Independent Thinkers Prioritise the Truth Which is Uncomfortable at Work
????♀? Szilvia Olah
Fractional Talent Management Senior Executive | Employee Experience Design | Organisational Psychologist | Two Published Books
Independent thinkers are extremely useful to organisations, families and society in general, but they are uncomfortable for the masses, and we don't like them much.
Independent thinkers perceive the world around them with their own twist instead of being handed information and accepting it. They analyse situations using their own judgment rather than conforming to public opinion. Independent thinkers are critical thinkers, they stay loyal to themselves and aren't afraid to go against the opinion of the majority. Not because they are looking for conflict but because they have the confidence (due to their high level of critical thinking skills) that they are right.
Unfortunately, history tells us that independent thinkers have often been ridiculed, criticised, prosecuted, or even killed; John Snow, Ignaz Semmelweis, Galileo Galilei, Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, Margaret Fuller, Nikola Tesla etc.
So why don't we like independent thinkers at work? They will critically view everything, and we cannot stand that. I previously wrote about it. Check it out . The traits of critical thinkers are the foundation of independent thinking, but it goes beyond that. In addition,:
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So cherish these guys because they are telling you something that the mass is blind to. Always pay attention to those who are alone with their views. First of all, they have the balls to do it. Secondly, they probably have good reasons for standing out when standing out is dangerous and against our nature.
If you want to think differently about organisational practices, here are more ideas:
Retired!
11 个月Thank you SO MUCH for writing this incredibly insightful description of an independent thinker. You are very wise. As an aside, it's my experience in 40+ years of work that these skills are not rewarded in large companies, but are critical in starting new endeavors.
They are very few in organizations; they are confronted with either ignorant or half educated masses in the community or organizational set up.
Teacher of Physics IGCSE @Mansoura college British school. Certified international Trainer (ITOT). AI in Education.
1 年Love this
Intrinsic Motivation Advocate | Personality creates the difference
1 年Great point! Indeed, independent thinkers can often challenge the current conditions and force organizations to grow and improve, even if it means facing uncomfortable truths. Individuals who possess a strong desire for independence are self-sufficient, place significant importance on their personal freedom, and take pleasure in expressing their individuality. It takes courage to prioritize the truth over conformity, especially in a group setting. Having diverse perspectives, including those of independent thinkers, is crucial for success and innovation in any organization. Thanks for sharing this insightful post!