-: Critical thinking is defined as the objective analysis
and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.
If you can apply critical thinking
to tough workplace problems,
you'll be an invaluable asset to any company.
(mild contemplative music)
-: So critical thinking is the ability
to kind of break down ideas,
compare and contrast them to differing viewpoints,
and kind of evaluate the merits of an idea.
-: To start, let's take a look at the top traits
that all critical thinkers have in common.
They question ideas and assumptions
rather than accept them at face value.
They rely on reason rather than emotion.
They imagine a wide range of ideas and solutions.
They compare and contrast.
They welcome and evaluate all points of view
to determine their validity.
They have a strong desire to become
and remain well-informed.
And finally, they reflect and think independently.
-: You know, make fact-based decisions
from your own perspective
of how you would solve the solution.
Test it out yourself.
Convince yourself that it's the right answer.
And then go out and find someone to prove you wrong
and say, show me why this is incorrect.
-: When you get an assignment that says, you know,
pick the best option and explain why,
it's the explain why that really matters.
It's not the option that you choose.
Really contemplating and considering the variables
involved with that choice are the critical thinking.
-: Here are four great ways to actively improve
your critical thinking skills.
Number one, read more.
Reading can open your mind,
grow your knowledge base,
and introduce new perspectives.
Number two, play brain games.
There are a ton of daily mind challenge games out there
that can get you thinking more clearly and creatively.
There's nothing like a good riddle to start the day.
Number three, embrace and even seek out problems.
Do not shy away from the chance
to dissect and solve a challenging dilemma.
The more you do it, the better you'll get.
Number four, make time for reflection.
I know life is crazy and you're busy,
but a walk in the woods every now and then
can be good for your mind.
Whether you're a CEO brainstorming ways
to finance a large-scale project
or an intern calculating how many pizzas to order
for the office party,
critical thinking will always be
a needed skill in your career.
-: One of the exciting things about critical thinking
is it can apply to any industry, any topic,
any place where you are in your career.
-: Peel back the onion,
not just one layer, but two, three, or four
to figure out what really is driving this business.
And so that's all about critical thinking,
not just accepting what you're being told
but really questioning, you know, multiple layers deeper.
-: Challenge yourself to get involved
when solutions need to be found for tough problems.
And you, too, can become a great critical thinker.
(upbeat instrumental music)