Opinion Isn’t Fact: Learn to Think Critically

Let me start with this: I’ve learned the hard way. Critical thinking isn’t a default skill—it’s something we build through intention, humility, and honest reflection. I’ve had to dismantle my own blind spots, challenge long-held assumptions, and face feedback that stung. And the truth is? I’m still doing that work. Every single day.

The First Wake-Up Call: Feedback I Didn’t Want to Hear

Years ago, I got into an emotional argument with my brother. In the middle of it, he said something that pierced through the noise: "People are afraid to give you feedback because you get emotional and can’t handle it." I was immediately defensive—but later that night, I sat with his words.

He apologized. But the damage had already been done—in the best way. He’d unknowingly cracked open a blind spot I hadn’t wanted to see. And the deeper truth? He was right.

That moment forced me to realize that I wasn’t truly open to feedback—especially the kind that challenged my identity or beliefs. It was the first time I made a conscious decision to do the internal work: to process rather than react, to ask better questions, and to listen without formulating a rebuttal.

The Heartbreak of Not Listening: My Children

The second moment cut even deeper. As my kids grew into young adults, I noticed they were emotionally pulling away. I thought I was being helpful—offering advice, wisdom, perspective—but what they needed was to be heard, not managed. I wasn’t listening to understand. I was listening to fix.

It crushed me to realize that my own children didn’t always feel safe opening up to me.

That moment demanded humility. I had to accept that I didn’t need to be right. I needed to be present. I had to hold space for them without rushing in with my solutions. I had to let go of control and lean into compassion. That was the shift—from being the one with answers to being the one who listens.

Becoming a Leader: It’s Not About Me

The third moment was when I stepped fully into leadership. I thought I had what it took: clarity, compassion and vision. I quickly learned I wasn’t as effective as I imagined. I was leading from my perspective—not theirs. I thought, if it worked for me, it’ll work for them.

That’s not leadership. That’s projection.

I had to unlearn a lot. Leadership meant stepping aside, removing obstacles, asking the right questions, and realizing that I don’t always have the best idea in the room. I had to make space for my team’s feedback, even when it was uncomfortable. Especially when it was uncomfortable.

What Critical Thinking Actually Takes

We consider critical thinking to be an intellectual endeavour. But in truth, it’s deeply emotional. It’s being willing to admit when you’re wrong. It’s about slowing down your reactions long enough to examine them. It’s about learning to recognize your own bias, your confirmation loop, your defensiveness.

Here’s what I’ve learned it requires:

1. Open-Mindedness: You have to be willing to let go of being the expert and become the student again.
2. Analysis: Pause before you repost. Who said it? Why did they say it? Is it backed by evidence or just emotion?
3. Self-Regulation: Check your triggers. What are you reacting to—and what’s underneath that reaction?

Spotting the Slippery Slope of Conspiracies

Conspiracy theories often thrive in chaos. They simplify the complex, creating a villain and a narrative that gives the illusion of control. But most fall apart under scrutiny.

Watch for these red flags:

• Oversimplified answers to complex issues
• A lack of credible, verifiable sources
• Stories with a clear villain and a one-sided narrative

If it feels too easy, it probably is.

Breaking Free from Confirmation Bias

I’ve fallen into this trap more times than I can count—seeking out information that validates what I already believe. But real growth comes when we actively challenge our own thinking.

Now, I ask myself:

• Am I only listening to people who agree with me?
• Am I dismissing something just because it makes me uncomfortable?
• Am I evaluating evidence—or defending a belief?

Embrace a Learning Mindset

This isn’t about shame or guilt. This is about growth.

The next time someone challenges you, and your guard goes up—pause. Ask yourself why. Ask if it’s hitting something true or exposing something you hadn’t considered.

It’s not about being right. It’s about being better.

We all have blind spots. But the moment we get curious instead of defensive, we unlock something powerful: the ability to learn, to grow, and to lead with intention.

Let’s do more of that.