“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.” Coco Chanel
What are Independent Thoughts?
Independent thoughts are self-governed thoughts, thoughts that are not subjected to the influence of others. Independent thinkers do not adopt other’s thinking “as is” but question and filter their thoughts to come to their own refreshing point of view.
How to be an Independent Thinker?
Independent thinking is rare, but it is a skill that can be developed through:
Increased Reading
Read a vast selection of different things. Do not just read the literature that you are drawn to. Instead intentionally seek out articles, fiction and non- fiction, reports and news, journals and editorials from all sides of the subject matter even from sources that you may normally avoid. Expose yourself to an array of different thoughts so that you can digest a spectrum and decide for yourself without the bias of your ‘go to’ sources.
Interacting with People that are Different to You
We can learn a lot from other people’s experiences, perspectives and opinions. Different cultures, socio – economic backgrounds, genders, jobs, education etc all offer the potential of new learning for us. If we only surround ourselves with people that are similar to us we are destined for like-minded thinking. If we want to be an independent thinker we must listen to new perspectives.
Having Respect for Others
You may not always understand others, but respect is key to be able to consume other people’s perspective so that it can enhance your own independent thought. Respect allows us a window to take in what someone else has to offer. Without respect we are closed off to new ideas and ways of thinking
Travel
Being out of our comfort zone, having your eyes opened to different ways of doing things and thinking about things will enhance independent thinking. Travel is an optimal way to experience this. It also gives us a chance to live another way of thinking, rather than just experience it in our heads. The lived experience offers us a more in-depth level of understanding.
Schedule Thinking Time and Journal
After exposure to different thoughts, experiences and perspectives it is important to give time to thinking. Journaling can help to order your thoughts, work out which are the most important or map one’s thinking. It can also help us to take stock of deficiencies in our thinking and help us to identify where further research or a request for help may be required. Prioritising time to think is vital for the development of independent thinking.
Independent Thinking in a Loud World
Independent thinking requires a certain amount of originality and accountability. It can also take a lot of courage to be an independent thinker. Speaking out in opposition to a large majority can make you the target of attack. Leading a conversation down a new path or trajectory can take effort, leadership and perseverance. This is why it helps to be careful to back your independent thinking up with evidence. Evidence that supports your independent thoughts will help to deliver them to those around you, if that’s what you choose to do.
