INTELLIGENCE and memory can help us to achieve much in life, but we will only be able to excel if we foster critical thinking within us.
Individuals who do not develop critical thinking skills will usually take in whatever that is given to them, memorise the facts and use them to serve short-term goals such as passing tests or getting through an interview.
However, when they develop critical thinking skills, these individuals will be able to use the facts given to them and source for more information, evaluate the pros and cons of the information, and use the information to solve any problem that they are facing.
Critical thinking teaches us that knowledge flows and builds upon itself. It is not just about memorising or absorbing everything without question.
In fact, critical thinking encourages us to question hypotheses, to develop alternative hypotheses and to test the hypotheses that are different from the known facts.
Individuals with critical thinking skills are able to process information in a logical manner. They are able to find connections between unlikely or different streams. From pieces of knowledge, they would be able to form a certain kind of conclusion based on the patterns and structures shown.
Critical thinking skills are particularly useful when it comes to solving mathematical problems and testing scientific theories. Science needs the critical use of reason in experimentation and theory confirmation.
Not only that, critical thinking can also enhance language and presentation skills. If we are able to think clearly and systematically, we can improve the way we express our ideas. When we learn how to analyse the logical structure of texts, our comprehension abilities will also be improved.
Critical thinking skills can enhance our presentation and help us to express ourselves better. When we are able to make better predictions about the audience, to arrange our thoughts in a rational and systematic way, to use language in interesting ways, and to become better listeners with discerning minds; we will naturally become better speakers.
With critical thinking skills, we can determine what pieces of information are important and dispose of the data that is not so useful. We can weigh points of view and facts and discover logical errors. All this is vital in the problem-solving process.
Critical thinking is crucial for self-reflection for it brings about clarity of perception and helps us to appraise our values, opinions and decisions. It provides us with the tools for the process of self-evaluation and enables us to have a true realisation of ourselves and brings about self-improvement.
By approaching any issue with an open and curious mind, and by reaching various possible conclusions when putting things together, those with critical thinking skills will be able to generate creative and positive ideas.
The skill of critical thinking also helps us to negotiate better options, make educated guesses and decisions, and reach a win-win situation through creative problem-solving. Hence, critical-thinking skills are essential for those who wish to accomplish more in life. Being able to think well and solve problems systematically are assets for any career and in our personal lives as well.
Priscilla Hiu is a career guidance consultant of Gracia Management and a certified behavioural consultant of DISC Personality Profiling System, Institution of Motivation Living, USA and Extended DISC Personality Profiling System, Extended DISC Northgate.