Chess is a game of strategy where the objective is to checkmate your opponent’s king. It requires critical thinking and tactical maneuvers. Not everybody knows how to play. Others can’t be bothered to learn the basics. The biggest excuse is why play a board game that necessitates so much brain power.
To be fair, they have a point. But, have you ever noticed individuals running companies and boardrooms are the same who excel at chess? Bill Gates, George Soros, and even Jay-Z are famously known for beating their opponents in one fell swoop.
What is the one thing they all have in common? Critical thinking. This is the biggest attribute that all leaders possess. Below, we’ll explain why critical thinkers make excellent leaders in whatever field they choose; directors, managers, and entrepreneurs.
Common Traits of Critical Thinkers
#1. Clear Communicators
You’ll often hear that individuals who enter the nursing practice field have excellent communication skills. They know how to articulate ideas and provide logical explanations. Couple that with critical thinking and it’s a recipe for career success. Let us cite an example to explain this.
Executive nurse leaders are adept at inspiring and motivating their teams to achieve their goals. However, the career pathway to becoming a nurse leader demands years of experience and study coursework.
Advanced practice nurses and registered nurses with a business administration background tend to pursue a DNP degree. An MBA to DNP program equips DNP students with the knowledge to earn a degree. Designed for nurse leaders, an online DNP in Executive Nurse Leadership (DNP-ENL) has its advantages.
The program is fully online, allowing students to work full-time. Doctoral projects can be completed locally, and no GRE/MAT is required for admission. However, admission requirements are stringent. You must have a Master of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited college or any master’s in business/health-related degree.
Baylor University suggests enrolling in a program using the Adams Influence Model framework that teaches students advanced business acumen and uses evidence-based practices.
#2. Effective Problem Solvers
Breaking down complex problems is a skill that requires not only critical thinking but also coming up with solutions. According to Psychology Today, problem-solving could soon be a dwindling attribute eroded by our dependence on AI.
The technology embodies convenience, automates tasks, and improves efficiency. Yet, our overreliance on AI impacts our ability to think critically, the publication claims. Critical thinking is integral to problem-solving, helping us navigate complex challenges and make informed decisions.
On the other hand, as we hand over more cognitive tasks to AI, it leads to a decline in our ability to think for ourselves. AI often lacks transparency in its reasoning, leading to blind acceptance of its answers and recommendations. It also diminishes our capacity for analytical reasoning.
#3. Strategic Thinkers
Good leaders leverage data to make sound decisions. Like chess, strategy plays a role in identifying patterns and trends to predict the direction of a team or company.
Unlike conventional management styles, critical thinkers analyze problems, identify long-term goals, and develop achievable strategies.
Michael Watkins, the author of ‘The 6 Disciplines of Strategic Thinking,’ defines six foundations that influence our ability to develop leadership skills.
These are:
- Pattern recognition
- System analysis
- Mental agility
- Structured problem-solving
- Visioning
- Political savvy
You can become a more effective leader by actively improving in these areas. While some naturally excel at strategic thinking, anyone can develop this skill with practice and dedication.
#4. Self-Awareness
Understanding your thoughts, feelings, and actions isn’t an easy thing to do. And yet, it’s crucial for personal and professional growth. Psychologists Shelley Duval and Robert Wicklund tell etterUp that self-awareness is the ability to objectively evaluate yourself, manage emotions, and align behavior with your values.
Self-awareness is a rare but valuable skill that helps leaders evaluate their growth, and effectiveness, and adjust as needed. In a nutshell, self-awareness enhances decision-making, improves interpersonal relationships, and regulates emotions.
Critical Thinkers’ Road to Success
Think of critical thought as your superpower. Companies across the globe are constantly searching for critical thinkers – individuals who anticipate potential outcomes and develop long-term strategies for success.
Being a clear communicator enables you to inspire and motivate others to be the best versions of themselves. Strategic thinking comes in when breaking down complex problems in an understandable way. Self-awareness helps you manage your emotions and put them in check.
With all these aptitudes combined, there’s no stopping you because being a good leader isn’t about managing; it’s about strategy and making decisions that result in success. Whether you enter the healthcare industry or join the private sector, your skills will always be in demand.
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