BARRIERS

1. Confirmation Bias: In a professional setting, you may have favored a certain approach
due to past successes, ignoring alternative solutions. Recognizing this bias allows you to
consider different options more objectively, leading to better decision-making.

2. Mental Set: When solving a recurring problem in a specific way, you might get stuck in a
mental set. By acknowledging this, you can explore fresh perspectives and solutions
rather than relying on the same, possibly outdated approach.

3. Functional Fixedness: If you’ve always used a tool for a specific purpose, you might
overlook its potential for other tasks. Recognizing this fixedness enables you to creatively
repurpose tools and resources, increasing efficiency and innovation.

4. Unnecessary Constraints: Sometimes, self-imposed limits hinder problem-solving.

Identifying these constraints allows you to remove or adjust them, expanding your
problem-solving capabilities.

5. Groupthink: In a team setting, groupthink can stifle creativity and critical thinking.
Acknowledging the risk of groupthink prompts you to encourage diverse viewpoints and
promote constructive dissent within the group.

6. Irrelevant Information: In research or analysis, irrelevant data can cloud your judgment.
Recognizing this helps you focus on essential information, making your conclusions more
accurate and efficient.

7. Paradigm Blindness: Holding onto outdated beliefs or perspectives can impede progress.
By acknowledging paradigm blindness, you remain open to new ideas and paradigms,
fostering adaptability and growth.

Being aware of these barriers empowers you to approach problems and decisions with
greater objectivity and flexibility, ultimately leading to better outcomes in both personal and
professional life.