How To Finally Tap Into Your Instinct If You’re Only Making Decisions With Logic

If you haven't seen that INSANE "Bachelor" episode where Nick Viall sends home like, five girls in one episode, you're seriously missing out.

What was even more shocking was the fact that the 36-year-old "Bachelor" could actually see a future with some of them... but his heart stopped him from keeping them around.

He says to the remaining contestants,

I really want this to work out, but I want it to be real and I want it to be right. And right now, I just feel terrified that's not going to happen.

While you might initially think Viall's being an idiot for throwing away some amazing women just because his emotions are telling him not to, just think for a second: The guy knows what he wants, and he doesn't want to string these women along if he doesn't see a future with them.

Viall is the perfect example of someone who listens to his heart over his head, and honestly, I completely admire the guy for that. I'm not someone who shares my feelings too often, so it's always refreshing to see someone totally trust his or her heart.

In fact, science shows when faced with an issue, it's always way more important to listen to your heart over your head. The heart is actually called the "little brain" in neurocardiology, since it contains 40,000 sensory neurons that pass on information to your brain.

But trust me; I know if you're not used to listening to that little voice inside your head, it can be extremely difficult to really pay attention to what your instincts are telling you, even though you know it'll be so much better for you in the long run.

Here are five ways to finally tap into your instincts, so you can always make the best decisions for yourself:

1. Write down EVERYTHING.

Writing things down is kind of an escape: By physically putting things on paper, you're boosting the healing process on your emotions.

You feel free after you write something... kind of like you've left your emotions on a piece of paper, and now, your mind is over it. While obviously that's not entirely true, the release you feel after writing can help your brain look at a situation in a whole new light.

Especially since writing takes a lot more time than saying things, you have time to process what you're feeling as you're writing it. This gives your intuition the space it needs to truly process the situation.

2. Learn to meditate.

There are multiple studies out there that show us how meditation reduces stress, makes us more self-aware and overall, enriches our lives.

When you meditate, you're basically focusing inward, into what your thoughts and feelings are. You clear your mind of excess thoughts and focus simply on you.

As a result, you get more in touch with your emotions and feelings, away from all the outside noise. This gives you a foundation to dig deep, even when you have no idea why you're feeling the way you are.

3. Ask yourself questions.

Say you get a weird feeling whenever a certain girl comes next to you. You don't know why, but you have a feeling you should stay away from her. (FYI, this has totally happened to me.)

While sometimes you may not even realize what the hell is going on, asking yourself certain questions might bring those answers to light.

Does this girl remind you of someone who hurt you? Did you hear some rumors about her that you need to verify the authenticity of? Is it just her "vibe" that's throwing you off?

Even if you can't answer ANY of these questions, ask them anyway. Notice the first thought that comes to mind.

Maybe your mind will say, "Oh, she reminds me of so and so." Or maybe your gut will just be like, "Stay the fuck away."

Whatever the answers may be, they're important. You'll only get to the bottom of these situations if you pay attention.

4. Stop and step away from certain situations.

When your emotions are running wild, you can't think straight. Your mind's all over the place, and you're jumping from conclusion to conclusion.

The solution? Take a step BACK.

Take some time to reflect on what just happened. Once your mind is calm, it can dig deep and find the best decision for you.

5. Be mindful of physical reactions.

Is your heart pounding? Are there butterflies in your stomach? Do you get an ache in your stomach when you think about a certain "friend" of yours?

All those reactions MEAN something.

When your body is having a physical reaction to something, it's because it's affecting your mind in a way you might not even realize yet. Take stock of what you're feeling, and understand exactly what the issue is.

While trusting your emotions might seem super scary at first, it's vital to start the process. Your intuition can tell you more than you realize... if you only take the time to listen.