Dichotomisation, also referred to as all or nothing thinking refers to the tendency to evaluate one’s persona qualities in extreme black or white categories.

Dichotomisation is a cognitive distortion which means it keeps us from seeing the world as it often is: complex, yet full of all the shades in between.

Most of us engage in dichotomous thinking from time to time, but it becomes a cognitive distortion when we do it on a regular basis. Dichotomisation hurt your physical and mental health, sabotage your career cause disruption in your relationships.

Certain words can alert you that your thoughts are leaning towards dichotomisation. 

• always
• never
• impossible
• disaster
• furious
• ruined 
• perfect

Practicing mindfulness helps with minimising dichotomisation. Watch out for our next post.