EffectSelf & metacognition · Self-Assessment Bias · Entry 159
Worse-Than-Average Effect – when you assume you're worse than others at difficult tasks
Do you assume everyone else is better than you at difficult tasks? That’s Worse-Than-Average Effect – the tendency to underestimate your own competence in challenging activities, even when you have the skills.
Where it can show up
- Studying & exams – you're sure you’ll fail the test, even though you studied as much as others.
- New skills – afraid to try programming, languages, or driving because ‘that’s for smarter people.’
- Work & career – you assume colleagues will figure things out faster, even when you start at the same level.
A practical countermeasure
- Compare yourself to facts, not fears – you’re likely better than you think.
- Remember, hard things are hard for everyone – others may just hide their doubts better.
- Just start and see – experience will prove you’re more capable than you expect.