We all like to think we’re rational. We weigh pros and cons, analyze data, and make informed choices. But the truth? Even the smartest people fall into cognitive traps, repeating the same mistakes without realizing it.
Take the sunk cost fallacy, for example. This bias makes us stick with bad decisions simply because we’ve already invested time, money, or effort into them. Ever kept watching a terrible movie just because you paid for the ticket? That’s the sunk cost fallacy in action. Instead of cutting our losses, we dig in deeper, convinced that quitting would mean failure.
Another classic trap is status quo bias—our preference for sticking with what’s familiar, even when change could be beneficial. Whether it’s staying in an unfulfilling job or resisting new technology, our brains crave familiarity over uncertainty, even when it holds us back.
So how do we outsmart our own minds?
- Recognize the bias – Pause before making a decision and ask if hidden biases are influencing you.
- Detach from past investments – Remind yourself that past effort doesn’t justify future losses.
- Embrace discomfort – Growth happens outside the comfort zone. Question what feels “safe” and explore new possibilities.
Understanding biases isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making better choices. The more we recognize our mental blind spots, the more power we have to overcome them.
Want to train your brain to think smarter? Read It’s All BS today!
