Why does it feel hard for many of us lawyers to connect with our intuition?

We’ve heard the benefits of following our intuition from great thinkers and leaders like Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, and Oprah, but we rarely hear this from leaders in law.

As lawyers, we have highly developed rational minds that rely on logic and reason. We know how to analyze and make well-reasoned arguments and recommendations. We’re skilled at strategy. But our intuition–the source of our inner guidance–lies outside the rational mind.

“Intuition does not denote something contrary to reason, but something outside of the province of reason.” – Carl Jung

While the rational mind might be sufficient to navigate many of our daily tasks, it’s woefully inadequate to guide us towards our highest and most fulfilling career path.

“Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” – Steve Jobs

It’s not that we ignore the rational mind when making career choices, it’s that we consult our inner guidance first, trust it completely (“Intuition doesn’t lie.” – Oprah), and then allow our rational mind to weigh in. This way of decision making can feel unfamiliar at first and may take practice, but it’s well worth the effort.

“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant.” – Albert Einstein

“Intuition will tell the thinking mind where to look next.” – Jonas Salk

Intuition often communicates through images, metaphors, and bodily sensations. We may have a sense that something is right or wrong for us. We may experience an inner knowing that we can’t quite explain.

This is why creating or experiencing art in its many forms, mindfully spending time in nature, reading mythology and poetry, and raising awareness of our bodily sensations can strengthen our intuition.

As busy lawyers, these practices may not be part of our lives. We may have a highly developed rational mind and an underdeveloped intuitive mind. That’s where I was five years ago – disconnected from my intuition and the wisdom of my body – so I know from experience we can strengthen and develop this muscle.

It may be the most important thing we do.

And if we want to chart our own path, it’s essential.

Intuition is available to all of us. It’s part of our human nature.

The first step in strengthening our intuitive muscle is to turn down the volume of the outside world. This creates the space and the inner quiet necessary to discern our own inner guidance. I don’t mean we ignore emails from clients but we intentionally manage our exposure to other people’s ideas and opinions, especially if they trigger doubt or fear.

Anxiety and fear can block our ability to hear our inner guidance. However, creativity and curiosity reduce anxiety and fear. When we are engaged in creative pursuits or following our curiosity, it’s as if the fear and anxiety centers of the brain (which trigger catastrophizing and rumination) take a nap. This can allow the subtle voice of our inner guidance to come through.

I’d love to hear from you.

What’s your relationship with your intuition?

Does it provide you with consistent guidance or is this something you might want to develop?

And if you’re a woman lawyer reading this, the Returning to Soul Sedona Women’s Retreat October 1-4, 2026 is a phenomenal opportunity to strengthen your relationship with your intuition!

You can join the women who’ve made a $100 deposit to hold your spot my clicking here. The deposit is refundable till May 1.