The Skill You've Never Been Taught: How to Think and Make Good Decisions

The Skill You've Never Been Taught: How to Think and Make Good Decisions

Thinking is a fundamental cognitive process that shapes our perception, understanding, and decision-making abilities. However, in today's fast-paced world filled with distractions and information overload, many of us struggle to cultivate this essential skill. This article delves into the importance of thinking, the pitfalls of multitasking, and the power of concentration and patience. We also explore the case of Pinterest, a platform that understands the value of good thinking and how it translates into success.

Multitasking is a common practice in our modern lives. We often pride ourselves on juggling multiple tasks simultaneously, believing it makes us more efficient and productive. However, research has shown that multitasking is not only ineffective but also detrimental to our ability to think. Studies have revealed that the more people multitask, the worse they become at multitasking itself, as well as other mental abilities. In essence, multitasking impairs our capacity to think.

Thinking, on the other hand, is the act of concentrating on one thing long enough to develop an idea about it. It goes beyond simply acquiring information or learning other people's ideas. True thinking requires us to focus, be patient, and allow all parts of our mind to come into play. It is through this concentrated effort that we can arrive at original and creative ideas.

Thomas Mann, a renowned writer, once said that writing is more difficult for writers than it is for other people. This sentiment can be applied to thinking as well. Good thinking is a skill that needs to be honed and practiced. It requires us to dedicate time and mental energy to the process. By giving our brains the chance to make associations, draw connections, and surprise us, we can enhance our ability to think critically and come up with innovative solutions.

In the world of business, good thinking is crucial for making effective decisions. Pinterest, a popular social media platform, understands this concept well. Their focus on providing inspiring content and enhancing the user experience has led to their success. They have invested in video and shopping features, recognizing that video is the default format people use for inspiration. By enabling traders to publish directly onto the platform and delivering relevant ads, Pinterest ensures that users find inspiration aligned with their interests and intentions.

Pinterest's growth in monthly active users and revenue exemplifies the power of good thinking. They have added over 100 million monthly active users globally in 2020, with their international business growing by 145%. By understanding their target audience, particularly Gen Z, and adapting to their preferences, Pinterest has managed to stay ahead of the curve. They have also identified pain points, such as the need for a better agency tool and improved access control, and are actively working on addressing them.

So, how can we improve our thinking abilities and make better decisions? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Dedicate time for deep thinking: Set aside specific periods in your day or week where you can focus solely on thinking. Avoid distractions and give yourself the space to explore ideas and make connections. This deliberate practice will strengthen your thinking muscles over time.

2. Embrace patience and concentration: Avoid the temptation to rush through tasks or seek quick solutions. Instead, practice patience and concentrate on the task at hand. Allow your mind to fully engage with the problem, and you'll be more likely to arrive at creative and effective solutions.

3. Continuously seek inspiration: Surround yourself with inspiring content, whether it's through books, podcasts, or online platforms like Pinterest. Exposing yourself to diverse perspectives and ideas will stimulate your thinking and broaden your problem-solving abilities.

In conclusion, thinking is a skill that is often overlooked and underdeveloped. However, it is a critical component of making good decisions and achieving success. By understanding the importance of concentration, patience, and dedicated thinking time, we can enhance our cognitive abilities and unlock our full potential. So, let's prioritize thinking and embrace the power it holds in shaping our lives and the world around us.