Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you’re not sure about the decisions you’re making, but you’re desperately looking for reasons to validate your current path? It’s something we all do, and it’s called confirmation bias.
Confirmation bias is the tendency to look for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms one’s pre-existing beliefs and decisions. It’s a natural human inclination to seek out evidence that supports our beliefs or decisions while ignoring evidence that doesn’t.
When we’re faced with a decision, no matter how small or big, we tend to become emotionally invested in our choice. As a result, we start looking for reasons to support our decision while minimizing any evidence that contradicts it.
For example, let’s say you’re considering a new job offer that pays more but requires a longer commute. You might start looking for information that supports the convenience of the company’s location, while disregarding the stress and time that may come with a longer commute.
The danger of confirmation bias is that it leads us to make decisions that may not be in our best interest. By only seeking out information that supports our current path, we close ourselves off to new possibilities, potential growth, and opportunity for change.
So, what can we do to avoid falling into the trap of confirmation bias? Here are a few tips:
- Seek out opposing viewpoints – Be open to opinions that challenge your perspective. Listen to people who are on the other side of the spectrum and give their ideas fair consideration. Engage in thoughtful discussions and debates that can help you see different sides of the issue.
- Look for evidence that contradicts your beliefs – Instead of solely looking for information that confirms your beliefs, make a conscious effort to look for evidence to the contrary. This can give you a more balanced view of the situation and help you make a more informed decision.
- Stay objective – This may be difficult, but try to stay objective and avoid getting too emotionally invested in a decision. Take a step back and consider the issue from a fresh perspective. Ask yourself if there is any information you’re ignoring or if there are potential consequences you’re not considering.
At the end of the day, it’s easy to fall into the trap of confirmation bias. Our brains are wired to seek out patterns and connections, but this can sometimes lead us down the wrong path. By being aware of this tendency and taking active steps to avoid it, we can make better decisions that align with our goals and values.
So, my friends, remember to keep an open mind, stay objective, and always be willing to consider alternative viewpoints. Your future self may just thank you for it.
Radley West 