
When we think about learning—whether it’s about leadership, strategy, or personal growth—it’s easy to assume that knowledge comes solely from the mind.
After all, we live in a world dominated by cognitive processes: analysis, planning, and problem-solving.
But this focus on mental knowledge limits our potential. It overlooks a vast, untapped resource that’s accessible to all of us: Felt Knowledge.
Felt knowledge is the wisdom that comes from tuning into our physical sensations, emotions, and spiritual awareness. It’s dynamic, intuitive, and deeply personal—and when we learn to harness it, it can transform how we lead, work, and connect.
The Limits Of Mind-Led Learning
Traditional approaches to business and leadership are deeply mind-led. From management textbooks to endless strategic frameworks, we rely heavily on mental processes to determine what we know and how we act.
This dominance of the mental body has its benefits. Logical thinking helps us solve complex problems and create plans. But when we rely on it exclusively, we limit ourselves in three key ways:
Neglecting the Physical Body: We often treat the body as a vehicle to carry the mind, focusing on its appearance or stamina rather than its innate wisdom. Yet research from Stanford University shows that physical sensations—like gut feelings—play a critical role in decision-making (Bechara et al., 1997).
Overlooking Emotional Insights: Emotions are often dismissed as irrational or unprofessional in business settings, yet they hold valuable information about what matters most to us and to others. Studies have shown that emotional intelligence is a stronger predictor of leadership success than IQ (Harvard Business Review, 1998).
Ignoring Spiritual Connection: In an era of purpose-driven work, neglecting our spiritual awareness—or our sense of connection to something greater—leaves us disconnected from the deeper "why" behind what we do.
By relying solely on learned mental knowledge, we risk missing the holistic insights that come from engaging all parts of ourselves.
What Is Felt Knowledge?
Felt knowledge is the wisdom that comes from within. It’s the knowledge we gain by tuning into the signals of our body, the flow of our emotions, and the connection to our deeper selves or broader purpose.
Unlike learned knowledge, which is finite and external, felt knowledge is:
Limitless: It comes from a place within us that is always available, regardless of external circumstances.
Responsive: Felt knowledge adapts to the present moment, allowing us to make decisions with clarity and confidence.
Essential: In a world where creativity, connection, and adaptability are critical, felt knowledge helps us access insights that traditional approaches cannot.
Imagine being able to tap into the full spectrum of your knowledge—your head, heart, and gut—all working together. This integration is the cornerstone of regenerative business, where success isn’t just about profit but about creating sustainable, meaningful impact.
How Felt Knowledge Can Transform Leadership & Wellbeing
Tuning into felt knowledge isn’t just a personal endeavour—it has the power to reshape how we lead, connect, and innovate.
Here’s how:
1. Improved Decision-Making
When we include physical sensations, emotions, and spiritual connection in our decision-making process, we gain a more holistic perspective. For example, pausing to notice tension in the body during a high-stakes decision might reveal hidden stressors or unspoken concerns.
A 2021 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that leaders who balance cognitive and emotional awareness are better equipped to handle uncertainty and complexity—qualities that are crucial in today’s business landscape.
2. Authentic Leadership
Authentic leadership comes from aligning your actions with your values, emotions, and unique style. By tapping into felt knowledge, you connect with the deepest parts of yourself, enabling you to lead with authenticity and presence.
One of my clients shared that by working together, they learned to trust their instincts during a challenging organisational shift. The result? Stronger relationships with their team and a renewed sense of purpose. You can read more from my clients on my testimonials page here.
3. Enhanced Team Dynamics
When leaders model connection with their felt knowledge, they create space for others to do the same. Teams become more collaborative, empathetic, and innovative when they’re encouraged to bring their whole selves to work.
In the context of regenerative business, this is a game-changer. It fosters environments where people thrive, ideas flow freely, and organisations grow sustainably.
Practical Ways To Engage Felt Knowledge In Regenerative Business
If you’re intrigued by the idea of integrating felt knowledge into your daily life or professional practice, here are some simple steps to get started:
Start with a Check-In: Set aside five minutes at the start of your day or meeting to notice what’s happening in your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies. You can read more about the check-in process in my first blog post here.
Practice Mindful Movement: Activities like yoga or walking in nature can help you connect with the wisdom of your body.
Journal Your Emotions: Spend a few minutes each day writing about how you’re feeling and where you notice these emotions in your body.
Explore Guided Meditation: Meditation practices that focus on body awareness can strengthen your connection to felt knowledge.
Work with a Coach: If you’d like support in developing these practices, contact me. My coaching sessions and workshops are designed to help leaders and teams unlock their full potential by tapping into their felt knowledge.
Embracing Regenerative Business Through Felt Knowledge
At its heart, felt knowledge invites us to lead and work in a way that’s more aligned with who we truly are. It allows us to move beyond surface-level strategies and connect with deeper wisdom that can transform not only our businesses but also our lives.
If you’re ready to explore how this approach can shape your journey, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s talk about how we can create a more authentic and regenerative path forward. Reach out to me here to book your free 45-minute consultation.
For insights into how my clients have experienced transformation through this work, take a look at their testimonials here.
Kommentare