Learning & Thinking · Topic

Cognitive Biases

Recognize predictable reasoning shortcuts and design checks against them.

• When Avoiding a Decision: - List Pros and Cons: Write Down Potential Harm fromWhen avoiding a decision: - List pros and cons: Write down potential harm from acting versus not acting. - Ask yourself: "Am I avoiding action because it feels safer, or is it genu
• Stay Sharp: - Take Notes: Write Down Key Points from the Person Speaking BeforeTo stay sharp: - Take notes: Write down key points from the person speaking before you. - Breathe and listen: Avoid rehearsing your own response while someone else is speaking. - R
• When Planning for the Future: - Acknowledge Change: Remind Yourself,When planning for the future: - Acknowledge change: Remind yourself, "I will grow and change in ways I can’t predict." - Set flexible goals: Make plans that can adapt to future ver
• When Predicting Trends: - Ask Yourself:When predicting trends: - Ask yourself: "Could there be sudden changes or breaks in this trend?" - Prepare for shifts: Always consider outliers and unexpected events in planning. -
• When Interacting with Others: - Ask:When interacting with others: - Ask: "What’s unique about this person’s perspective or experience?" - Listen actively: Avoid projecting your own traits or beliefs onto them. - Refl
• When Analyzing Behavior: - Ask for Others:When analyzing behavior: - Ask for others: "What situations might have influenced their actions?" - Ask for yourself: "Am I underestimating my own tendencies in this scenario?" - B
• When Judging Behavior: - for Others: Ask,When judging behavior: - For others: Ask, "What situations might have influenced their actions?" - For yourself: Reflect, "How much of this is about my choices versus circumstances
• Avoid Forgetting the Origins of Social Changes: - Research History: Understand the People andTo avoid forgetting the origins of social changes: - Research history: Understand the people and movements behind societal shifts. - Acknowledge contributors: Highlight individuals
• Avoid over-Relying on AutomationAvoid over-relying on automation. Here’s how: - Verify output: Check if automated results align with your expectations or data. - Stay informed: Learn how the system works to catch
• When Making Decisions: - Pause and Expand: Actively Look for Examples Beyond the MostWhen making decisions: - Pause and expand: Actively look for examples beyond the most recent or visible ones. - Balance sources: Include diverse or older sources of information in
• Avoid Assigning Human Emotions or Traits to Animals, Objects, or ConceptsAvoid assigning human emotions or traits to animals, objects, or concepts. Here’s how: - Question your assumptions: Ask, “Is this object/animal actually feeling this, or am I proje
• When Recalling Visuals: - Focus on Details: Try to Actively Recall Both the ForegroundWhen recalling visuals: - Focus on details: Try to actively recall both the foreground and the background. - Verify: Revisit the original image or scene to compare your memory. - P
• Be Cautious About Assuming Others Agree with YouBe cautious about assuming others agree with you. Here’s how: - Ask instead of assuming: Check in with others about their opinions before concluding they match yours. - Look for di
• When Evaluating a Group: - Pause and Observe:When evaluating a group: - Pause and observe: "Am I judging individuals or the group as a whole?" - Focus on specifics: Look at individual contributions or qualities instead of the
• When Considering a Popular Opinion: - Pause: Ask Yourself,When considering a popular opinion: - Pause: Ask yourself, "Do I agree because it’s popular or because it’s right?" - Analyze: Break down the reasoning behind the opinion. Does it
• Avoid over-Relying on One Tool or MethodAvoid over-relying on one tool or method. Train yourself to explore alternatives: - Ask ‘What’s missing?’: Think about other tools or methods that could help solve the problem. - E
• Avoid Jumping to Conclusions About InterestAvoid jumping to conclusions about interest. Here’s how: - Observe behavior: Look for clear, consistent signals before making assumptions. - Ask directly: If appropriate, communica
• Avoid Overspending by Reframing Small AmountsAvoid overspending by reframing small amounts. Here’s how: - Think in totals: Ask, “How much will this add up to?” - Group small spends: View multiple small expenses as one big exp
• Move Beyond Group-Based AssumptionsMove beyond group-based assumptions. Here’s how: - Gather facts: Get to know the person instead of relying on stereotypes. - Question your bias: Ask, “Am I assuming this because of
• Be Mindful of How Familiarity Affects Your Time EstimatesBe mindful of how familiarity affects your time estimates. Here’s how: - Log travel times: Write down actual times for familiar and unfamiliar routes to compare. - Set realistic ex
• When You’re Tempted to Ignore an Issue: - Ask Yourself:When you’re tempted to ignore an issue: - Ask yourself: "What’s the worst that could happen if I address this now?" - Take a small step: Do one action to start handling the problem
• When Making Decisions with Probabilities: - Stick to the Best Choice: Pick the OptionWhen making decisions with probabilities: - Stick to the best choice: Pick the option with the highest likelihood of success, even if it feels repetitive. - Avoid overthinking: Don
• In Group Discussions: - Encourage: Ask Each Member to Share Unique Perspectives or InformationIn group discussions: - Encourage: Ask each member to share unique perspectives or information. - Facilitate: Guide the conversation to ensure unshared insights are discussed. - Ba
• When Interacting or Making Decisions: - Pause and Reflect:When interacting or making decisions: - Pause and reflect: "Am I acting on assumptions based on someone’s background or appearance?" - Seek diverse input: Surround yourself with pe
• Combat Feelings of Fraudulence: - Keep an Achievement Log: Record Successes, No Matter HowCombat feelings of fraudulence: - Keep an achievement log: Record successes, no matter how small. - Reframe thoughts: Replace "I was just lucky" with "I worked hard for this." - Ta
• Check Whether Familiarity Is Driving a Low-Stakes ChoiceFor an ordinary low-stakes choice, name the familiar default, state the criterion that matters, compare one viable alternative, and keep or change the default for a concrete reason
• Learn to See Objects and Tools Beyond Their Traditional UsesLearn to see objects and tools beyond their traditional uses. Here’s how: - Ask ‘What else?’: Look at an object and think of three ways to use it that are not its usual function. -
• Plan for Decisions When Your Emotions Are Neutral: - Pause Before Reacting: Delay DecisionsPlan for decisions when your emotions are neutral: - Pause before reacting: Delay decisions when you’re feeling overly emotional. - Simulate the other state: Ask yourself, "What wo
• Separate Observed Facts From Assumed IntentWhen an ordinary ambiguous event feels intentional, separate the observable facts from your interpretation, list plausible alternatives, check relevant information, and use a neutr
• Run a Disconfirming-Evidence CheckState one claim precisely, define what evidence would make you less confident, inspect relevant credible evidence, and update the decision if the evidence warrants it.
• Step Outside Your Comfort Zone by Questioning the Default: - Ask Why: “why DoStep outside your comfort zone by questioning the default: - Ask why: “Why do I stick with this option? Is it really the best?” - Experiment: Try a small change to see what happens
• Actively Question Gender StereotypesActively question gender stereotypes. Here’s how: - Notice biases: Be aware of assumptions you make based on gender. - Think beyond roles: Focus on skills and qualities instead of
• Counterexample CheckWhen a statement uses words such as always, never, everyone, or nothing, look for one genuine exception before treating it as a rule.
• In Group Discussions: - Ask Questions:In group discussions: - Ask questions: "Have we considered other perspectives?" - Encourage dissent: Create a safe space for alternative viewpoints. - Pause before deciding: Sugges
• When Expecting the Worst: - Look for Evidence: Ask,When expecting the worst: - Look for evidence: Ask, "What facts support this prediction, and what contradicts it?" - Test your assumption: Take a small action to see if things are
• When Thinking About Other Groups: - Pause Assumptions: Ask Yourself,When thinking about other groups: - Pause assumptions: Ask yourself, "Am I generalizing based on the group?" - Get personal: Interact with individuals from the group to learn about
• When Assigning Blame: - Pause: Ask,When assigning blame: - Pause: Ask, "Am I blaming more because the outcome was worse?" - Separate outcome from intent: Focus on actions, not just consequences. - Avoid personal fil
• After Making a Decision: - Be Honest: Reflect on Whether Your Choice Truly DeliveredAfter making a decision: - Be honest: Reflect on whether your choice truly delivered the results you hoped for. - Compare alternatives: Consider how other options might have played
• Handle Long Lists: - Chunk It: Break the List into Smaller Groups of 3–5To handle long lists: - Chunk it: Break the list into smaller groups of 3–5 items. - Prioritize: Focus on the most important items first. - Use categories: Group similar items toge
• Improve Judgment: - Break It Down: Divide Events into Clear, Mutually Exclusive PartsTo improve judgment: - Break it down: Divide events into clear, mutually exclusive parts. - Add them up: Compare individual probabilities to the total likelihood. - Check your math
• Check a Streak Before Treating It as a PatternWhen a short streak looks meaningful, record the complete observation window and denominator, compare the cluster with the broader history, check whether measurement or operating c
• Keep Memories Accurate: - Write Details Down: Capture Events as Soon as Possible toTo keep memories accurate: - Write details down: Capture events as soon as possible to avoid losing information. - Check for gaps: Ask yourself what might be missing in your memory
• When Safety Increases: - Assess Risks: Ask,When safety increases: - Assess risks: Ask, "Am I compensating for safety by taking unnecessary risks?" - Set boundaries: Stick to cautious habits even in safer environments. - Foc
• Stress-Test a Belief With Strong Counter-InformationWrite the specific claim you currently accept, note the strongest support you have, seek credible information that could challenge it, compare relevance and independence, then keep
• When You're Feeling Overly Confident in Your Abilities: - Ask for Feedback: Seek OpinionsWhen you're feeling overly confident in your abilities: - Ask for feedback: Seek opinions from others who have more experience. - Compare to standards: Look at benchmarks or exampl
• Before You Commit to a Judgment, Consider the OppositeWhen a judgment matters and you already feel convinced, deliberately generate a plausible explanation, evidence pattern, or outcome that would point the other way. Use it as a bias
• When Reflecting on Your Past: - Write It Down: Keep a Journal of KeyWhen reflecting on your past: - Write it down: Keep a journal of key events and your thoughts at the time. - Ask others: Check your memories against those who were present. - Stay
• Retrieve Memories: - Recreate the Setting: Recall the Sights, Sounds, and Smells of theTo retrieve memories: - Recreate the setting: Recall the sights, sounds, and smells of the original context. - Use prompts: Bring objects or tools from the original environment to
• When Dealing with Misinformation: - Fact-Check: Verify the Source of Any Information Before AcceptingWhen dealing with misinformation: - Fact-check: Verify the source of any information before accepting it. - Mentally replace: Once corrected, actively focus on the updated informat
• Use All Relevant Knowledge Across FieldsUse all relevant knowledge across fields. Here’s how: - Pull from different domains: Think about how skills or insights from one area apply to another. - Ask diverse opinions: Invo
• Reframe Losses to Focus on Long-Term GainsReframe losses to focus on long-term gains. Steps: - Shift your mindset: Ask, “What could I gain by letting this go?” - Run the numbers: Focus on data, not emotions. - Take small r
• When Using Numerical Data: - Ask Yourself:When using numerical data: - Ask yourself: "Does this data apply to this specific situation?" - Double-check assumptions: Ensure the numbers make sense in the new context. - Explor
• When Making a Decision, Don’t Shy Away from Unknown ProbabilitiesWhen making a decision, don’t shy away from unknown probabilities. Here’s how to approach it: - Gather information: Reduce ambiguity by learning more about your options. - Compare
• Stay Aware of Your Own Subjectivity: - Ask for Outside Input: Get Diverse OpinionsStay aware of your own subjectivity: - Ask for outside input: Get diverse opinions to challenge your perspective. - Play devil’s advocate: Argue against your own view to test its s
• When Reviewing Past Events: - Ask Yourself:When reviewing past events: - Ask yourself: "Did I really know this beforehand, or is it hindsight talking?" - Write down predictions: Track what you think will happen before event
• Remember More Effectively: - Think Deeply: Relate New Info to Something Personal or MeaningfulTo remember more effectively: - Think deeply: Relate new info to something personal or meaningful. - Visualize: Picture concepts or create mental stories about them. - Engage activ
• Audit a Default Before Letting It Decide for YouFor a setting, subscription, workflow, or template with meaningful consequences, identify the current default, compare the relevant alternatives, and make a deliberate keep-or-chan
• Prioritize Future Gains over Instant GratificationPrioritize future gains over instant gratification. Here’s how: - Visualize future benefits: Imagine how your future self will thank you. - Delay small rewards: Practice waiting 5–
• Test Your Ideas by Looking for Disconfirming EvidenceTest your ideas by looking for disconfirming evidence. Here’s how: - Consider alternatives: Ask, “What other explanations could fit this situation?” - Test opposites: Try experimen
• When Someone Shares Their Pain: - Pause Judgments: Avoid Assuming They’re ExaggeratingWhen someone shares their pain: - Pause judgments: Avoid assuming they’re exaggerating. - Reflect on your experience: Remember times when your pain felt real but others doubted it.
• Challenge Yourself to See Things ObjectivelyChallenge yourself to see things objectively. Try this: - Ask yourself: “If I didn’t own this, how much would I pay for it?” - Get outside opinions: Others might value things diffe
• When Recalling or Estimating: - Use Actual Data: Base Your Judgment on Numbers orWhen recalling or estimating: - Use actual data: Base your judgment on numbers or facts rather than instinct. - Check extremes: Ask if you’re underestimating highs or overestimatin
• When Reflecting on Past Events: - List the Facts: Write Down Both Positive andWhen reflecting on past events: - List the facts: Write down both positive and negative aspects of the memory. - Get perspective: Talk to others who shared the experience to balanc
• When Considering an Opinion or Advice: - Ask Yourself:When considering an opinion or advice: - Ask yourself: "Am I agreeing because of the person or because of the evidence?" - Check the facts: Verify the information independently, re
• When Evaluating External Ideas: - Ask:When evaluating external ideas: - Ask: "Is this idea or product effective, regardless of where it came from?" - Compare: Assess its potential objectively against internal solutions
• When You Hear Something Repeated: - Ask:When you hear something repeated: - Ask: "Is this backed by evidence or just popular belief?" - Research: Find original sources and verify the information. - Stay skeptical: Avoid
• Stay Objective When Analyzing OutcomesStay objective when analyzing outcomes. Here’s how: - Double-check results: Revisit your data or conclusions to ensure they’re free from personal bias. - Involve others: Get a seco
• Focus on the Quality of an Experience, Not Just Its DurationFocus on the quality of an experience, not just its duration. Here’s how: - Reflect on highlights: Ask, “What made this moment meaningful?” - Avoid obsessing over length: Long does
• Be Wary of Repeated Statements: - Fact-Check: Look up Evidence for Claims You’ve HeardBe wary of repeated statements: - Fact-check: Look up evidence for claims you’ve heard multiple times. - Question familiarity: Ask, "Do I believe this because it’s true or just bec
• Stay Balanced: - Acknowledge Both Sides: Write About Unpleasant Memories Alongside the Positive OnesTo stay balanced: - Acknowledge both sides: Write about unpleasant memories alongside the positive ones. - Reflect intentionally: Spend time thinking about what you learned from di
• Stay Sharp: - Double-Check: Look up Facts You Think YouTo stay sharp: - Double-check: Look up facts you think you "just know." - Ask questions: Challenge statements that feel familiar but unverified. - Don’t repeat unverified info: Sha
• Create Great Memories: - Finish Strong: End Tasks or Experiences with Something PositiveTo create great memories: - Finish strong: End tasks or experiences with something positive. - Celebrate small wins: After completing a tough task, reward yourself with something e
• Fix Time Distortions: - Use Anchors: Connect Events to Specific Dates or MilestonesTo fix time distortions: - Use anchors: Connect events to specific dates or milestones. - Journal regularly: Write down events as they happen to track their timing. - Review your c
• Remember All Items: - Avoid Splitting Lists: Keep the Whole List in View WhenTo remember all items: - Avoid splitting lists: Keep the whole list in view when reviewing. - Use categories: Organize items into groups to make them easier to recall. - Quiz yours
• Stop Seeing Yourself as Complex and Others as PredictableStop seeing yourself as complex and others as predictable. Here’s how: - Practice empathy: Imagine how someone else’s day, mood, or challenges might influence their actions. - Ask
• When Making Future Plans: - Pause: Ask,When making future plans: - Pause: Ask, "Will future me feel the same way?" - Imagine different scenarios: Consider how changes in mood, priorities, or environment might affect you
• Remember Better: - Create Your Own Notes: Instead of Copying, Rephrase in Your OwnTo remember better: - Create your own notes: Instead of copying, rephrase in your own words. - Teach someone else: Explaining ideas reinforces your understanding. - Summarize: Gene
• Practice Compassion for Groups, Not Just IndividualsPractice compassion for groups, not just individuals. Here’s how: - Humanize the numbers: Imagine the faces behind statistics to connect emotionally. - Zoom out: Remind yourself th
• Remember Better: - Highlight Differently: Use Bold Colors or Symbols for Key PointsTo remember better: - Highlight differently: Use bold colors or symbols for key points. - Add uniqueness: Attach a quirky story or image to important details. - Group by importance
• When Reviewing Past Events: - List Surprises: Note Things That Were Unexpected at theWhen reviewing past events: - List surprises: Note things that were unexpected at the time. - Avoid ‘should haves’: Focus on decisions made with the information you had then. - Com
• When Asked for Your Opinion: - Be Truthful: Share Your Real Thoughts RespectfullyWhen asked for your opinion: - Be truthful: Share your real thoughts respectfully. - Use tact: Frame criticism constructively ("I think this could be improved by…
• When Reflecting on Outcomes: - Be Honest: Ask,When reflecting on outcomes: - Be honest: Ask, "What role did I really play in this success or failure?" - Balance: Acknowledge both personal effort and external factors. - Learn f
• Remember Better: - Add Humor: When Studying or Taking Notes, Include a Funny Phrase,To remember better: - Add humor: When studying or taking notes, include a funny phrase, drawing, or analogy. - Lighten the mood: Associate dry facts with jokes or funny stories. -
• Challenge Yourself to See Biases in Your Own Thinking, Not Just in OthersChallenge yourself to see biases in your own thinking, not just in others. Here’s how: - Flip the script: Ask, “If someone else thought this way, would I see it as biased?” - Invit
• Train Yourself to Recognize When Your Brain Makes Quick Assumptions Based on Word orTrain yourself to recognize when your brain makes quick assumptions based on word or idea associations. Here’s how: - Pause and check: Ask, “Am I reacting based on a bias or fact?”
• When Considering a New Innovation: - Ask Tough Questions: What Are Its WeaknessesWhen considering a new innovation: - Ask tough questions: What are its weaknesses? Who benefits most from it? - Balance optimism: Imagine both best- and worst-case scenarios. - See
• When Evaluating Actions: - Ask:When evaluating actions: - Ask: "Could this have been an accident or unintentional?" - Look for patterns: One mistake doesn’t indicate intent—watch for repeated behavior. - Check y
• When Evaluating Motivation: - for Others: Ask,When evaluating motivation: - For others: Ask, "Could their actions come from genuine interest, not just external rewards?" - For yourself: Reflect, "Are my actions really driven b
• Review a Decision Using What Was Known at the TimeReconstruct what information was actually available when a decision was made, compare it with the options and constraints considered then, and turn the review into one process impr
• When Judging Groups: - Challenge Assumptions: Ask,When judging groups: - Challenge assumptions: Ask, "Does this apply to all members, or just one person?" - Seek evidence: Look for facts about the group, not just individual action
• When Evaluating Groups: - Ask Yourself:When evaluating groups: - Ask yourself: "Am I judging the group based on one person’s actions?" - Separate individuals: Focus on specific behaviors or contributions, not stereotype
• When Assessing Morality: - Focus on Intent: Ask,When assessing morality: - Focus on intent: Ask, "What was their intention, regardless of the outcome?" - Separate luck from action: Consider how chance influenced the result. - Be
• Challenge Your Understanding of a Topic: - Explain It to Someone Else: Can YouChallenge your understanding of a topic: - Explain it to someone else: Can you simplify it without skipping details? - Ask “why” and “how”: Push yourself to answer deeper questions
• When Working with Metrics: - Ask Yourself:When working with metrics: - Ask yourself: "Is this measure representing the actual goal, or has it become the goal?" - Revisit the strategy: Ensure you understand the broader obje
• When Evaluating Arguments: - Focus on Logic: Ask,When evaluating arguments: - Focus on logic: Ask, "Does this follow from the premises?" instead of, "Do I agree with the conclusion?" - Separate belief from evidence: Analyze wheth
• Avoid Letting Flashy or Emotional Details Overshadow Important but Less Noticeable FactsAvoid letting flashy or emotional details overshadow important but less noticeable facts. Here’s how: - Look beyond the obvious: Ask, “What’s not immediately noticeable but might m
• Be Aware of How Media Affects You, Not Just OthersBe aware of how media affects you, not just others. Here’s how: - Reflect on impact: Ask, “How might this message shape my beliefs or actions?” - Fact-check frequently: Don’t assum
• Retain the Message: - Summarize: Write or Say the Main Idea in Your OwnTo retain the message: - Summarize: Write or say the main idea in your own words. - Look for patterns: Identify recurring themes or key points. - Practice context recall: Remember
• Avoid False Memories: - Validate Facts: Check with Others Involved or Revisit Records (emails,To avoid false memories: - Validate facts: Check with others involved or revisit records (emails, photos, notes). - Stay neutral: Avoid over-analyzing or trying too hard to recall—
• Remember Better: - Listen and Repeat: Say Key Points Aloud After Hearing ThemTo remember better: - Listen and repeat: Say key points aloud after hearing them. - Mix modalities: Write down spoken info or speak aloud written notes. - Review audio: Record impo
• Align Mood and Memory: - Match Your Mood: Study Happy Topics When You’re inTo align mood and memory: - Match your mood: Study happy topics when you’re in a good mood; tackle tough topics when feeling serious. - Recreate the setting: When recalling somethi
• When Assessing Outcomes: - Pause: Ask Yourself,When assessing outcomes: - Pause: Ask yourself, "Could societal factors have contributed here?" - Contextualize: Consider external influences like environment, resources, or circum
• Manage Negative Recall: - List Positives: After a Bad Experience, Write Down at LeastTo manage negative recall: - List positives: After a bad experience, write down at least 3 positive things that happened that day. - Reframe events: Find the silver lining in unple
• Knowing About Biases Doesn’t Automatically Protect YouKnowing about biases doesn’t automatically protect you. Here’s how to act: - Practice self-awareness: Regularly check if biases might be influencing you. - Get external input: Ask
• Train Yourself to See the Whole Picture, Not Just What Aligns with Your ExpectationsTrain yourself to see the whole picture, not just what aligns with your expectations. Here’s how: - Check for blind spots: Ask, “What might I be missing?” - Seek opposing views: Ac
• Be Open to New Ideas, Even When They Challenge Old BeliefsBe open to new ideas, even when they challenge old beliefs. Here’s how: - Question traditions: Ask, “Why do we do it this way? Could there be a better approach?” - Explore the evid
• When Interpreting Behavior: - Pause: Ask Yourself,When interpreting behavior: - Pause: Ask yourself, "Could this be unintentional or neutral?" - Clarify: If unsure, communicate and seek their perspective. - Reflect: Check if past
• When Faced with a Problem: - Ask First:When faced with a problem: - Ask first: "Is action really necessary, or is waiting better?" - Consider the outcomes: Think about what happens if you do nothing. - Break the impulse
• When You Catch Yourself Expecting Extreme Outcomes: - Pause and Evaluate: Ask,When you catch yourself expecting extreme outcomes: - Pause and evaluate: Ask, "Is this prediction realistic, or am I expecting the worst (or best) case scenario?" - Look at past o
• Avoid Overestimating the Present: - Zoom Out: Ask, “will This Matter in a YearTo avoid overestimating the present: - Zoom out: Ask, “Will this matter in a year? Five years?” - Review the past: Compare this moment to similar past events for perspective. - Pla
• When Faced with a Risk: - Compare Effectiveness: Ask,When faced with a risk: - Compare effectiveness: Ask, "Is prevention or response better suited for this situation?" - Estimate cost: Look at resources needed for prevention versus
• Recognize That You and Your Work Are Part of a Larger SystemRecognize that you and your work are part of a larger system. Here’s how: - Compare fairly: Ask, “How similar is my project to others I’ve seen?” - Acknowledge inspiration: Notice
• When Faced with a Big Event: - Ask Yourself:When faced with a big event: - Ask yourself: "Is there solid evidence for a big cause, or am I assuming it because the event is large?" - Break it down: Look at smaller, logical fa
• Harness the Pygmalion Effect: - Encourage: Set Realistic but Optimistic Expectations for OthersTo harness the Pygmalion Effect: - Encourage: Set realistic but optimistic expectations for others. - Support: Provide feedback and resources to help them succeed. - Monitor: Ensur
• When Consuming (eWhen consuming (e.g., food, resources): - Ask yourself: "Do I really need this much, or am I just following the default?" - Adjust portions: Take only what’s appropriate for your n
• When Analyzing Injustice: - Ask:When analyzing injustice: - Ask: "Is this outcome truly deserved, or am I rationalizing it?" - Empathize: Consider factors outside the victim’s control. - Acknowledge reality: The
• When Noticing a Purpose in Random Events: - Ask Yourself:When noticing a purpose in random events: - Ask yourself: "Is there any actual evidence of intention or design here?" - Consider randomness: Some things happen by chance without an
• When Making a Quick Judgment: - Ask Yourself:When making a quick judgment: - Ask yourself: "Am I replacing a complex decision with an easy shortcut?" - Check for oversimplification: Write down what factors you might be ignori
• When Planning or Predicting: - Check Past Outcomes: How Often Have Things Gone asWhen planning or predicting: - Check past outcomes: How often have things gone as perfectly as you imagined? - Prepare for setbacks: Ask, "What could go wrong, and how will I handl
• Recall Early Memories: - Use Triggers: Look at Photos or Listen to Music fromTo recall early memories: - Use triggers: Look at photos or listen to music from your early years. - Ask family: Talk to relatives about events you may have forgotten. - Write it d
• Challenge the Belief That You Understand Others Better Than They Understand YouChallenge the belief that you understand others better than they understand you. Here’s how: - Ask instead of assuming: Engage in conversations to learn how others see you. - Refle
• Pareidolia Makes You See Patterns Where There Are NonePareidolia makes you see patterns where there are none. Train yourself to recognize when it’s happening: - Pause and analyze: When you spot a pattern in something random, ask, “Is
• When Recalling Events: - Use Evidence: Look at Photos, Reports, or Other Objective RecordsWhen recalling events: - Use evidence: Look at photos, reports, or other objective records of what happened. - Ask others: Gather perspectives from those who were there. - Reflect
• When Facing Reactance: - Reframe Requests: Offer Choices Instead of Commands to Reduce ResistanceWhen facing reactance: - Reframe requests: Offer choices instead of commands to reduce resistance. - Empathize: Understand the other person’s need for autonomy and validate their f
• Reduce Stereotypical Bias: - Pause and Question: Before Making Assumptions, Ask Yourself, “what EvidenceTo reduce stereotypical bias: - Pause and question: Before making assumptions, ask yourself, “What evidence do I have?” - Focus on individuals: Get to know people beyond labels and
• When Thinking About the Past and Future: - Challenge Nostalgia: Ask,When thinking about the past and future: - Challenge nostalgia: Ask, "Was the past really better, or is this selective memory?" - Find future positives: List things you’re excited
• When Meeting New People: - Focus on Details: Pay Attention to Unique Features, LikeWhen meeting new people: - Focus on details: Pay attention to unique features, like hairstyle, clothing, or mannerisms. - Make connections: Associate the person with an activity or
• When Tempted by Immediate Rewards: - Pause: Ask Yourself,When tempted by immediate rewards: - Pause: Ask yourself, "What will this choice feel like in a week?" - Compare payoffs: Imagine both short- and long-term benefits. Write them dow
• Be Cautious with Rhyming Phrases: - Analyze Content: Ask,Be cautious with rhyming phrases: - Analyze content: Ask, "Does the rhyme add anything logical, or is it just catchy?" - Test alternatives: Rephrase the statement without the rhyme
• Retrieve All Items: - Rotate Focus: Review All Parts of a List Instead ofTo retrieve all items: - Rotate focus: Review all parts of a list instead of sticking to the first items. - Use triggers: Write down clues to jog your memory for the forgotten part
• Reduce Dependency on Search Engines: - Write Things Down: Jot Key Facts in aTo reduce dependency on search engines: - Write things down: Jot key facts in a notebook or app. - Memorize essentials: Focus on learning critical knowledge by heart. - Quiz yourse
• Be Mindful When Choosing Data or Examples to Avoid Misrepresenting the Whole PictureBe mindful when choosing data or examples to avoid misrepresenting the whole picture. Here’s how: - Check your sample: Ask, “Is this data random and diverse, or is it skewed?” - Se
• Evaluate Options Against Fixed Criteria Before Comparing ThemDefine the must-have criteria first, inspect each option against the same criteria, record unknowns separately, and compare survivors only after the individual evaluations are comp
• Shift Your Focus When Recurring Thoughts Distort Your PerceptionShift your focus when recurring thoughts distort your perception. Here’s how: - Notice the pattern: Ask, “Am I only paying attention to things that match my current thoughts or wor
• When Explaining Something: - Ask Yourself:When explaining something: - Ask yourself: "How would I explain this to someone totally new?" - Use examples: Relate concepts to simple, everyday scenarios. - Encourage questions:
• Manage Time Perception: - Practice Calmness: Breathe Deeply to Slow Things Down When YouTo manage time perception: - Practice calmness: Breathe deeply to slow things down when you feel rushed. - Focus intently: In critical moments, focus on one detail at a time to cre
• Learn to Recognize Vague or Overly General StatementsLearn to recognize vague or overly general statements. Here’s how: - Ask for specifics: If a description feels “too true,” ask, “What exactly do you mean?” - Compare with others: C
• Identify If aIdentify if a "decoy" option is influencing your choice. Here’s how: - Spot the odd one out: Look for an option that seems unnecessary or inferior. - Ask why it's there: Consider i
• Avoid False Connections: - Look for Patterns: Ask Yourself, “is This Really Connected, orTo avoid false connections: - Look for patterns: Ask yourself, “Is this really connected, or just a coincidence?” - Seek evidence: Check if there’s actual data supporting the relat
• Train Yourself to Notice When You’re Focusing Only on Successful Outcomes and Ignoring FailuresTrain yourself to notice when you’re focusing only on successful outcomes and ignoring failures. Here’s how: - Ask about the missing data: Who or what didn’t “survive” the process
• When Forming an Impression: - Ask Yourself:When forming an impression: - Ask yourself: "Am I judging based on one good trait or the full picture?" - Challenge assumptions: Notice if a positive quality is influencing unrelat
• When You Think You’ve Had a Novel Idea: - Pause and Reflect: Ask, “haveWhen you think you’ve had a novel idea: - Pause and reflect: Ask, “Have I encountered this idea before?” - Check sources: Revisit books, articles, or conversations you’ve recently
• Avoid Assuming a Relationship Between Unrelated EventsAvoid assuming a relationship between unrelated events. Here’s how: - Ask for evidence: Before assuming a link, check if data supports the relationship. - Track examples: Write dow
• Resist Suggestibility: - Slow Down: Reflect Before Accepting Others’ Suggestions as TrueTo resist suggestibility: - Slow down: Reflect before accepting others’ suggestions as true. - Seek evidence: Verify claims rather than relying on someone’s framing. - Ask critical
• Review a High-Commitment Continue-or-Stop DecisionFor a commitment with multiple stakeholders, dependencies, or meaningful switching costs, compare future paths explicitly and document which current facts justify the next step.
• Avoid Assuming Something Is Happening More Often Just Because You’ve Noticed It RecentlyAvoid assuming something is happening more often just because you’ve noticed it recently. Here’s how: - Pause before concluding: Ask, “Has this increased, or am I just noticing it
• Stop Underestimating How Long Tasks Will TakeStop underestimating how long tasks will take. Here’s how: - Add buffer time: Whatever you think a task will take, add 50% more time. - Use past experience: Look back at similar ta
• Don’t Overestimate Your Self-ControlDon’t overestimate your self-control. Here’s how: - Remove temptation: Make it harder to give in by keeping distractions or temptations out of reach. - Plan for weak moments: Assum
• When Solving a Problem: - Ask Yourself:When solving a problem: - Ask yourself: "Can something be removed to improve the situation?" - List things to subtract: Write down what’s unnecessary before adding anything new. -
• Stay Positive: - Recall Wins: Write Down 3 Good Things That Happened Each DayTo stay positive: - Recall wins: Write down 3 good things that happened each day. - Reframe negatives: Think about what you learned from a tough situation. - Celebrate progress: Lo
• Unblock Stuck Memories: - Relax: Take Deep Breaths and Stop Stressing over the WordTo unblock stuck memories: - Relax: Take deep breaths and stop stressing over the word or idea. - Use hints: Think of related words, phrases, or contexts. - Distract yourself: Do s
• Avoid Source Confusion: - Keep a Log: Note Where You Heard or Read KeyTo avoid source confusion: - Keep a log: Note where you heard or read key ideas. - Cross-reference: Before sharing information, double-check its accuracy and origin. - Ask yourself
• When Noticing aWhen noticing a "new" trend: - Research its history: Check if this has actually been around for a while. - Ask others: See if someone older or more experienced recognizes it as old
• Challenge Statements You Want to Believe: - Find Counterexamples: Look for Cases Where theChallenge statements you want to believe: - Find counterexamples: Look for cases where the statement doesn’t apply. - Separate desire from reality: Ask, "Do I want this to be true,
• When Using or Observing Tech: - Ask Yourself:When using or observing tech: - Ask yourself: "Am I assuming this tool can do something just because of how it looks?" - Test its functions: Spend time understanding what it’s actu
• When Someone Shares Information: - Ask for Clarity:When someone shares information: - Ask for clarity: "Where did you hear this?" or "What’s the source?" - Cross-check: Verify their claims with other evidence. - Stay neutral: Don’t
• Protect Memory: - Verify Info: Check Facts Before Trusting New Details About an EventTo protect memory: - Verify info: Check facts before trusting new details about an event. - Write it down: Record key facts right after an event to lock them in. - Question changes
• Improve Memory: - Use Visuals: Add Images to Your Notes or PresentationsTo improve memory: - Use visuals: Add images to your notes or presentations. - Sketch ideas: Draw simple visuals to represent complex concepts. - Pair pictures and words: Combine i
• Track Your Income and Satisfaction: - Log Actual Earnings: Write Down Your Wages RegularlyTrack your income and satisfaction: - Log actual earnings: Write down your wages regularly to avoid over- or underestimating. - Note your satisfaction: Reflect on how you feel abou
• Remember Something: - Make It Weird: Add Something Bizarre or Unusual to the IdeaTo remember something: - Make it weird: Add something bizarre or unusual to the idea or fact. - Visualize it vividly: Picture the bizarre element as vividly as possible. - Tell a s
• Challenge Ingrained Systems by Thinking Critically: - List Pros and Cons: What Works andChallenge ingrained systems by thinking critically: - List pros and cons: What works and what doesn’t in the current system? - Imagine alternatives: What would a better version loo
• When Outside or in a Natural Setting: - Pause and Observe: Look for PlantsWhen outside or in a natural setting: - Pause and observe: Look for plants around you—trees, flowers, even weeds. - Ask questions: What purpose do they serve? How do they fit into
• Harness Focus: - Start Small: Begin a Task, Even If You Can’t Finish ItTo harness focus: - Start small: Begin a task, even if you can’t finish it right away. - Use checkpoints: Pause at natural stopping points to keep motivation. - Let it linger: Use