Top 10 Cognitive Distortions
Top 10 Cognitive Distortions
A Practical Self-Awareness Tool for Leaders and Teams
Everyone talks about mindset, but few take the time to explore the specific thought patterns that shape it. That’s where this document from Capacity Building Solutions comes in. Top 10 Cognitive Distortions is a simple, eye-opening resource that helps leaders and teams better understand how their thinking might be unintentionally distorting their reality—and holding them back.
We all carry invisible scripts—assumptions, expectations, and stories we tell ourselves about how the world works. Sometimes, those stories serve us. But often, they subtly create anxiety, frustration, and conflict without us even realizing it. This document brings those distortions to the surface so they can be seen, understood, and addressed.
Why It Matters
Whether someone’s leading a company, managing a team, or simply trying to grow personally, the ability to challenge their own thinking is foundational. Leaders who don’t examine their mental habits often default to black-and-white thinking, catastrophizing outcomes, or unfairly labeling themselves and others. And when left unchecked, these patterns affect performance, culture, and relationships.
This tool is designed to:
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Increase emotional intelligence
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Support coaching conversations
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Foster self-awareness and humility
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Help individuals own and reframe limiting beliefs
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Create healthier, more constructive workplace dynamics
What’s Inside
Each of the ten distortions is clearly explained with relatable examples—from “All-or-Nothing Thinking” and “Should Statements” to “Emotional Reasoning” and “Mental Filtering.” A simple yes/no format encourages honest self-assessment and sets the stage for deeper dialogue with a coach, mentor, or team leader.
This isn’t just about mental health. It’s about effective leadership and sustainable performance.
