Loud Thinking November 21, 2013 at 07:18PM
2 Tips for Overcoming Your Blind Spots
We all have blind spots – otherwise known as cognitive biases – but how can we overcome weaknesses which, by definition, we’re unaware of? Start by recognizing that full self-awareness lies at the core of great leadership, and take steps to remove your blinders. To counter the effects of two of the most common biases, use these tactics:
Confirmation bias refers to our tendency, when receiving new information, to process it in a way that it fits our pre-existing narrative about a situation or problem. It’s possible to temper it by challenging and testing your own assumptions – or by enlisting a devil’s advocate to help out.
Hindsight bias causes you to “remember” that a previous decision was simpler than it actually was, impairing your ability to draw accurate conclusions. Check your selective memory by keeping a journal and recording minutes from meetings. When you have written proof, it’s harder to rewrite the past.
Adapted by HBR from “Three Tips For Overcoming Your Blind Spots,” by John Dame and Jeffrey Gedmin.
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