I’ve come to realise that our brains often resist information that contradicts what we already believe. This can make it tough to consider different perspectives, especially when we’re convinced we’re in the right!

To counter this, I’ve explored an exercise where I actively consider the opposite of my current beliefs. The process starts with summarising why I’m certain about my position on a particular issue. Then, I challenge myself to brainstorm all the possible reasons why I might be wrong. It’s not easy—my brain naturally resists—but by stepping into someone else’s shoes, I gain new insights and see things I might have missed.

After completing this exercise, I reflect on what I’ve learned and think about the actions I could take as a result. Whether it’s apologising to someone, seeking more information, or feeling more confident in my decision, the goal is to make better, more balanced choices.

By thinking the opposite, I’ve discovered that it’s possible to break free from cognitive biases and achieve a deeper understanding of complex issues. Why not give it a try yourself?