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- The Real Reason You Struggle with Critical Thinking (And How to Fix It)
The Real Reason You Struggle with Critical Thinking (And How to Fix It)
Leveling up your critical thinking in the digital age
Girvin
October 07, 2024
Hey Fam,
A good number of you have told me that critical thinking, and more specifically thinking critically in complex situations, is the one soft skill you need the most help with.
And, I get it.
We live in a world drowning in information but starving for wisdom.
Where anyone with a smartphone can broadcast their thoughts to millions, where AI can spit out convincing content in seconds, and where "fake news" isn't just a buzzword but a reality.
Which makes critical thinking not just valuable—but vital.
Critical thinking is the key to creative problem-solving in business.
So today I want to talk about leveling up your critical thinking in the digital age. In a later edition, I’ll share my thoughts on thinking critically in complex situations.
After years of working with subject matter experts on solving real-world problems, I've noticed many believe they are good critical thinkers simply because they have mastered a specific subject.
It’s a key reason experts struggle with critical thinking.
Sorry, being a subject matter expert does not automatically make you a great critical thinker.
Here’s the truth I find most people miss:
INFORMATION ISN’T POWER
The ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize that information is where the real power lies.
So why is critical thinking more important than ever before?
Information Overload
We get more data in a day than our ancestors saw in a lifetime.
Without critical thinking, you’re just another person stuck in information overload.
The Rise of Misinformation
Fake news spreads 6 times faster than truth on social media.
Critical thinking is your BS detector in a world of noise.
Complex Global Challenges
From climate change to economic crises, the problems we face are interconnected and complex.
Linear thinking won’t cut it anymore.
AI and Automation
As tasks get automated, the most valuable skills are the ones machines can’t easily replicate: analysis, creativity, and critical thinking.
Echo Chambers and Polarization
It’s easier than ever to surround yourself with like-minded people.
Critical thinking helps you break out of your bubble and consider other perspectives.
It’s about intentionally improving your ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information.
But how?
I suggest 7 ways.
Gif by espn on Giphy
Let’s get it.
