Occasionally, we all wonder how different our lives would be had we made different decisions. If you have these thoughts on a regular basis, however, it becomes a problem. Poor thought processes lead to poor choices, which in turn lead to poor life outcomes. It’s not too late to learn critical thinking skills and improve your fortune.
How Decisions Are Made
Whether we think about it or not, we all make countless decisions every day. Those who have trouble making decisions, or who often regret the ones they make, may have never learned the necessary skills. Decision making classes can teach us new ways of thinking.
Every decision is made in a series of steps. First, we recognize a problem and determine our desired solution. Then, we ponder possible ways to make it happen. Each is weighed against the others using known information about what worked in the past and what didn’t, along with deductions on what should work in the present situation. Finally, we pick the option that seems best, and we act on it.
Most people subconsciously perform this process in seconds, though some would do well to slow down. Consider each step carefully to find your weaknesses. Once you know where you’re struggling, focus on strategies to boost your abilities.
Critical Thinking Is Key
While we’re all capable of thought, there’s a difference between thinking and thinking well. If you don’t think critically, your proportion of positive decisions will be low, as will your quality of life. People constantly make choices without contemplating the big picture. Small choices, such as what to have for dinner, might cause mild disappointment. Big decisions, such as spending money on luxuries instead of home repairs, could end in disaster.
People with a firm grasp of critical thinking apply logic, reason and rationality to daily decisions. Logic is a tool for examining problems objectively, or at least understanding one’s own false assumptions. Taking yourself out of the equation makes it easier to tell good thinking from bad, and to make judgments based on evidence and facts. Later on, logical reasoning helps us evaluate how our decisions went, and what we can do for better future results.
Thankfully, critical thinking is more about practice than aptitude. Although natural talent is useful, the traits for success can be taught to all types of students. An educational course can retrain your brain for a better life.
Even with a history of bad choices, you can still change your future. Master critical thinking, make smart decisions and take control of your destiny