The Decline of Critical Thinking Skills

Source: Ollyy/ Shutterstock

Thinking clearly, deeply, and productively is one of our most valuable life skills. But, research shows that it is becoming one of the most endangered.

Unsurprisingly, there has been a decline in people’s ability to think deeply and reflectively in the past few years. One study, which focused on Millennial and Gen Z workers in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Japan, found that many people reported burning out and struggling to make ends meet. So they’ve been spending more time thinking about their immediate challenges, rather than the more profound, meaningful types of thinking that might lead to better outcomes.

One concern in the report (released by the Lenovo computer company) is that the changes young people had to make to deal with the pressures of 2020 are not temporary. Instead, many young people seem to find themselves stuck in a practical or survival thinking mindset that can negatively impact their ability to function personally and professionally over time.

How can you improve your critical thinking skills? Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Avoid the urgency trap: If you tend to rush through decision-making when under the pressure of too many demands, you can develop self-awareness of your counterproductive habit, and learn to pause or take a break before rushing forward.

2. Engage in reflective thinking: Take the time to reflect on your own thoughts, experiences, and biases. Reflective thinking helps you gain self-awareness, consider different perspectives, and evaluate your own reasoning.

3. Practice active listening and effective communication: Engage in active listening to understand others’ viewpoints and perspectives. Practice expressing your thoughts clearly, constructively, and logically, fostering productive discussions and debates.

4. Solve problems systematically: Break down complex problems into smaller components, identify underlying issues, and consider multiple solutions. Practice problem-solving techniques, such as brainstorming, evaluating alternatives, and anticipating potential consequences.

5. Embrace curiosity and lifelong learning: Cultivate a mindset of interest and a thirst for knowledge. Be open to new ideas, seek diverse perspectives, and continuously expand your understanding through reading, research, and learning from others.

6. Engage in critical thinking exercises: Solve puzzles, riddles, or logical problems that challenge your reasoning abilities. Engage in debates, analyze case studies, or participate in critical thinking workshops or courses to sharpen your skills.

7. Practice self-compassion: Thinking deeply is not easy in a world of distractions. Develop a regular meditation or exercise practice to manage stress. Remember that deep thinking requires nurturing yourself and taking time to slow down.

Copyright 2023 Tara Well PhD