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There are a number of urban myths, and a relevant one relates to the percentage of brain usage. Many people believe that we use only a small percentage of our brains. This is likely true, and you can easily validate this. Look around you in the workplace, you’ll find the level of awareness is generally very low. Ergo, your co-workers use a small percentage of their brain.

However, this does not mean the capacity of the brain is set at a low percentage, and the rest of the brain is not necessary. Research has shown that this line of thinking is a myth.

Pop culture, the reluctance to verify assumptions, and the comfort from conclusions, even if they are fallacious, lead to urban myths. On the other extreme, researching and validating every hypothesis is not feasible.

Having a curious and open mind, developing awareness is your main defense against urban myths in the workplace. In leadership roles, you have to be careful not to cling to assumptions that are not verified or validated. You will lose credibility and it will undermine your legacy.