Anxiety or Intuition- knowing the difference
We’ve all been there—standing at the edge of a decision, stomach in knots, unsure whether we’re hearing the quiet voice of intuition or the panicked scream of anxiety. Both feel urgent, both demand our attention, but only one leads us toward clarity.
So how do you tell the difference? And more importantly, how do you begin to trust yourself again when doubt and fear have taken over?
Well…
Anxiety is loud. It’s fast, overwhelming, and often tangled in worst-case scenarios. It fills your mind with “what ifs” and catastrophes, pulling you away from the present moment and into a spiral of doubt. Anxiety tends to come from wounds—old fears, past rejections, or the deep-rooted belief that you’ll make the wrong choice and regret it. It’s the nervous energy before a big event, the racing heart when you’re faced with the unknown, the endless second-guessing that leaves you feeling stuck.
And…
Intuition is quiet. It speaks in a knowing way rather than a panic. It’s that deep, settled sense in your body that nudges you rather than shoves you. Unlike anxiety, intuition doesn’t feel urgent or desperate—it feels clear, even if it’s telling you something difficult. It’s the feeling of knowing you should walk away from a situation, even if your mind is still making excuses to stay. It’s the deep breath of clarity that arrives when you stop overthinking and simply listen.
Sometimes (or often) it’s really hard to know the difference so try asking yourself:
Does this feeling create chaos or clarity? Anxiety scrambles your thoughts; intuition settles them.
Is this fear-based or truth-based? Anxiety is often rooted in fear; intuition is grounded in reality.
Is my body tense or open? Anxiety tightens the chest, knots the stomach. Intuition feels lighter, even if it’s nudging you toward a tough choice.
Is there a rush to act? Anxiety demands immediate action. Intuition allows space to breathe and reflect.
Rebuilding Trust in Yourself
If anxiety has drowned out your intuition for a long time, rebuilding trust takes practice. Start small. Tune in to how your body responds to everyday decisions. Notice when you feel frantic versus when you feel deeply sure. Meditation, journaling, and therapy can all help you reconnect with that quiet voice within you—the one that already knows the way.
Because the truth is, you do know. Beneath the noise of fear and doubt, you’ve always known. It’s just about remembering how to listen.
What next?
If you're ready to reconnect with your inner wisdom and create space for your intuition to rise above the noise, I’m here to help. Therapy can be a gentle guide in this journey—helping you navigate anxiety, regain clarity, and trust yourself again. Reach out to begin your path to self-trust.