Want to make better decisions? Ask yourself why you keep constantly making bad ones. Ok, it’s not that simple; but this is an example of an approach to short-circuit our habitual ways of thinking. One way we impede ourselves from making better decisions is confirmation bias.

Keeping an open mind and avoiding confirmation bias is crucial in making informed decisions and achieving personal growth. Confirmation bias is a common human tendency where we tend to interpret information in a way that confirms our pre-existing beliefs or opinions while ignoring evidence that contradicts them. This can lead to a narrow-minded approach and limit our ability to see different perspectives and make well-informed decisions.

Here are 10 tactics I use that can help you keep an open mind and avoid confirmation bias:

1. Acknowledge your biases: The first step to avoiding confirmation bias is acknowledging that it exists. Recognize your own biases and try to understand how they influence your thinking.
2. Seek out diverse perspectives and opposing viewpoints: Surround yourself with people who have different viewpoints and engage in open-minded discussions. This can help you gain a broader perspective and expose you to different ideas.
3. Consider the source: Be mindful of the source of the information you are receiving. Are they biased in any way? Do they have a vested interest in the outcome? By considering the source, you can be more discerning about the information you receive.
4. Consider the opposite: When making a decision or forming an opinion, intentionally consider the opposite viewpoint. This can help you identify weaknesses in your own argument and strengthen your position.
5. Question assumptions: Don’t take things at face value. Question your assumptions and seek out evidence that supports or challenges them.
6. Do your research and use data: When making a decision, gather as much information as possible from a variety of sources. Rely on data and objective information rather than just your own opinions or beliefs. This can help you make more well-informed decisions and avoid confirmation bias. Be aware of your sources and try to get information from different perspectives.
7. Avoid echo chambers: Avoid surrounding yourself with people who only agree with you. Seek out dissenting opinions and be open to changing your mind; this is very important in the social media-obsessed world we live in.
8. Be aware of emotional biases: Emotions can cloud judgment and influence decision-making. Be aware of your emotional state and how it may be impacting your thinking. If you find yourself getting emotionally attached to a particular opinion or perspective, take a break from the situation. This can help you come back with a fresh perspective and be more open-minded.
9. Check yourself: Take a step back and observe your thoughts and reactions without judgment. This can help you recognize when you are being influenced by confirmation bias.
10. Challenge yourself: Step outside of your comfort zone and expose yourself to new experiences and ideas. This can help broaden your perspective and challenge your assumptions.

By employing these tactics, you can help keep an open mind and avoid confirmation bias. This can lead to better decision-making and a more well-rounded approach to problem-solving.

What do you think, how do you keep an open mind and avoid confirmation bias?