How to think better
The capacity for critical thinking is a valuable and rare skill that makes problem-solving more effective. Those of us who possess this ability are likely to experience fewer frustations and enjoy more leisure time. On the other hand, a lack of critical thinking skills can result in a significant amount of time being spent fixing mistakes. Some of us are naturally better at thinking than others, while some struggle to come up with ideas or solutions to problems. Fortunately, thinking is a skill that can be developed and improved with practice.
Thinking is a critical aspect of our lives, influencing the decisions we make and the actions we take. However, not all thoughts are created equal, and some are clearer and more effective than others. In this article, we’ll explore what we can do to improve our thinking and how we can think better.
First and foremost, the most efficient way to enhance one’s critical thinking abilities is to really dedicate extended periods of time solely to thinking. Immersion in the problem at hand can uncover insights that might not be attainable through other means.
And writing is a useful tool to encourage slow and deliberate thinking. The process of writing well necessitates good thinking, as stated by Leslie Lamport:
“If you’re thinking without writing, you only think you’re thinking.”
Clear writing reveals the gaps in understanding and highlights poor thinking. Briefly skimming the problem and trying to grasp its essence is not enough to achieve clarity in writing. A comprehensive understanding, along with time and effort, is required for both good writing and good thinking.
Writing forces us to slow down, clarify our thoughts, and organize our ideas. When we write, we have to choose our words carefully, which requires us to think deeply about what we want to say. This process of writing and re-writing helps us to identify and eliminate confusion, inconsistencies, and irrelevant information. By writing our thoughts down, we can see them from a fresh perspective, which often leads to new insights and breakthroughs.
Effective decision-makers are aware of the following truth: one cannot make sound decisions without proper thinking, and this requires a significant amount of time. The choice is either to invest the time now or to pay the consequences later. Spending time to get it right initially is always more efficient than correcting mistakes.
Proper thinking comes with a cost, while poor thinking incurs a much higher cost. Instead of acknowledging that good thinking requires time, many people try to bargain with reality. Unfortunately, that is not a feasible approach.
Therefore to improve one’s thinking abilities, it is highly recommended to set aside time to write out and organize thoughts.
Some other tools to help us in thinking clearly are as follows :
1. Start with the right questions : The first step to thinking better is to ask the right questions. Often, we get stuck in our thinking because we’re not asking the right questions. By asking better questions, we can open up new possibilities and ideas. For example, instead of asking, “Why can’t I lose weight?” try asking, “What small changes can I make to my daily routine to improve my health?”
2. Practice metacognition or Mindfulness – This is the act of actively introspecting on one’s own thinking process. Rather than treating thinking as a passive operation, metacognition involves bringing the thought process to the forefront for examination and improvement. Mindfulness is a technique that involves being present and fully engaged in the moment. This can be achieved through self-reflection activities like meditating, journaling, regular evaluations, or working with a thinking partner. If you’re struggling to concentrate on a task, try taking a few deep breaths and focusing on your breath for a few minutes. By bringing your attention back to the present moment, you can clear your mind and improve your focus.
3. Be cognizant of cognitive biases – The human mind is remarkable, but it is not without limitations. Cognitive biases refer to systematic errors in thinking that occur when processing information. These mental errors, which can be related to memory or attention, are often deeply ingrained and can be challenging to overcome. However, recognizing our biases is a crucial first step in managing them. Our assumptions can limit our thinking and prevent us from exploring new ideas. To think better, we must challenge our assumptions and be open to new perspectives.
4. Avoid linear thinking and logical fallacies – Taking shortcuts in thinking rarely leads to optimal outcomes. It is essential to engage in second-level thinking to consider the complex effects of decisions. As investor Howard Marks notes, “first-level thinking is simple and superficial, and most people can do it. All it takes is an opinion about the future (…) second-level thinking is deep, complex, and convoluted.”
5. Study useful mental models – Mental models are frameworks that represent how the world works and help guide our thoughts and behaviors. Some mental models are based on biological observations, while others are informed by behavioral studies. These models are a reflection of the complexities of human nature and should be used contextually and in combination. Learning and creating mental models is a lifelong learning process that can improve long-term thinking.
6. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity : Failure is an essential part of the learning process. When we fail, we have the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and improve our thinking. For example, if you tried a new approach to a problem, and it didn’t work, take the time to reflect on what went wrong and what you could do differently next time. By embracing failure as a as just another feedback opportunity, you can improve your thinking and increase your chances of success.
In conclusion, thinking is a skill that can be developed and improved with practice. By starting with the right questions, challenging our assumptions and biases, using mental models, practicing mindfulness, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity, we can improve our thinking and make better decisions. So, the next time you’re struggling to come up with ideas or solve a problem, try incorporating these practical insights and examples to help you think better.
