"Go to your bosom: Knock there and ask your heart what it doth know."

The essence of this quote is about introspection. It’s urging you to look within yourself—to consult your heart and intuition to find the answers you seek. In simpler terms, it tells you to trust your inner voice rather than relying solely on external advice or superficial judgments.

This saying comes from Shakespeare’s play "Measure for Measure," written in the early 1600s. The character who delivers this line, Isabella, is urging another character to reflect deeply and honestly on his own feelings and conscience. Back then, and even now, it’s a call to self-awareness and authenticity.

Let’s bring this idea to life with a real-world example. Picture Sarah, a dedicated teacher who loves her job but feels burnt out. She’s debating whether to take a sabbatical. Friends and family offer conflicting advice—some say she needs the break, others warn she might lose momentum in her career. Confused, she decides to spend a quiet weekend alone, disconnected from the hustle and bustle. In the solitude, she reflects on her motivations, the joy teaching brings her, and the toll it’s taken on her well-being. Her heart tells her she needs to rest, to recharge, to return to her profession with renewed passion. Taking that break turns out to be the best decision she’s made in years, ultimately enhancing her teaching and her happiness.

You can apply this wisdom in your own life by setting aside time for self-reflection. When faced with a decision, big or small, find a quiet space where you can think without distractions. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on your feelings. Your heart, your intuition, often knows what’s best for you—even if your mind is swamped with doubts or external pressures.

Imagine you’re at a crossroads, deciding whether to stay in a comfortable job that doesn’t fulfill you or to leap into a passion project with no guarantee of success. Take a moment, just like Sarah did. Disconnect from your phone, your computer—every interruption. Sit quietly and really think about where your true happiness lies. What excites you? What scares you? Feel that knot in your stomach—sometimes it’s fear holding you back, but sometimes it’s your heart telling you it’s not right. Trust that gut feeling.

Here’s a story to ground this. Think about Mike. He’s got a steady job in finance, but every day feels like he’s dragging himself through the motions. He’s always loved cooking and dreams about opening his own restaurant, but the security of his current job holds him back. One sleepless night, he goes to his bosom—literally placing his hand on his heart—and asks himself what he truly wants. The answer is clear, and with a mix of fear and exhilaration, he starts planning his exit from the corporate world. It’s not easy, and there are bumps along the way, but Mike finds that he’s never been happier. His heart knew the right path all along.

So next time you’re stuck, go to your bosom. Knock there. Ask your heart what it knows—it might surprise you with its wisdom.