The Resonance Meter
Test choices for an unmistakable sense of truth instead of settling for “meh.”
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Time to result
- ~weeks to results
- Steps
- 5
- Confidence
- 90%
The Resonance Meter is an imagined gauge for noticing whether an idea, word, or opportunity feels deeply true. The user gets quiet, considers an option, and observes the body's and mind's response without immediately arguing with it. Erin Weed describes three broad readings: an affirmative “hell yes,” a decisive rejection, and a strong “meh.” The response is treated as information rather than unquestionable instruction. A strong reaction should prompt curiosity about what creates attraction, resistance, or indifference, especially when the option differs from prior specifications or expectations. With practice, the method helps entrepreneurs and leaders recognize their own opinions amid social pressure and habitual analysis. For robust decisions, its intuitive signal can then be combined with factual and emotional inquiry rather than used to deny relevant evidence.
Origin
Erin Weed uses the Resonance Meter within The Dig to test whether a proposed core word feels unmistakably true to the person rather than merely sounding clever.
Core principles
- 01Resonance is a strong internal response to what feels true.
- 02A clear yes, clear no, and indifference provide different information.
- 03The body can register useful information before the mind explains it.
- 04Intuition becomes more audible when external and internal noise decreases.
- 05Resonance should provoke curiosity rather than replace all factual evaluation.
How to run it
- 1
Reduce the noise
Pause discussion, stimulation, and pressure long enough to notice your own reaction. Meditation, walking, or quiet reflection can help create the necessary space.
Pro tip Use a consistent calming practice before evaluating high-stakes options.
Watch out A rushed or socially pressured environment can obscure your own response.
- 2
Present the option
Consider one proposed word, opportunity, or choice clearly and concretely. Avoid comparing several vaguely defined possibilities at once.
Pro tip Say the option aloud and imagine yourself living with the decision.
Watch out An abstract option may produce a weak response simply because it is poorly specified.
- 3
Read the signal
Notice bodily tension, expansion, calm, enthusiasm, dread, or indifference. Classify the initial response as a strong yes, a strong no, or a “meh.”
Pro tip Record the response before explaining or rationalizing it.
Watch out Anxiety about growth can resemble a no, so the first sensation still requires interpretation.
- 4
Get curious
Ask what the response may reveal about your needs, values, fears, or desires. Treat unexpected reactions as information worthy of examination.
Pro tip Pay particular attention when a strong yes contradicts your original checklist or specifications.
Watch out Do not use intuition to dismiss concrete risks or inconvenient facts.
- 5
Validate and choose
Compare the resonant response with the relevant circumstances and evidence. Choose when the signal remains meaningful after reflection and practical validation.
Pro tip Recheck the response after sleeping on a consequential decision.
Watch out Waiting for emotional certainty in every minor choice can become avoidance.
In the wild
A buyer may enter several houses that satisfy the written requirements but feel no meaningful response. Another house may fail part of the original specification yet create an immediate sense of “oh, yeah, this is it.” The unexpected response becomes information to investigate rather than something to ignore.
→ The buyer identifies which option deserves deeper practical evaluation instead of relying only on the original checklist.
After collecting recurring themes from a client's life, a facilitator presents a possible central word. Rather than trying to impress the client, the facilitator watches for recognition so strong that the word feels obviously and enduringly true.
→ The client selects a personally resonant organizing theme rather than accepting an imposed label.
Common mistakes
Settling for “meh”
Accepting a merely plausible option can produce an identity statement or decision that lacks genuine personal meaning.
Confusing resonance with excitement
Novelty, flattery, or adrenaline can feel strong without indicating durable alignment, so the reaction should be examined over time.
Ignoring contrary evidence
An intuitive response is useful information, but it does not erase objective constraints or risks.
Is it for you?
Best for
It is best for evaluating identity statements, major opportunities, homes, partnerships, or other choices with meaningful personal consequences.
Not ideal for
It is not ideal as the sole basis for safety-critical, legal, medical, or purely technical decisions requiring objective evidence.
From the transcript
“In fact, I have this tool I use called the resonance meter.”
“So what I'm looking for is just the hell yes. Like that is so ridiculously True that there could be no other truth.”
“This is information, right? So I think intuition is a skill everybody has.”
From the episode
How to Gain Unshakable Confidence Through Clarity ft. Erin Weed
Erin Weed