20 Reasons You Lack Common Sense (And What To Do About It)

Common sense isn’t always so common.

We all have those moments where we facepalm at our own actions or decisions, wondering, “What was I thinking?” Sometimes, it’s a matter of being caught off guard or having an off day. But if you consistently find yourself lacking that practical judgment or everyday wisdom, there might be a few reasons behind it. The good news? You can absolutely boost your common sense with a little self-awareness and effort.

1. You rely heavily on theoretical knowledge rather than practical experience.

Maybe you’re a bookworm who excels in academics but struggles with real-world situations. You might know all the theoretical steps for changing a tire, but when faced with an actual flat tire, you’re stumped. The solution? Get your hands dirty! Look for opportunities to apply your knowledge in practical settings. Volunteer, take up a hobby, or simply try new things to gain a broader understanding of how the world works.

2. You tend to overthink situations and get lost in details.

You analyse every possible outcome, consider every potential consequence, and end up paralysed by indecision. While it’s important to think things through, sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. Try to trust your gut instinct more often and focus on the big picture instead of getting bogged down in minutiae. Remember, not every decision requires a deep dive analysis.

3. You’re hesitant to ask for help or advice.

You might see asking for help as a sign of weakness or incompetence, but in reality, it’s a smart way to gain knowledge and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Everyone has their own areas of expertise, and there’s no shame in seeking guidance from those who know more than you. In fact, it’s a sign of wisdom and humility. So next time you’re unsure of something, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

4. You struggle to learn from your mistakes.

Maybe you get so caught up in beating yourself up for a mistake that you don’t take the time to analyse what went wrong and how to avoid it in the future. Remember, mistakes are valuable learning opportunities. Instead of dwelling on the negative, try to reframe your mistakes as chances to grow and improve. Ask yourself what you can learn from the experience and how you can apply that knowledge to future situations.

5. You’re easily distracted or have difficulty focusing on the task at hand.

You might start a task with good intentions, but then your mind wanders off to a million different things. This lack of focus can lead to careless errors and poor decision-making. Try to minimise distractions when you need to concentrate, whether it’s by putting away your phone, working in a quiet space, or breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

6. You tend to follow the crowd rather than thinking for yourself.

Maybe you go along with the popular opinion even if you don’t truly agree, or you follow trends without considering if they’re right for you. While it’s important to consider other perspectives, it’s equally important to develop your own critical thinking skills. Don’t be afraid to question assumptions, challenge the status quo, and form your own opinions based on your own values and experiences.

7. You prioritise short-term gratification over long-term consequences.

You might impulsively buy something you can’t afford or skip out on a responsibility because you don’t feel like doing it. While these choices might feel good in the moment, they can lead to negative consequences down the line. Try to cultivate a more long-term perspective and consider how your actions today will affect your future. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself, but it does mean making conscious choices that align with your overall goals and values.

8. You’re resistant to change or new ideas.

Perhaps you stick to familiar routines and habits, even when they’re not serving you well. Or you dismiss new ideas or approaches without giving them a fair chance. While it’s natural to feel comfortable with the familiar, being open to change and new perspectives can help you grow and expand your understanding of the world. Try to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and development.

9. You lack self-awareness or have difficulty understanding your own emotions and motivations.

If you’re not in tune with your own thoughts and feelings, it can be difficult to make sound decisions or understand the impact of your actions on other people. Take the time to reflect on your emotions, motivations, and behaviour patterns. Journaling, meditation, or therapy can be helpful tools for developing self-awareness. The more you understand yourself, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the complexities of life.

10. You grew up in an environment where common sense wasn’t valued or taught.

Perhaps your parents or caregivers didn’t model practical decision-making skills, or they discouraged you from asking questions or expressing your opinions. If you didn’t have positive role models to guide you, it’s understandable that you might struggle with common sense. However, it’s never too late to learn. Find mentors or role models who embody the qualities you admire, and learn from their example.

11. You’re overly trusting of other people or information sources.

You might believe everything you read online without verifying the source, or you might readily trust people without getting to know them well. While it’s important to be open and trusting, it’s equally important to be discerning and critical. Not everyone has your best interests at heart, and not all information is accurate. Do your research, ask questions, and trust your gut instinct when something seems off.

12. You have a hard time prioritising or distinguishing between important and unimportant tasks.

You might spend hours on a trivial task while neglecting more pressing responsibilities, or you might get sidetracked by distractions and lose sight of your goals. To improve your prioritisation skills, try using a to-do list or calendar to schedule your tasks and allocate your time wisely. Focus on completing the most important tasks first, and learn to delegate or postpone less urgent matters.

13. You have difficulty adapting to new situations or unexpected changes.

Maybe you panic when your plans are disrupted, or you struggle to adjust to a new environment or routine. While it’s normal to feel uncomfortable with change, being adaptable is an essential life skill. Practice flexibility by embracing new experiences, stepping outside your comfort zone, and learning to roll with the punches when things don’t go as planned.

14. You tend to be impulsive or make decisions without considering the consequences.

You might say or do things without thinking, or you might jump into situations without weighing the pros and cons. While spontaneity can be fun, it’s important to balance it with careful consideration. Before making a decision, take a moment to pause, reflect, and consider the potential outcomes. This can help you avoid rash choices and make more informed decisions.

15. You have a hard time understanding social cues or reading non-verbal communication.

You might miss subtle hints, misinterpret body language, or say things that unintentionally offend or hurt people. If you struggle with social skills, try to pay more attention to how people communicate non-verbally. Observe their facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. You can also practice your communication skills by actively listening to other people, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on how your words and actions might be perceived.

16. You struggle with spatial awareness or have difficulty judging distances or sizes.

You might bump into things, spill drinks, or misjudge the size of a parking space. While these might seem like minor inconveniences, they can be frustrating for you and those around you. If you have trouble with spatial awareness, try practising simple exercises like walking in a straight line, playing catch, or estimating distances. You can also try using visual aids like tape or markers to help you judge sizes and distances accurately.

17. You have difficulty understanding or following instructions.

You might zone out during explanations, miss important details, or forget steps in a process. If you struggle with following instructions, try to pay closer attention when someone is explaining something to you. Ask clarifying questions, repeat the instructions back in your own words, and take notes if necessary. You can also try breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

18. You often find yourself in dangerous or risky situations without realising it.

You might not think twice about walking alone in a dark alley or accepting a ride from a stranger. While it’s important to trust your instincts, it’s equally important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself. If you find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, remove yourself from it as quickly and safely as possible. Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to say no or ask for help.

19. You have difficulty managing your time or sticking to a schedule.

You might procrastinate on important tasks, overbook yourself with commitments, or simply lose track of time. This can lead to missed deadlines, forgotten appointments, and unnecessary stress. To improve your time management skills, try using a calendar or planner to schedule your activities and set reminders for important tasks. Break down large projects into smaller, more manageable steps, and prioritise your most important responsibilities.

20. You have a tendency to jump to conclusions or make assumptions without gathering all the facts.

You might misinterpret situations, misunderstand people’s intentions, or believe rumours without verifying their accuracy. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and unnecessary drama. Before forming an opinion or making a decision, take the time to gather all the relevant information. Ask questions, seek out multiple perspectives, and avoid making assumptions based on limited information.