We also shed light on some of the ways that cognitive distortions can present themselves i.e., we may adopt an ‘all or nothing’ thinking style where a minor setback can cause us to spiral into feelings of worthlessness, we make assumptions and jump to conclusions, we assume undue responsibility, or we base our self worths on external factors, or we allow these to become a filter that only leaves negative thoughts intact.

So, in this part we will focus on few more ways that cognitive distortions can present themselves in us.

  • Catastrophising: Magnifying or minimising the impact of a situation or event.

    Example- If someone has achieved something, there is a higher chance that they tend to minimise the celebration. Whereas, if a mistake was committed, most people tend to magnify the gravity of the mistake.

  • Perfectionist Tendencies: Tendency to prove their point and desire to win the argument to fulfill their ego.

    Example- People with perfectionist tendencies often feel a sense of achievement or acceptance when someone takes their thoughts and views to be right. On the flipside, if their inputs are challenged or denied, they are likely to feel restless and vulnerable.

  • Discounting Positive: Eliminating the good instead of acknowledging or embracing them.

    Example- This is especially prevalent in individuals with self-esteem issues, they are more likely than not to only give importance to their flaws rather than focusing on their strengths.

By understanding more about these cognitive distortions, we can become more aware of our own thoughts and feelings. This awareness will help us in eliminating cognitive distortion to help us see or view things with a more balanced perspective. All of us are susceptible to some levels of cognitive distortions and can easily be influenced by it. It is when these distortions begin to define our ways of thinking and become part of our personality attributes, and lead us towards unhelpful and unhealthy ways, that we need to stand our ground against it.

The longer we indulge in our cognitive distortions, the more they become habitual ways of thinking. When that happens, it is necessary that we:

  • Introspect on ourselves and the behavioral patterns that we follow.
  • Understand cognitive distortion in our case is typically an outcome of trauma, learnt behavior, defence mechanism, self-esteem issues or superiority complex.
  • Be open to taking feedback from people around you.
  • See where you can make needed amendment to bring out a change and evolve as a person and in your relationships.
  • Consider seeking professional help to work on cognitive distortions or underlying beliefs and challenges.


If you would like to seek some professional advice on cognitive distortions, please feel free to contact Ms. Harshali Kotekar at hr2@executiveship.com or Ms. Glenda D’silva at welfare2@samundra.com.