Integral Decision Making

The Three Centers of Intelligence

To make aligned and wise decisions, the three centers of human intelligence must be consulted: the Head (logic, reason, data), the Heart (emotion, values, feelings) and the Instinct (visceral, intuition, physical sensation).

Often, these centers are at odds (e.g. logic says "accept the job", but instinct feels a "knot in the stomach"). Ignoring one of them often leads to decisions that one regrets.

Alignment Process and Internal Checkup

The technique is to visualize the decision and sequentially ask, "What does my mind think?", "What does my heart feel?" and "What does my gut/stomach say?".

If there is congruence (all three say "yes"), the decision is sound. If there is discrepancy, stop and explore what information the dissenting center is picking up.

For example, instinct may be detecting a subtle danger that logic has not yet processed.

Avoiding Analysis Paralysis

While consulting all three centers is vital, one must also avoid getting stuck looking for perfection.

Once the comprehensive review has been done, the decision must be made with the information available, taking responsibility (maturity) that there are no absolute guarantees, only probabilities managed with inner wisdom.

Summary

For wise decisions, the three centers of intelligence must be consulted: head, heart and instinct. These often disagree, an