Evidence Over Ego: Why Curiosity Leads to Better Decisions

How do we make better decisions when certainty is impossible?

In this solo episode of Psychologically Speaking, psychologist and researcher Leila Ainge explores why confidence isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking better questions.

Drawing on psychology, decision-making research and reflections from this season's conversations, Leila explains why our brains crave certainty, how identity and ego can shape the way we respond to new information, and why curiosity is one of the greatest advantages we can develop.

You'll discover:

• Why certainty can sometimes hold us back
• The psychology behind ego, identity and confirmation bias
• Why "the evidence is mixed" is one of a researcher's favourite phrases
• How psychology, art and reflection help us see problems differently
• Why research doesn't replace intuition—it strengthens it
• How to make better decisions by gathering perspectives, not just opinions

Whether you're leading a business, launching something new or navigating an important decision, this episode will help you think differently about risk, evidence and the stories we tell ourselves.

📩 If you'd like support exploring a complex question through a psychological and research-informed lens, contact Leila at [email protected].