Metacognition
MetacognitionDefinition
The ability to think about your own thinking processes. Metacognition involves being aware of and reflecting on your cognitive operations, including how you perceive, learn, remember, and make decisions.
How It Shows Up Internally
You might notice metacognition when you catch yourself about to make an automatic decision and pause to evaluate why. It feels like stepping back from your thoughts to observe them, like watching a movie while also noticing you're watching a movie.
Examples
- 1Noticing that you're feeling defensive about feedback before reacting to it
- 2Recognizing that you're making a quick judgment based on first impressions
- 3Catching yourself about to believe something because you want it to be true
Related Patterns
Related Terms
Cognitive Bias
A systematic pattern of deviation from rational judgment. Cognitive biases are mental shortcuts that helped our ancestors survive but can lead to poor decisions in modern contexts, especially when exploited by manipulators.
System 1 Thinking
Fast, automatic, intuitive thinking that operates without conscious effort. System 1 generates impressions, feelings, and inclinations that often become the basis for beliefs and choices.