Role Of Intuition And Mindfulness On Problem - Solving:– A Review

Abstract

The aim of this review was to understand the features and functions of two apparently conflicting constructs “intuition” and “mindfulness” with specific focus on problem solving. Literature published between 2010 and 2020 was searched and retrieved from data bases including Research Gate, PsycINFO, EBSCO, Crossref, Medline, PubMed and Scopus, using the key words “intuition”, “mindfulness”, “intuition and problem solving”, “mindfulness and problem solving” and “intuition and mindfulness” for the study. The relationship between the two constructs was analysed within the dual process system of information processing. It was also investigated whether mindfulness would facilitate access to intuition and contribute to problem solving, or function complementary to each other. Analysis of published literature revealed that while the construct ‘intuition’ could be fitted into non-conscious system of cognitive process, the construct ‘mindfulness’ was related to conscious cognitive processing system, and therefore appeared to be contradictory. A critical evaluation of the relationship between the two constructs revealed a symbiotic relationship and emphasized the need to develop an integrated model to trigger intuition in mindful state with regard to problem-solving or decision-making.