Trusting My Gut: How Intuition Has Guided Every Big Decision in My Life

If there’s one fact about me, it’s this—I have never had a plan a day in my life. No five-year roadmap, no meticulously outlined goals. Instead, I’ve always relied on my intuition to guide me, and so far, it’s worked out pretty well!

Some people thrive on structure, carefully mapping out every step of their journey. Me? I follow the feeling that says, This seems like a good idea. That instinctive pull has shaped some of the biggest decisions in my life—decisions that, looking back, have made me who I am today.

Joining the Army on a Gut Feeling

I didn’t grow up dreaming of joining the military. It wasn’t something I had planned or longed for. In fact, never in a million years did I think I would become a soldier. But when the opportunity presented itself, something inside me said, Yes. Do it. So I did. I leapt in with both feet, eyes closed. And that decision set me on a path of experiences, discipline, and growth that shaped my resilience and independence.

Choosing to Be a Stay-at-Home Mom

Becoming a stay-at-home mom wasn’t something I mapped out in advance, either. But when the time came, I knew deep down it was the right move for my family. It wasn’t always easy, but following my gut has allowed me to be present for my kids in ways that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Starting My Own Business

Photography was always something I loved, but making it a career? That wasn’t part of a grand plan. One day, husband said, You could do that. And that was that. I launched my business, built it from the ground up, and never looked back. What started as a passion turned into something I truly love—a way to capture joy, tell stories, and connect with amazing people.

Opening My Studio

I never thought I’d have my own studio space. But once again, that inner voice whispered, Why not? and I followed it. Now, I have a space where creativity flows, where I can bring my vision to life, and where clients can experience photography in a way that feels special.

No Plan, Just Trust

Every big decision in my life has started with a gut feeling. No spreadsheets, no pros-and-cons lists—just a deep sense of this is right. And honestly? It’s been working out pretty well.

Sometimes, you don’t need to have it all figured out. Sometimes, you just have to trust yourself, take the leap, and see where the journey leads.

Who else makes decisions this way? Let me know—I’d love to hear your story!

~Carissa