Today, we’re talking about the Self-Serving Bias.
Self-serving bias refers to the tendency to attribute positive outcomes to one’s own abilities and efforts, while blaming negative outcomes on external factors. This bias is often driven by the need to protect self-esteem and maintain a positive self-image.
Imagine a person who has been attending dance classes for several months. If they perform well in a dance competition, they may proudly attribute their success to their natural talent and hard work. However, if they perform poorly, they might shift the blame onto external factors—such as unfair judges, inadequate preparation time, or the difficulty of the routine—rather than acknowledging their own shortcomings.
This is a classic example of self-serving bias in action. By taking credit for their achievements and externalising their failures, the individual maintains a positive self-image. While this bias can bolster self-confidence and motivation, it can also become a barrier to learning and improvement. If individuals consistently deflect responsibility for their mistakes, they miss valuable opportunities for self-reflection and growth.
I’ve encountered this mindset more times than I can count. Many people with self-serving tendencies express a firm belief in their abilities, and while this confidence may help them get ahead, it often comes with a distorted sense of self-worth. Sometimes, it feels as though they expect the world to align with their self-perception, regardless of external realities. And while self-belief is a powerful tool, it’s equally important to recognise that we can’t excel at everything all at once and that others’ opinions or feedback may not always align with our own perspectives.
To sum it up:
While self-serving bias can provide the confidence needed to push through challenges, it must be tempered with self-awareness. A healthy balance between self-assurance and humility allows us to strive for success without becoming delusionally optimistic. Understanding that our personal character and the qualities we exhibit—such as resilience, adaptability, and humility—are essential to long-term success is critical. We must remain realistic yet aspirational, using failures as learning moments rather than dismissing them as misfortune. Cultivating an honest, grounded outlook enables us to pursue our goals with both clarity and purpose.
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