What Is Independent Thinking?

So, what is independent thinking? That’s what we are going to discuss here. It is much more involved than it may appear on the surface.

We’ll briefly discuss the standard definition and then explore a bit more below the surface. That’s where we will discover a few hidden gems to learn and, more importantly, apply.

Let’s Define What is Independent Thinking

“Follow the path of the unsafe, independent thinker. Expose your ideas to the danger of controversy. Speak your mind and fear less the label of ‘crackpot’ than the stigma of conformity.”

— Thomas J. Watson —

When we ask what is independent thinking the more standard definition is the ability to analyze information based on our own ideas and opinions, and then make decisions based on them. This is done without being influenced by others or society in general.

This encourages us to access not only our reasoning capacities but also our intuition as well. We approach problem-solving through critical questioning as well as a creative approach.

As independent thinkers, we can experience intellectual growth while applying innovative solutions to problems. We are thus empowered to challenge more conventional wisdom and trust our intuitive nature, resulting in more diverse perspectives and unique insights.

A More Courageous Approach

“Although I’m only fourteen, I know quite well what I want. I know who is right and who is wrong. I have my opinions, my own ideas and principles, and although it may sound pretty mad from an adolescent, I feel more of a person than a child. I feel quite independent of anyone.

— Anne Frank –

It is far easier to follow the herd than to state how we really think and feel. The fear of criticism and rejection can be intense.

There are many role models down through the years from whom we can take encouragement. Some of these people faced extreme circumstances but still stayed true to their values and beliefs.

Even when scared, we can take one small step to break the inertia. It can be the simplest movement forward such as picking up our phone even without intending to call. The point is to do something as it positions us to take the next step regardless of the resistance.

Yes, it takes a bit of courage but not as much as we think. The challenge is within, not without. We are all capable of deciding to move forward despite the resistance.

What is Independent Thinking — Handling Rejection Creatively

“Fear keeps us focused on the past or worried about the future. If we can acknowledge our fear, we can realize that right now we are okay. Right now, today, we are still alive, and our bodies are working marvelously. Our eyes can still see the beautiful sky. Our ears can still hear the voices of our loved ones.”

— Thich Nhat Hanh —

Once we stop lying to ourselves we can regain our status as creative beings with unlimited potential. Stop listening to the noise in our heads and honor our values and intentions.

Once we take a few small steps in discovering what is independent thinking and living as an independent thinker, we will begin to experience the freedom of living an authentic life.

The value of this is enormous. It is priceless.

So how do we handle the fear of rejection or criticism? Having experienced the pain in the past we are hesitant to experience it again.

Let’s simplify this by putting it in an entirely new framework. Instead of getting caught up in the past, let’s revert to the present moment and apply this simple technique of moving from rejection to redirection.

Instead of resisting rejection/criticism, we see it as an opportunity to redirect our attention to others who support our values and efforts. Let’s ignore the rejection and give our energy to the support.

The Creative Approach

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”

— Desmond Tutu —

• Relax
• Realize we are unlimited creative beings
• Allow things to unfold naturally and experience the moment
• Redirect any negativity by understanding its lack of value
• Remain in the present moment to access our power by asking, “Am I present now?” This reminds us to stay present
• Acknowledge ourselves for our independent thought and the progress we have made in expressing it more consistently

What is Independent Thinking — Bringing Value to the World

“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”

— Albert Einstein —

We bring value to the world by being our authentic selves and living our values fully. We make no compromises.

We then truly understand what is independent thinking. We deal with any resistance because our commitment is strong.

We cannot help others unless we help ourselves first by living authentically and understanding our truth. We teach what we know so it is important to believe the truth.

As an independent thinker, we can then bring value to others and the world by addressing their needs and challenges in creative ways. We are able to leverage our unique abilities in making a positive impact.

Building meaningful relationships amplifies our efforts and provides others with a viable role model. Whether this is at home, at work, volunteering, advocating for heartfelt causes, or solving community problems, our independent thought positions us to be of true value.

We meet the needs of diverse populations with our empathy and understanding. Small consistent efforts lead to positive change.

The Time is Now

“The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.”

— Abraham Maslow —

Now more than ever the world needs independent thinkers. Our contributions are much needed and we each have unique skills to offer.

Let us not let fear stand in our way. Fear really is an illusion powered by our belief in it. Once we remove our attention it quietly dissolves.

As independent thinkers we must state and live our truth. Life is much too precious to not live an authentic life. Prior thoughts of doubt and weakness that have held us back now need to be discarded because they are not true.

Now is the time to be our best and model the type of life we were meant to live. We each have unique skills and abilities to be expressed for the benefit of all.

I encourage us all to access and direct our power in the present moment to discover and fulfill our life purpose. In that way, we are doing our part in awakening the world to the reality of unconditional love and oneness.

In Peace and Love within the Light,

Joseph William

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