Elevating Critical Thinking: An XI Perspective
“The power of critical thinking doesn't lay in your intelligence, knowledge, or experience. It's not about the data or the resources that you have. It's how you process information that matters.
When you go through the XI process, your way of thinking and method of logic change dramatically from deep within. That's where critical thinking comes from and it comes in before your thought process.” ~ Mas Sajady
Whether you're a fresh-faced first-grader or grinding through a grad school thesis, September often feels like a new chapter. But here's the thing: We're all sent off to conquer our academic mountains without really mastering the art of critical thinking. It's like being handed a toolbox with half the tools missing. We're not just talking about acing exams here; this is about navigating the complexities of life itself. Think you've got critical thinking down? Think again. The traditional approach is just the tip of the iceberg. So, let's dive into a game-changing concept, First Principle or XI Critical Thinking, designed to not only upgrade your problem-solving game but also completely shift the way you see the world.
Step Back and Observe
The first stage involves hitting a mental 'pause button.' Rather than impulsively plunging into a problem or decision, take a moment to step back and scrutinize your thought process. Imagine you're watching a movie and simultaneously analyzing how you're processing the storyline. This meta-awareness allows you to understand not only the issue at hand but also any preconceived notions or biases influencing your approach. In essence, you become the director of your own cognitive film, having the ability to reshoot scenes that don't align with rational thinking.
Hold Opposing Views
F. Scott Fitzgerald once said that the sign of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposing ideas in mind at the same time. This notion is central to true critical thinking. Instead of making a beeline for the 'right answer,' hold multiple perspectives in your mind. Consider the differing views as you would pieces in a jigsaw puzzle; each has its place and contributes to the larger picture. This isn't about courting cognitive dissonance; it's about truly weighing different options. And don't be too quick to come to a conclusion.
Let Go and Allow
Here's where many of us, especially those who pride themselves on their intellect, stumble. We like to tie everything up neatly, to arrive at conclusions. Resist the need for immediate closure–instead, let your thoughts marinate. Take a break. Let go of the urgency to 'figure it out.' It's similar to how great inventors like Einstein and Edison often had their 'aha moments' away from their workspaces. Giving your mind that room to breathe often leads to more innovative solutions and deeper understanding.
Why It Matters
At this point, you might be wondering, "Why go through all this mental gymnastics?" Well, this new framework doesn't just make you a better problem-solver. It enables you to navigate life with greater adaptability and resilience. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you're not only unlocking new solutions but also evolving as a person.
So, if this new perspective on critical thinking makes you a bit uneasy or confused, that's a good sign. It means you're breaking away from the linear, 'one-track-mind' approach that has limited us for so long. XI Critical Thinking is about looking at problems from a 360-degree view, breaking away from our need to always be 'right,' and opening ourselves up to a plethora of new possibilities.