Member-only story
Why Is Critical Thinking important?
It is essential to analyse data in the workplace and make decisions based on the information to hand. Often, we need to make decisions without all the information. Being both confident and correct can often be a balancing act.
Critical thinking is the ability to keep an open mind and be open to new ideas. We can’t assume that we already know the answers. To get the information we need, we need to be able to ask the right questions. We need to uncover the actual state of the situation.
Check your bias
Bias and assumptions are a natural part of our behaviour. We use these to help us take shortcuts and save time. We need to be aware of our biases so that they don’t blind us to obvious issues.
Be open and creative
Creativity is an integral part of critical thinking. This is because we need to be able to look at various angles to overcome a problem. Sometimes this can be out of the box thinking often though it’s in the box thinking. I work with regulators, and they have to look at problems and find solutions that work within the limits of their jobs. They need to stay within the box, but you might be able to develop some innovative ideas anyway. Sometimes you need to change your perspective.
Be a problem solver
