A500.5.3.RB_Manglona, Matthew-Napu Critical Thinking about Critical Thinking

When I first started the course I had a brief idea of what organizational leadership as explained by my mentor and examples he gave. However I did not know the magnitude of critical thinking. I didn’t realize that thinking outside the box was an example or an element of critical thinking. At times, I found it difficult to understand why my boss treated me or reacted towards things that I did or the decisions I made for the staff. After the material I have learned in this class, I realize that I have made improvements and have grown in both my personal and professional life. Now when I am given a task at work I always ask the questions based off the “elements of reasoning” I learned in Chapter 2 of our book. Asking about my tasks’ purpose, question at issue, purpose, assumptions, implications and consequences to name a few (Nosich, 2012). I have noticed a significant improvement in my ability to accomplish my tasks using what have learned from this class and applying them to my work. Before this course, the products and briefs I prepared for my boss was returned to me to make corrections, but the errors have minimalized and my boss is now praising my work. In my spare time, I train and coach at a local crossfit gym, and I have also applied the tools that I have learned to my coaching methods which as benefited the athletes.

In my everyday life, I have been able to use the tools learned. I have been able to internalize the techniques and concepts that I learned because it is in my nature of work and the position I hold that requires me to think critically.  I think my subordinates think I am more aggressive in the workplace now and my superiors really notice and appreciate my new way of thinking. I don’t just settle for ordinary anymore, I actually question everything I do now, “Why?, How?, and What is the purpose? Etc…”  I have been able to implement the “Going around the circle” concept into my work and briefs. I have bosses to answer too and always want to ensure I have covered all aspects of the circle and their own personal logic. It is a tool that my peers do not have yet but I mentor them and give them as much advice as I can to set them up for success.

Although I am still learning my craft and discipline I believe it will take constant practice to become truly successful. Bruce Lee said “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times”. With that analogy I believe that is what it will take for me to have a positive change in my thinking. I honestly believe that the process of officer promotion in the military and the challenges I face in my career will have a lasting impact and change my way of thinking. I know that as I promote in the military, the tolerance for mistakes grows lower and lower, however thorough analysis and thinking will help me succeed.