Understanding Cognitive Bias: How It Impacts Everyday Decisions
Author: Wendy Francis, Cognitive Health Coach
Published: May 7, 2025
Cognitive biases are systematic errors in thinking that affect the decisions and judgments we make. These biases can skew our perceptions, lead to poor choices, and even reinforce harmful beliefs. As a brain health and performance coach, I work with individuals to recognize these biases and build more accurate, mindful thinking patterns.
What Is Cognitive Bias?
Cognitive biases are mental shortcuts — often referred to as "heuristics" — that the brain uses to process information quickly. While helpful for efficiency, these shortcuts can lead to faulty logic and irrational decisions. Researchers Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman were pioneers in identifying many of these biases in the 1970s, laying the groundwork for behavioral economics.
Examples of Common Cognitive Biases
- Confirmation Bias: The tendency to search for or interpret information in a way that confirms one’s preexisting beliefs.
- Anchoring Bias: The tendency to rely too heavily on the first piece of information encountered (the "anchor") when making decisions.
- Availability Heuristic: Estimating the likelihood of events based on how easily examples come to mind.
- Negativity Bias: The inclination to give more weight to negative experiences or information than positive ones.
Why It Matters for Your Brain Health
Unchecked cognitive bias can increase stress, limit growth, and hinder clear communication — all of which impact brain health and performance. Becoming aware of these biases gives you more control over your thought patterns and helps develop what psychologists call “metacognition” — thinking about your thinking.
“We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.” — Anaïs Nin
Tips to Overcome Cognitive Bias
- Pause and Reflect: Slow down your thinking, especially when making important decisions.
- Seek Diverse Perspectives: Talk to people who challenge your views. Cognitive diversity sharpens mental flexibility.
- Ask Better Questions: Instead of asking “How am I right?” ask “What might I be missing?”
- Practice Mindfulness: Regular meditation helps you become more aware of your habitual thought patterns.
Final Thoughts
Cognitive bias is part of being human, but with awareness and intention, you can reduce its influence and make more empowered choices. Strengthening your brain means questioning your assumptions, updating your beliefs, and staying curious about how you think.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
Sources
- Tversky, A., & Kahneman, D. (1974). Judgment under Uncertainty: Heuristics and Biases. Science, 185(4157), 1124–1131.
- American Psychological Association. (n.d.). https://www.apa.org
- Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, Fast and Slow. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.