Critical Thinking and Perspective

Perspective and critical thinking are both important qualities and practices. As someone who was born into a harmful group that discourages critical thinking, personal growth and seeking different perspectives, all of these are of utmost importance to me. I enjoy learning and considering different ways to look at the world and my own self. Learning for me is almost an obsession. 

1. What are some ways you can practice and incorporate critical thinking and perspective understanding into your daily life?

2. How can these qualities aid your growth as a person?

1. Questioning assumptions one makes by asking questions is one way. Ask many, many questions. Don’t accept anything at face value—investigate. Be curious. Active listening, debate, consider different outcomes and results. Brainstorm multiple ways of solving problems. Communicating with others about perspective and critical thinking. 

2. By practicing these, I am ensuring that my mind and, consequently, life is not narrow and static. There is constant improvement and expansion of the self and in thinking / problem-solving / relatability. Actively seeking out different perspectives and opinions provides a way to reflect on my thinking and where my mind is in terms of growth and learning mindset. Am I being narrow-minded and tunnel visioning? How do I feel about this particular viewpoint? Why? Is what they’re saying factual, or is it an opinion? What can I research about this? How does this affect my life? Etc.