Trust your instincts in decisionmaking from "summary" of Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
There comes a moment in every entrepreneur's journey where they must make a critical decision. It's a moment when all the data, analysis, and advice come to a head, and the weight of the decision rests solely on their shoulders. In those moments, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, to second-guess yourself, to question whether you have what it takes to make the right choice. But in those moments, Phil Knight would tell you to trust your instincts.
Knight understood that there is a certain intuition that comes with experience, with passion, with a deep understanding of your industry. It's a gut feeling, a sixth sense that can guide you when all other signs seem to point in different directions. Throughout his journey with Nike, Knight relied on this intuition time and time again, even when the odds seemed stacked against him. He knew that sometimes, you have to trust your gut over all else.
There is a certain clarity that comes with trusting your instincts. It allows you to cut through the noise, to see the path forward with a sense of purpose and conviction. It's not about ignoring the facts or dismissing the advice of others; it's about balancing those inputs with your own inner voice. Knight knew that sometimes, the best decisions are the ones that feel right in your gut, even if they go against conventional wisdom.
In the world of entrepreneurship, there is no playbook, no roadmap that guarantees success. It's a constant dance between analysis and intuition, between data and gut feeling. Knight understood this better than most, and he knew that sometimes, you have to take a leap of faith and trust that your instincts will guide you in the right direction. It's a risky move, to be sure, but sometimes, it's the only move worth making.
So, the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, torn between conflicting advice and uncertain outcomes, remember the words of Phil Knight. Trust your instincts. Listen to that inner voice that knows your industry, your company, and your vision better than anyone else. It may just be the guiding light that leads you to success.
