![dunningkruger.png](https://steemitimages.com/DQmZy7N7BuT8ErF4k1ibvqYsA2ifPBnhvGwQHtEGrc42x7C/dunningkruger.png)

In my previous post, we delved into one of my favorite business-relevant cognitive biases - The Dunning-Kruger Effect. Those who are the least competent are the most sure of themselves while the most competent among us are often wracked in doubt about their abilities. Bertrand Russell, the British philosopher said it best many years ago when he said, *"The problem with the world is that stupid people are cocksure and the intelligent ones are full of doubt."* In this post, let us look at how we can avoid this most pernicious of cognitive biases. 

Is it possible to get a clear picture of your own strengths and weaknesses - to not be overconfident or wracked with self-doubt? [According to professor Dunning himself](https://www.reddit.com/r/science/comments/2m6d68/science_ama_seriesim_david_dunning_a_social/cm1jnlc/?st=jbc6q0za&sh=37426842), there are indeed a few ways to evaluate your competence better.

## 1. "Always Be Learning"
His first suggestion should probably the most obvious to all of us. "Get competent by always learning," urges Dunn.

## 2. Be aware at the start
The Dunning-Kruger Effect is more likely to happen when you're new at something. So the next tip on how to avoid it is to be conscious of the fact that you're new at something and are unlikely to be very good at it. Be extra careful, dot those i's and cross those t's." 

## 3. Take it slow
Unless you have a ton of experience, fast decisions also tend to be biased decisions. Jumping to conclusions and not considering how we might be wrong in our assumptions lead to the DKE. If we are to avoid it, take a step back, and consider how we might be wrong.

## 4. Know when you should be confident
Confidence isn't always a bad thing, Dunning stresses. That said, you want confidence to be grounded in lots of preparatory work, careful consideration and lifelong learning. You need to put in the extra effort to prepare, so that you can excel.