Upon first thought critical thinking seems negative and judgmental. We associate being critical with those characteristics. The good news is that nothing could be further from the truth. Critical thinking, as done in business, is empowering, eye-opening, positive, and energizing for business. Often new ideas or revised solutions will bubble up to the surface as a result of critical thinking.
Critical thinking, as related to business, is defined as skillful and responsible thinking in which you study the problem from all angles and devise viable solutions. Think. Analyze – Source & Reasons. Brainstorm. Resolve. See, simple when broken down to these basic steps.
Those excelling at critical thinking ask questions about what caused the problem as well as ask questions to brainstorm solutions. If you think the pre-schooler who asks “Why?” is challenging get in a roundtable discussion with multiple critical thinkers. It’s electrifying! And, when the ideas start bubbling out of the conversations it’s like strikes against a piece of flint. So many tidbits spark and build on something someone else said and the ladder to the solution starts taking shape.
These are the times to set the clock for 2 minutes (no more) and brainstorm like crazy. No idea or suggestion is wrong, off the table, or too outlandish. Everything gets written on the whiteboard. Once the timer goes off then, and only then, is the list reviewed and analyzed. (Sounds fun and energy filled doesn’t it? Believe me, it is.)
During the analysis process introduce the Pros & Cons list as the reasons for the issue are discussed and as the solutions are determined. Again, nothing gets tossed out until it reaches the list.
I challenge you to be a critical thinker in how to plan for your business. In how you approach projects for your clients. In how you organize your day. In how you market. In how you operate as a whole. I promise, it will open your eyes and mind to more. Remember, from all angles. Seeing from different perspectives and vantage points will reveal weak areas that need attention as well as spark new ideas to build on what’s working.
I’d love to hear how, and if, you use critical thinking in your business. Leave a comment and tell me.