Stating Biases

Of late, I’m working hard to ensure I qualify my opinions with my biases. This happens naturally at work because every presentation or data crunch is preceded by assumptions. The way I see it, assumptions are to analysis what biases are to opinions.

And stating my biases helps me in three ways.

First, it reminds me that I have my own (strong) biases and my opinions would be different if these biases were different.

Second, I take my own opinions less seriously because these biases are subject to change.

Finally, it helps the person on the other side. Thanks to having strong opinions that are subject to change, it leads to people feeling less disoriented. (What? Didn’t you just say the exact opposite 6 months ago?)

All in all, it’s something that just seems to be adding value, and is a habit I hope to keep up.