Why do I believe this?

Many assertions are actually just based on gut feelings rather than fact or clear logic.

One reason why we fail to catch a poorly formed opinion masquerading as a well-informed one sooner is because we don’t force the issue. We often don’t ask ourselves until someone else asks: “Can you explain your reasoning?”

The extent to which we can explain our thinking clearly and in detail determines whether we obtain credibility or lose it. This is true not just of professional relationships, but personal ones as well.

Do yourself a favor and be specific with yourself in advance. Ask yourself: “Why, exactly, do I believe this?”

If your mind draws a blank or can only manage to form a partial opinion, it’s because you’re not as clear-headed about the matter as you thought and your thinking needs more refinement.

Once you’ve done the heavy lifting of being clear with yourself, you can make your opinion known more widely with full confidence in your ability to defend your position.