusiasm, and alignment? Or do we detect more subtle (and perhaps less conscious) resistance, discomfort, or ambivalence?
A "Whole Body Yes" is when your head, heart and gut are all in enthusiastic alignment about a decision or direction you're considering. It's a sensory experience where you feel a lack of resistance or energy drain, and instead have a feeling of excitement, aliveness and eagerness to move forward.
While I'm not aware of rigorous scientific backing for this concept, my personal experience aligns with it. As someone who often trusts their intuition, there's something to it. I've found that some of my best decisions were guided by inexplicable gut feelings and often not really explainable.
Of course, reading those bodily cues isn't always straightforward. The hell yes and clear no's are usually easy to catch, but the murkier middle ground – the subtle no or the lukewarm maybe – is hard. Additionally, everyone seems to have different reactions. For example, some have reactions to No while for some others the void of the Hell Yes means no.
I've also found that the scale of the decision can play a role. Thinking about writing a $100k check into a startup might feel great, while thinking about writing a $500k check in the same company sparks a sense of unease. If a larger sum does not feel right, this is probably a sign that it's not a hell yes, and therefore, it's better to pass.
BQ doesn't replace analysis and intellectual debate. Data and information are prerequisites for making good decisions. But your body and intuition might be able to tell you something that your rational mind can't. Being aware of (subtle) body signals can be an important input for decision making.
So the next time you're faced with a big life or business decision, don't just weigh the pros and cons. Take a moment to check in with your body. What is it telling you? That whole-being "yes" might just be the key to unlocking your next great opportunity.
What's your experience?
Photo by Sean Sinclair on Unsplash