Objectivity is one of those traits we all like to think we have.
Thats easy, right?
This post originally appeared onFast Company.
The reality iswe all have biases.
We commit cognitive errors all the time, she says.
Oftentimes, we get it wrong.
That lack of objectivity ultimately cost her $1 million.
Bust your biases and get a clearer view by tackling these important steps.
Thornton says we leave clues when were less objective.
Are there topics about which youre particularly argumentative or which get under your skin?
Are there situations where you routinely overreact?
If youre getting agitated or highly emotional, youre probably not thinking rationally or objectively, she says.
They may be colleagues, professionals in other businesses, advisory boards, or directors.
A good way is tosolicit new viewpointsfrom others, Smith also says.
Specifically ask people to share how their views differ.
Saying something like: Heres what Im seeing.
Do you see it differently?
lets people know that youre interested in hearing how their views differ, he says.
Its another form of bias, and can prohibit you from weighing the facts strictly on their merits.
Find her on Twitter@gwenmoran.
Image byHo Yeow Hui(Shutterstock).
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