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The Signs: The New Science of How to Trust Your Instincts, as featured on The Diary of a CEO
The inspiring new book from neuroscientist and author of The Source, Dr Tara Swart, drawing on breathtaking true stories, cognitive science, ancient wisdom and much more to show that signs can guide and empower us.
'A tribute to consciousness, to connection and to those we’ve lost. This is more than a book, it’s a healing experience.’ – Jay Shetty, bestselling author of Think Like a Monk and 8 Rules of Love
'A powerful blend of science, intuition and mystery’ – Mel Robbins, bestselling author of The Let Them Theory and The 5 Second Rule
Have you ever experienced a coincidence that felt too unlikely to be true? Or have you seen or heard something that seemed to be a message from a lost loved one?
It’s all too easy to dismiss synchronicities or signs like these as chance. But what if they weren’t? And what if, by learning to tune into them, you could access a guiding wisdom that would help you overcome challenges and live with purpose?
In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart draws on her experience of grieving her beloved husband to explain how. Bringing together breathtaking real-life stories with teachings from cognitive science, near-death experiences and much more, she’ll show you how
Tap into your most important decision-making tool – your intuitionBreak free from the distractions and stress of modern life and focus on what matters mostShift your mindset from fixed thinking to openness and wonder, so you can see life’s limitless possibilities
With compelling theories about the nature of consciousness, honest reflections on grief and transformative tools to create a deep connection with the signs around you, let this book empower you to trust your instincts and thrive like never before.
'A tribute to consciousness, to connection and to those we’ve lost. This is more than a book, it’s a healing experience.’ – Jay Shetty, bestselling author of Think Like a Monk and 8 Rules of Love
'A powerful blend of science, intuition and mystery’ – Mel Robbins, bestselling author of The Let Them Theory and The 5 Second Rule
Have you ever experienced a coincidence that felt too unlikely to be true? Or have you seen or heard something that seemed to be a message from a lost loved one?
It’s all too easy to dismiss synchronicities or signs like these as chance. But what if they weren’t? And what if, by learning to tune into them, you could access a guiding wisdom that would help you overcome challenges and live with purpose?
In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart draws on her experience of grieving her beloved husband to explain how. Bringing together breathtaking real-life stories with teachings from cognitive science, near-death experiences and much more, she’ll show you how
Tap into your most important decision-making tool – your intuitionBreak free from the distractions and stress of modern life and focus on what matters mostShift your mindset from fixed thinking to openness and wonder, so you can see life’s limitless possibilities
With compelling theories about the nature of consciousness, honest reflections on grief and transformative tools to create a deep connection with the signs around you, let this book empower you to trust your instincts and thrive like never before.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
167 people are currently reading
1820 people want to read
About the author
Tara Swart
20 books299 followersDr Tara Swart is a neuroscientist and former psychiatric doctor. She is a senior lecturer at MIT Sloan and visiting senior lecturer at Kings College London, and an executive advisor to some of the world's most respected leaders in media and business. 'The Source' is Tara's third book - she is also lead author of the award-winning 'Neuroscience for Leadership', and co-author of 'An Attitude for Acting'. In 2016 she was named the world's first Neuroscientist-in-Residence at Corinthia Hotel, London, and she is currently in residence at Annabel's private members club, running a series of wellbeing events. She is passionate about teaching others how to apply lessons from cognitive science to enhance everyday lives. Find out more at www.taraswart.com
"The Source by Tara Swart, MD, PhD marries universal truths with scientific rigor for a persuasive, important exploration of The Law of Attraction." - Deepak Chopra MD
"Tara Swart is an extremely calming presence, all the more so for being palpably intelligent. Her brain appears to require no boosting. I'd sign up in an eye blink... I like her - a lot" - Hannah Betts, The Times
"Dr Tara Swart is friendly, charming, and knows what she's talking about. Having qualified as a doctor, then trained as a neuroscientist, she worked as a psychiatrist before going into private practice as a highly sought-after expert to the rich and famous" - Janet Street-Porter, Daily Mail
"Neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart works with some of the City's highest-earning and most respected leaders in finance, law and media." - Evening Standard
"Dr Swart has become one of the most prominent voices in the field of neuroscience and currently runs her own leadership programme at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as well as being a visiting professor at the University of Oxford's Said Business School. She counts among her clients some of the biggest names in business: banks, hedge funds, FTSE 100 companies, Magic Circle law firms and one major media company, coaching those in leadership positions to better manage any psychopathic tendencies and foster a more benevolent workplace culture. In person she is a diminutive yet formidable figure, immaculately dressed and with a keen eye on the behaviour of all those around her." - Joe Shute, The Telegraph
"The Source by Tara Swart, MD, PhD marries universal truths with scientific rigor for a persuasive, important exploration of The Law of Attraction." - Deepak Chopra MD
"Tara Swart is an extremely calming presence, all the more so for being palpably intelligent. Her brain appears to require no boosting. I'd sign up in an eye blink... I like her - a lot" - Hannah Betts, The Times
"Dr Tara Swart is friendly, charming, and knows what she's talking about. Having qualified as a doctor, then trained as a neuroscientist, she worked as a psychiatrist before going into private practice as a highly sought-after expert to the rich and famous" - Janet Street-Porter, Daily Mail
"Neuroscientist Dr Tara Swart works with some of the City's highest-earning and most respected leaders in finance, law and media." - Evening Standard
"Dr Swart has become one of the most prominent voices in the field of neuroscience and currently runs her own leadership programme at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as well as being a visiting professor at the University of Oxford's Said Business School. She counts among her clients some of the biggest names in business: banks, hedge funds, FTSE 100 companies, Magic Circle law firms and one major media company, coaching those in leadership positions to better manage any psychopathic tendencies and foster a more benevolent workplace culture. In person she is a diminutive yet formidable figure, immaculately dressed and with a keen eye on the behaviour of all those around her." - Joe Shute, The Telegraph
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
September 22, 2025
I really love Dr Tara Swart in interviews, I think she is incredibly inspiring and has really opened my eyes to a lot of things. I also really enjoyed her first book so was excited to pre-order this book - especially on a topic I believe so strongly in. I have heard her being interviewed about this book on her press tour and loved the idea and premise. However, I was left really disappointed in the book itself.
I felt that it was very long winded and 'waffly' - I wanted it to get to the main points, but it seemed to go around the houses a lot before we got there.
I switched off at times, something I never do when hearing her talk in interviews.
Not sure how much I actually got from this book because of that reason.
I felt that it was very long winded and 'waffly' - I wanted it to get to the main points, but it seemed to go around the houses a lot before we got there.
I switched off at times, something I never do when hearing her talk in interviews.
Not sure how much I actually got from this book because of that reason.
September 27, 2025
Like others, I picked this up after the Diary of a CEO Podcast. I thought on the podcast that the author’s positionality as a doctor and neuroscientist was compelling. Unfortunately this just isn’t a very good book. Much of it is superficial.
September 22, 2025
This was my first audio book, which ended up being very relevant to my daily walks, especially the chapter on nature.
I was fascinated by learning more about the brain & things I hadn't even considered, like how it copes with the feel of clothes on the skin, which also made me think of neurodivergent and how we can often be more prone to clothes not feeling comfortable, cutting out labels etc.
I believe that although I have a quite scientific brain , I am also more open to the spiritual aspects, having had a few of my own signs over the years.
It's definitely a book to make you realise the consequences of the current constructs of life on the human race & how we have lost many of the attributes that made us hunters / gatherers. Having years now spent every day enjoying an hours walk around different places, it helps with my own mental health, so I wholly agree with the author.
I think everyone could find some takeaways from this book!
I was fascinated by learning more about the brain & things I hadn't even considered, like how it copes with the feel of clothes on the skin, which also made me think of neurodivergent and how we can often be more prone to clothes not feeling comfortable, cutting out labels etc.
I believe that although I have a quite scientific brain , I am also more open to the spiritual aspects, having had a few of my own signs over the years.
It's definitely a book to make you realise the consequences of the current constructs of life on the human race & how we have lost many of the attributes that made us hunters / gatherers. Having years now spent every day enjoying an hours walk around different places, it helps with my own mental health, so I wholly agree with the author.
I think everyone could find some takeaways from this book!
February 16, 2026
I purchased this book after listening to Dr. Tara Stewart's interview at Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett, as I was intrigued to understand more about The Signs.
Unfortunately, what was explained on the book didn't resonate with me, so I DNF'd it after 20% aprox.
This doesn't mean that it's a bad book or that the information isn't valid. Perhaps you'll love it.
Happy reading 📚
Unfortunately, what was explained on the book didn't resonate with me, so I DNF'd it after 20% aprox.
This doesn't mean that it's a bad book or that the information isn't valid. Perhaps you'll love it.
Happy reading 📚
October 4, 2025
I was looking forward to reading this book, as I find its premise extremely interesting. Unfortunately, the intellectual dishonesty of the author ruined it for me. Having a PhD does not give someone the authority to pass personal beliefs as scientific truths (e.g. tarot cards, angels etc.).
October 29, 2025
It was very moving to listen to the author's beautifully soothing voice, and had I not listened to a lot of her interviews on You Tube already, I'd have come away with many more new ideas.
Overall though I loved how it opened my mind, and made me think differently about death and the possibility of an afterlife.
Overall though I loved how it opened my mind, and made me think differently about death and the possibility of an afterlife.
December 11, 2025
Go give yourselves a massive big hug by reading this truly BRILLIANT book, I truly just you not ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
December 26, 2025
Dr. Tara Swart gelingt es, Intuition und Wahrnehmung durch die Brille der Neurowissenschaft zu erklären und das Thema so aus der rein esoterischen Ecke zu holen. Nachdem ich sie in einem Gesundheitspodcast gehört hatte, war ich gespannt auf ihren Ansatz. Die Mischung aus fundierten Studien, persönlichen Berichten und gezielten Achtsamkeitsübungen ist sehr gelungen und praxisnah. Dr. Swart macht dabei gut verständlich deutlich, warum wir oft in rein rationalen und materialistischen Denkmustern gefangen sind und wie wir uns öffnen können, um wieder mehr Raum für das Nicht-Greifbare zu schaffen. Eine wertvolle Inspiration für alle, die nach neuen Impulsen für mehr Spiritualität suchen, ohne dabei auf wissenschaftliche Fundierung verzichten zu wollen.
November 26, 2025
I love this combination of science and spirituality and have always felt deeply connected to the universe through the subtle signs I’ve gotten through my life. Dr Swart writes so beautifully about ultimately connecting with ourselves to tap into our intuition. I like how she talks about taking what will be helpful to us and leaving what isn’t, meaning that everyone can get something out of this book to improve our connection to ourselves and the world. Possibly the book of 2025 for me!
January 5, 2026
As soon as I heard her on the Diary of a CEO podcast where she stated her experience with grief and how she was able to communicate with the dead, and that she had scientific backing, I was excited to read this book. I had been struggling to continue a relationship with my late mother, and I was increasingly feeling as I was losing her voice in my head.
This book fell short, mostly on the writing front. I think what Tara Swart covers in the book could have been covered in 120-130 pages, instead of the current 200. A lot of ideas are repeated, and many a times the connections, causes and benefits are all intertwined. The lack of brevity in writing is its biggest pitfall.
Apart from that, it was an okay-ish read and I will definitely be trying some of the things she mentions. However, there is no amazing scientific breakthrough here. All of it is what we already know as a culture, these are ideas and beliefs that ancient cultures have held for millenia. It's regurgitated in a way that connects everything to "signs", which is the tool Swart uses to communicate with her late husband.
While the first third of the book still deals with themes of death, near death, grief, the next two thirds are extremely generic. Ultimately, (according to the author) because being a healthy human being (physically, mentally and spiritually) helps us to access these "signs", much of the book is about how we can live a rich and meaningful, wellness-oriented life. Whether or not you've lost someone, everyone can benefit from this section of the book.
I only hope that there is actual advancement in our understanding of consciousness, death and an afterlife (if there is one), during my lifetime. Or maybe I'll find out in my afterlife? :)
This book fell short, mostly on the writing front. I think what Tara Swart covers in the book could have been covered in 120-130 pages, instead of the current 200. A lot of ideas are repeated, and many a times the connections, causes and benefits are all intertwined. The lack of brevity in writing is its biggest pitfall.
Apart from that, it was an okay-ish read and I will definitely be trying some of the things she mentions. However, there is no amazing scientific breakthrough here. All of it is what we already know as a culture, these are ideas and beliefs that ancient cultures have held for millenia. It's regurgitated in a way that connects everything to "signs", which is the tool Swart uses to communicate with her late husband.
While the first third of the book still deals with themes of death, near death, grief, the next two thirds are extremely generic. Ultimately, (according to the author) because being a healthy human being (physically, mentally and spiritually) helps us to access these "signs", much of the book is about how we can live a rich and meaningful, wellness-oriented life. Whether or not you've lost someone, everyone can benefit from this section of the book.
I only hope that there is actual advancement in our understanding of consciousness, death and an afterlife (if there is one), during my lifetime. Or maybe I'll find out in my afterlife? :)
January 29, 2026
I listened to this book on audiobook. The author uses a lot of stories to convey her message, which I enjoy. I found it eye opening and inspiring. Would definitely recommend for anyone interested in spirituality.
March 13, 2026
Nice book on the topic of signs and intuition. The author shares her personal story in length before going on to the more technical part of the book. It was ok for me but it might put some people off. I was expecting a more comprehensive review of data from neuroscience but overall a nice read.
March 3, 2026
Not really what I was expecting. Told me nothing I didn’t really know and made everything needlessly complicated by wrapping it in scientific jargon.
September 17, 2025
Honestly I have read so many books similar to this one that I expected it to be a rehash of the things I have heard before but I was so delighted by The Signs! Dr. Tara Swart has broken down for all of us the simple ways which we can experience our lives on a much deeper level. In today’s world this book and its message are vital. It really takes the smallest changes in our seeing, thinking and understanding to bring a new dimension to our lives. You don’t need “Proof the truth is all in the beliving. I am so grateful for this book as I feel that I had fallen off or away from my signs, maybe questioning if they were real or perhaps I just didn’t deserve them. I was gratefullly reminded that the joy of not knowing but following your instincts opens me up to all of the possibilities that life is always there to give us when we are ready and accepting. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this wonderfully inspiring book.
November 15, 2025
I enjoyed the book and found some of it useful. I think the most important part of this book for me is that, alot of the information is within us but either forgotten or many of us try find a rationalise or try to play thing off as coincidences. In cases like these faith, belief and trust in yourself plays an important part.
These are important lesson to learn or relearn as the case may be. We are too hard on ourselves and tend to try to explain what cannot be explained in some cases.
I think something that I found difficult to relate to this book, is that signs and intuition are very personal things. What someone else sees as a sign might not mean the same thing to me and vice versa. That is why I would look into my own life for similar experiences.
A good book, and great personal journey for Dr Tara Swary, and a good way to help other use this as a map/signpost to find their own way, guidance and possible a connection to something greater.
These are important lesson to learn or relearn as the case may be. We are too hard on ourselves and tend to try to explain what cannot be explained in some cases.
I think something that I found difficult to relate to this book, is that signs and intuition are very personal things. What someone else sees as a sign might not mean the same thing to me and vice versa. That is why I would look into my own life for similar experiences.
A good book, and great personal journey for Dr Tara Swary, and a good way to help other use this as a map/signpost to find their own way, guidance and possible a connection to something greater.
November 18, 2025
After finishing this book, within hours I found two signs (e.g., 2 references to Hamnet--one made by this author and one made by the local newspaper; and another that I can't recall now.).
I enjoyed the premise of the book. The author's approach is very practical and very accessible, do-able. And given her medical/scientific training, she remains clear-minded and "rational." I especially liked her historical and multi-cultural approach. Her advice and suggestions amount to centering oneself, caring for oneself and enjoying one's environment.
I particularly appreciated the many incredible examples of signs that she shared from her life.
Now I'm curious to check out her other title, The Source: The Secrets of the Universe, the Science of the Brain.
I enjoyed the premise of the book. The author's approach is very practical and very accessible, do-able. And given her medical/scientific training, she remains clear-minded and "rational." I especially liked her historical and multi-cultural approach. Her advice and suggestions amount to centering oneself, caring for oneself and enjoying one's environment.
I particularly appreciated the many incredible examples of signs that she shared from her life.
Now I'm curious to check out her other title, The Source: The Secrets of the Universe, the Science of the Brain.
September 18, 2025
I was really looking forward to this book after seeing Dr. Tara on DoaC. While I liked some of the prompts and tales included it didn’t feel like ground-breaking or thought-altering in terms of its approach towards the subject. There was a lot of references to her first novel as well which I didn’t feel was authentic.
March 12, 2026
I read this one for book club with a (semi) open mind, especially because the author is a neuroscientist. I was looking forward to some scientific backing for the idea of "signs," but I couldn’t have been more wrong.
The "signs" the author describes in my opinion are just mere coincidences. For example, she talks about seeing her late husband’s birth date (21/09) on receipts and number plates continuously following his death. If you’re looking for (hell bent on seeing) specific numbers, you’re going to see them everywhere! To present this as "proof" that signs exist just felt completely off to me.
A huge chunk of the book is just basic wellness advice (& scientific backing) which we are already pretty aware of. For Example the benefits of exercise, being out in nature, appreciating beauty and finding your tribe. These are all great for your wellbeing, but the author tries to force a connection by saying that living this way puts you in a "state of mind" to see more signs. It felt very thin and didn't actually connect the science to the 'signs' at all. It was also quite repetitive and prescriptive in places. I actually gave up on the book at 50%, then had a change of heart and decided to finish it - wrong decision.
The "signs" the author describes in my opinion are just mere coincidences. For example, she talks about seeing her late husband’s birth date (21/09) on receipts and number plates continuously following his death. If you’re looking for (hell bent on seeing) specific numbers, you’re going to see them everywhere! To present this as "proof" that signs exist just felt completely off to me.
A huge chunk of the book is just basic wellness advice (& scientific backing) which we are already pretty aware of. For Example the benefits of exercise, being out in nature, appreciating beauty and finding your tribe. These are all great for your wellbeing, but the author tries to force a connection by saying that living this way puts you in a "state of mind" to see more signs. It felt very thin and didn't actually connect the science to the 'signs' at all. It was also quite repetitive and prescriptive in places. I actually gave up on the book at 50%, then had a change of heart and decided to finish it - wrong decision.
March 12, 2026
I appreciated the glimpse into the author's life and the stories of others that she shared. I also like the emphasis on the science behind what is typically called woo-woo. I wish this had been available years ago before I learned much of its wisdom from other sources. If you're starting on the path of receiving signs, this is a great book. If you're already somewhat experienced, this may feel rudimentary. It's well written and not too long to find into your reading. Be prepared to feel underwhelmed on take-aways.
December 12, 2025
I needed to read this book after a major family loss and it helped. I'm grateful to the friend who recommended it!
January 4, 2026
Enjoyed the audiobook and her voice is lovely. Great book.
March 8, 2026
Great book! Very informative and interesting. I really enjoyed it and there were great facts inside.
March 20, 2026
I have absolutely entered my spiritual era
March 25, 2026
This book felt incredibly comforting to read. It explores the idea that signs, intuition, and meaningful coincidences might not just be things we imagine, but something we can learn to notice and understand more deeply. What I appreciated most is that Tara Swart approaches the subject in a thoughtful and encouraging way. Rather than telling you what to believe, she gently guides you to become more aware, present, and open to the subtle signs that might already be around you.
Since my mum passed, I’ve only felt like I’ve received one small sign, a robin. Reading this book made me feel hopeful that maybe it’s not about forcing signs to appear, but learning how to be more attuned to them when they do.
A really comforting and reflective read that leaves you feeling a little more open to the quiet ways the universe might communicate with us.
Since my mum passed, I’ve only felt like I’ve received one small sign, a robin. Reading this book made me feel hopeful that maybe it’s not about forcing signs to appear, but learning how to be more attuned to them when they do.
A really comforting and reflective read that leaves you feeling a little more open to the quiet ways the universe might communicate with us.
October 19, 2025
This was great. Recommended for those with an open mind!
March 7, 2026
I enjoyed a few of the chapters, however I found the author frequently requesting signs to be unsettling.
I believe that there's lots out there that we don't yet know and that we can benefit from keeping an open mind to the wonders of nature, spirituality etc. However, I found Tara's anecdotes about her experiences to be a bit forced or manufactured.
I believe that there's lots out there that we don't yet know and that we can benefit from keeping an open mind to the wonders of nature, spirituality etc. However, I found Tara's anecdotes about her experiences to be a bit forced or manufactured.
December 12, 2025
So eye opening !! Wow.
Literally already seeing my signs in my life since listening to this
Literally already seeing my signs in my life since listening to this
February 1, 2026
Like many others, I got excited about this book after listening to the podcast with Steven Bartlett, where Tara Swart introduced the idea of the book. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much in it besides the idea. I think I was looking for a more scientific approach of explaining or even recounting historical accounts of people experiencing signs from the universe but what I got was a repeat of her autobiography where she personally experienced signs from the universe and from her late husband. I think for anyone who believes in the universe giving signs to them, there is nothing revelationary about it, which is a bit of a disappointment because the premise of the book was very promising.
February 25, 2026
Love the bridge of science and spirituality! Enjoyed hearing her experiences and story. Eastern approaches coming back 🫶
October 9, 2025
I just finished The Signs by Tara Swart. I appreciate that Tara opened up about the loss of her second husband and the powerful signs she received from him and others. Those personal stories felt heartfelt and profound.
I also liked that she shared practical tools to help strengthen intuition…things like breathwork, mindfulness, and how to tune into your instincts. She also touched on therapies like somatic work, craniosacral therapy, tai chi, and qigong, which I found interesting.
However, I didn’t fully connect with her writing style. It felt quite dry and filled with medical and scientific terms that made it hard to follow. I often had to pause and Google things to understand what she meant. Because of that, I couldn’t stay deeply engaged with the book at times.
Still, I took away a few fascinating insights like how stress can block our ability to notice intuitive signs, and how the gut-brain connection and microbiome play a role in our intuition and overall well-being. I also found the examples of “super smellers” and the idea of our body’s hidden wisdom really intriguing.
Overall, I appreciate the intention behind this book and the tools Tara offered, but it didn’t resonate with me emotionally the way I hoped it would. I think readers who enjoy a more scientific and medical approach to spirituality and intuition might connect with it more than I did.
I also liked that she shared practical tools to help strengthen intuition…things like breathwork, mindfulness, and how to tune into your instincts. She also touched on therapies like somatic work, craniosacral therapy, tai chi, and qigong, which I found interesting.
However, I didn’t fully connect with her writing style. It felt quite dry and filled with medical and scientific terms that made it hard to follow. I often had to pause and Google things to understand what she meant. Because of that, I couldn’t stay deeply engaged with the book at times.
Still, I took away a few fascinating insights like how stress can block our ability to notice intuitive signs, and how the gut-brain connection and microbiome play a role in our intuition and overall well-being. I also found the examples of “super smellers” and the idea of our body’s hidden wisdom really intriguing.
Overall, I appreciate the intention behind this book and the tools Tara offered, but it didn’t resonate with me emotionally the way I hoped it would. I think readers who enjoy a more scientific and medical approach to spirituality and intuition might connect with it more than I did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews