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Checking your blind spots

Writer's picture: Peter TeuscherPeter Teuscher


When driving a car we are taught to check our blindspots, these are things that are outside our normal field of vision. Checking blind spots gives us a better awareness of our surroundings and helps avoid accidents.  Within our thinking and mental models we also have blind spots.  We see the world in a certain way but don’t consider some aspects which can lead to errors in perception and judgement.  When fail to notice what we are missing as we interpret the world around us we may make poor decisions.  


Our blind spots stem from a lack of awareness and are fuelled by our biases and external influences.   No one can be an expert on everything so everyone has blind spots in some areas of life.  But it is often those who think they are well informed who can sometimes have some unexpected blind spots.  People in positions of power or great wealth sometimes have significant blind spots because they have surrounded themselves with “yes men” or may be influenced by people around them who have hidden agendas.  Those with very high self-confidence may develop blind spots through their own hubris.  


Your blind spots may not be affecting decisions that affect a corporation or a nation, but they can affect numerous areas of your life. Maybe you are missing something that is negatively impacting your relationship or if you are a parent it could be impacting your children.  Blind spots in how your lifestyle is affecting your health can have serious consequences. Wherever things are not working out for you there is probably something you are missing. 


To reduce your blind spots there are some good habits you can develop.  Check your assumptions and review your mental models. Surround yourself with diverse opinions and when confronted with a difficult decision look for a third way.  Find people in your life who are willing to challenge you and hold up a mirror to help you check your blind spots. No matter if a coach, a counsellor, a mentor, or a good friend, those who raise our awareness help us check our blind spots.  This will help you make choices that lead to more success and happiness.

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