The Hidden Ways Your Intuition Can Sabotage Your Success
The Hidden Ways Your Intuition Can Sabotage Your Success
The Hidden Ways Your Intuition Can Sabotage Your Success
You’ve probably been told to “trust your gut.” In business, relationships, and major life choices, intuition is often portrayed as a mystical force that guides us to the right decisions. But what if that same instinct is leading you astray?
In 1907, Harry Houdini, the greatest escape artist of his time, was invited to test a new set of handcuffs designed to be “inescapable.” Houdini, always trusting his instincts, began his routine. Minutes turned into an hour. Sweat dripped from his forehead as frustration set in. What he didn’t realise was that the cuffs had a simple flaw—one he would have seen had he not relied purely on his gut but instead taken a step back to analyse. Eventually, exhausted, he discovered the secret by accident and freed himself. This moment revealed a truth many overlook: intuition alone is not enough.
The Science Behind Faulty Instincts
Our brains are wired for efficiency, but not necessarily accuracy. We rely on mental shortcuts, or heuristics, which help us make quick decisions. However, these shortcuts are often riddled with biases that distort reality. A study by Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky showed that people consistently overestimate their ability to make accurate intuitive judgments, especially in areas where they lack expertise. (National Academy of Sciences)
Some of the most common ways intuition leads to self-sabotage include -
Survivorship Bias –
You see the successful few who “followed their gut” and assume it always works, ignoring the thousands who failed.
Confirmation Bias –
You seek out information that supports your intuition rather than critically examining all perspectives.
Emotional Reasoning –
You feel something is right or wrong and assume that feeling equals fact.
How Intuition Can Derail Your Professional Life
Imagine an entrepreneur who believes in a business idea despite overwhelming evidence that the market isn’t interested. Or an investor who “feels” a stock will rise even when data suggests otherwise. Trusting intuition blindly in these cases often results in financial losses, wasted time, and missed opportunities.
In the workplace, unchecked intuition can lead to poor hiring decisions, bad strategic moves, and resistance to change. Studies indicate that intuition-based hiring decisions are less reliable than structured, evidence-based approaches. (Harvard Business Review)
How Intuition Can Undermine Your Personal Growth
Beyond business, relying too much on gut feelings can affect personal relationships and self-improvement. A classic example is staying in toxic relationships because intuition insists “things will get better” or making rash life decisions based on fleeting emotions rather than rational thought.
A 2018 study from MIT found that our intuitive confidence is highest in areas where we are least competent, creating a dangerous illusion of certainty. (MIT News)
The Danger of Intuition in Personal Judgments
Intuition can also lead to unnecessary conflicts and missed opportunities in personal and professional relationships. Imagine meeting a new colleague at work. Something about them rubs you the wrong way—maybe their tone, their posture, or the way they carry themselves. Your gut tells you they are arrogant or untrustworthy, so you keep your distance. You subtly exclude them from conversations, dismiss their ideas, and avoid collaboration.
Months later, you realise they were not only competent but also a valuable team player. What felt like arrogance was actually shyness, and what seemed like disinterest was simply a reserved nature. Your intuition, influenced by implicit bias, led you to misjudge their character, and, in the process, you missed an opportunity to build a strong professional relationship. Studies show that first impressions formed by intuition can often be inaccurate, especially when cultural or personal biases are involved. (American Psychological Association)
This doesn’t just happen in professional settings. How many times have we dismissed potential friendships or misjudged people in personal life based on a “feeling” rather than facts? Learning to challenge these gut reactions can open doors we didn’t even realise we were closing.
When to Trust Your Gut—and When to Challenge It
Intuition isn’t inherently bad—it’s a powerful tool when combined with critical thinking. The key is knowing when to use it and when to challenge it.
Here’s how:
Pause and Seek Data –
Before making a big decision, step back and gather objective information.
Test Your Assumptions –
Ask yourself, What if my intuition is wrong? Have I considered alternative perspectives?
Use a Decision-Making Framework –
Tools like the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) or Pros and Cons Analysis can counteract intuitive blind spots.
Master Your Mindset, Master Your Success
The most successful people don’t just “trust their gut”—they verify it. By balancing intuition with logic, data, and a willingness to challenge personal biases, you can make smarter, more effective choices.
Ready to sharpen your decision-making skills? Get expert insights here: Maria Fuentes Resources.
Watch powerful strategies to enhance your mindset and career on YouTube: Maria Fuentes YouTube Channel.
For those seeking actionable solutions to recognise how hidden intuition patterns might sabotage your success and learn to harness them for growth, click the button below!
Remember, acknowledging the problem is the first step towards finding a solution.
If however, you need further help, do not doubt to reach out.
We're all ears!
What burning questions or areas of personal or professional development would you like us to address in future posts?
About the Author
Maria Fuentes is an author, renowned Breakthrough Coach, and Performance Strategist with a finance and management background committed to helping professionals achieve peak performance in their personal and professional lives. With a tailored approach centred on emotional intelligence and leadership development, she has over a decade of experience empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
In addition to group workshops, Maria Fuentes offers one-to-one coaching sessions to provide personalised guidance and support. Through her consultancy firm, Maria Fuentes Breakthrough Coaching, she designs customised coaching programmes that foster growth, resilience, and emotional intelligence in leaders. By working closely with her clients, Maria Fuentes creates a supportive environment that encourages self-discovery, skill development, and the achievement of ambitious goals.
Unlock Your Potential: Register for Our EQ Masterclass
Have you been searching for ways to elevate your emotional intelligence (EQ) and become a more effective leader? Look no further!
At Maria Fuentes Coaching, we specialise in helping ambitious professionals like you develop the skills necessary to excel in today's business environment. As part of our commitment to supporting your growth, we're thrilled to announce an exclusive series of EQ masterclasses across the UK. These engaging workshops will provide you with actionable strategies and tools to enhance your EQ and transform your leadership style.
Don't wait to secure your spot – spaces are limited! To learn more or reserve your place, please send us a message. Invest in yourself and your organisation’s future by taking the first step towards unlocking your true potential as an emotionally intelligent leader.
Maria Fuentes