I'm a pessimist who insists on being optimistic. I see all the dark shadows, always have, and decide that life cannot be lived under a dark shadow, so I put that aside and get up each day determined to see a shining sun.

We are in this life. It's what we have. Do the most with it. Rarely complain. Put one foot in front of the other and believe the best will happen (otherwise, we stop walking).

As for confirmation bias. I acknowledge it, and fight it. My method is a little like yours but different. I don't like to argue or debate, not with someone else. I seek out information that conflicts with what I think I know.

I read the opinions of people who are disagreeable (not just disagree with me, but generally disagreeable). I force myself to listen and try to see the reason in their argument(s). I annoy family often because when they give me 'news', I ask them where they got the information and then look up material on my own.

Long answer. Sorry.