Maslow's Hammer says that we rely too much on familiar tools (not because they're good - only because they're familiar). As the saying goes, “When you have a hammer, everything’s a nail.”
It's why doctors are more likely to recommend surgery for back pain than alternative treatments like massage or chiro. Or why advertising agencies think a great creative campaign is the solution to a brand's bigger issues (like Oately or Burger King).
To avoid Maslow's Hammer, ask yourself:
- 🤔 Is this ACTUALLY the right tool or approach, or am I using it because I feel familiar with it?
- 🤔 Is this my default way of thinking, or is this framework/platform/tool the best way to solve this issue?
Maslow’s Hammer is a type of cognitive bias - a systematic error in thinking. Cognitive biases describe the ways our thinking can go wrong - and anyone can fall prey to them. It doesn't matter if you're a PhD or a high school student, the CEO or an intern.
Here's how to avoid Cognitive Biases in your thinking:
- ✅ Be aware of the common cognitive biases that exist.
- ✅ Actively challenge your thinking with questions like the ones I’ve included in this post (look in the carousel below 👇 )
- ✅ Pay attention and actively work to combat cognitive biases in your decision-making process.
Want to learn more about how your buyers tick (using marketing psychology, behavioral science, and predictive AI)?
👉 When you’re ready, Choice Hacking can help:
- Coaching: Looking for clarity, focus, and confidence in your marketing and/or career? Behavioral Science-powered 1-on-1 Coaching could be a good match for you.
- Courses & Skill Sessions: Improve your customer experience, customer journey maps, presentations, landing page conversion rate, and more with the power of applied behavioral science in a self-directed course.
- Training: We can help your team level up their work with psychology, behavioral science, and AI training.
- Consulting: Get professional insight to grow your business with projects like: