Wellness tip: Recognising Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek out and favour information that aligns with our existing beliefs and this can shape our decisions and limit our perspective, often without us even realising it.

Being aware of this bias is crucial, especially in today’s information-saturated world.

When confirmation bias takes hold, we might dismiss evidence that challenges our views or overemphasise data that supports them. This can affect everything from workplace problem-solving to personal relationships, making it harder to learn, grow, and collaborate effectively.

How can you recognise it and combat it?

Question your assumptions

When faced with new information, ask yourself: Am I being objective, or am I only looking for validation? Seek out diverse opinions and perspectives, especially from those who disagree with you. This doesn’t mean abandoning your beliefs but testing them for strength and adaptability.

Practise active listening in conversations

Truly hearing someone out, even when their views differ, encourages empathy and broadens understanding.

Reflect on past decisions

Were they shaped by facts or by a need to confirm your preconceptions? Being mindful of confirmation bias is a powerful step toward clearer thinking and better decision-making, helping you grow as an individual and fostering stronger connections with others.