MOVING FROM TRANCE TO THINK: WHY WE NEED TO POLISH OUR CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
Joan Marques
2012
International Journal of Leadership Studies
unpublished
Critical thinking is a crucial prerequisite for responsible human performance not only in organizations, but also in every area of life. Yet, this quality is often downplayed, which is reflected in high numbers of disgruntled working adults. Dissatisfied workforce members are often only partly aware of the reasons for their dissatisfaction, which may be linked to sparse critical thinking about their purpose in life. Critical thinking enables a broader perspective and the ability to rise beyond
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... tandardized thought patterns. This ability leads to creative breakthroughs regarding directions and activities that fulfill personal and societal needs of longitudinal meaning, motivation, performance improvement, and general wellbeing. As a think-piece for the second decade of the 21st century, this article provides an overview of some important factors that prevent critical thinking, captured in the telling acronym "TRANCE," and some important actions that enhance critical thinking, represented in the equally divulging term "THINK." The article also discusses the specific parts of TRANCE that are addressed as one begins practicing specific elements of THINK. One of the advantages of having been exposed to multiple cultures is that you can see how people in one place take things for granted or settle for limitations that are entirely unacceptable in another. Intrigued by this notion, I engaged in deeper contemplation on the topic of critical thinking. I became aware of the fact that many people dwell in miserable situations because they have never learned to critically evaluate their options and the possible solutions that could improve the quality of their lives. Nevertheless, critical thinking has become a survival skill in the rapidly changing world of today. This article reviews the essence of critical thinking from a personal development perspective, assuming that personal development lies at the core of any other development. After a brief literature review, I will present some important impediments and supporting factors of critical thinking. I will end with a brief overview of the constructive cycle that can be established when critical thinking becomes embedded in one's performance.
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