Is Instinct Always Right?

Yes, I generally question my instincts. I use an instinct as a starting point but nothing more. Logic is far more reliable than instinct.

Sometimes when I need to make a quick decision, particularly on a choice that is not important, I will use my instinct. For anything important, I want to think it through and make a reasoned decision.

Instincts are based on your fears, your prejudices and your impulses. They aren't the best way to make reasonable decisions.

A good and worthy point...thanks for that!

No. But it is the best that can be done when an instant decision is required.

If you have the luxury of investigating and thinking before making a decision, you should do so.

But if you are in an emergency and need to make an instant decision on a course of action, go with your instinct.

I play poker profitably (not professionally... but I consistently make a fair amount of money when I play).

People's instincts make me money. Poker is a mathematical game, and to play it correctly you need to be calculating the most profitable option. Often the correct decision is counter-intuitive. When people play instinctively they not only make bad plays, but they become predictable.