From a certain perspective, our minds can be view as extraordinarily complex thought algorithms. Inputs arrive through the senses and are processed by thought into observations, reactions, and decisions.
Like any good algorithm, these thought patterns are often automatic. If we see someone we interpret as threatening, our minds may drop into specific avoidance protocols. If we want to believe something, we’ll pay attention to evidence that supports our preferred narrative while ignoring conflicting accounts.
These mental shortcuts can help us converse resources and create simplified mental models of our complex world, but these models sometimes backfire. When misapplied, cognitive biases can present a skewed view of reality.
Imagine your brain interprets a threat that isn’t there. You might avoid what would otherwise be a positive situation because of an inappropriate, automatic fear response. Maybe your mentor sets up a meeting for you, but you skip it because you’ve misinterpreted its importance due to preconceptions you aren’t aware of.
You can short-circuit inappropriate applications of cognitive biases by cultivating a habit of self-examination. You should question why you think the things you do. You may discover some of the following cognitive biases percolating below your level of awareness.