Always consider the second and third-order consequences of your actions.

“Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another.”

Be more mindful. Notice what is going on around you. This could mean going on a walk or bike ride or simply sitting outside in the fresh air while taking in the sights and sounds of your surroundings.

“Thinking is learning all over again how to see, directing one’s consciousness, making of every image a privileged place.”

Pay attention to what you are thinking and feeling at any given time. By watching your thoughts, you can become more aware of how your mind works and how you can improve its function.

To grow and develop as a thinker, you need people with different ways of seeing things.

For better or worse. “You are what you think.” While this may be true, it is important to remember that your experiences and environment shape your thoughts.

Your brain is one of your most valuable assets. It controls your

Challenge your beliefs/ assumptions. If you have a particular worldview, it can be helpful to challenge it with new evidence or viewpoints.

Be willing to be wrong — even though this may feel uncomfortable initially, it will ultimately serve you in the long run.

A smarter brain thrives on something new. New things strengthen the connections between your neurons and create new pathways for information to flow through your brain more efficiently.

“Learning without thought is labour lost; thought without learning is perilous.”

Learn to use the four quadrants of the mind: logic, intuition, emotions and creativity. When trying to solve a problem, use all four quadrants by drawing connections between different parts of your brain.

Make reading a daily habit. Reading stimulates your brain and improves both your vocabulary and critical thinking skills.

Ask better questions: Start with “Why”. “Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers.”

Seek credible assumptions. New information never hurts anyone and can even be beneficial in the long run.

Good thinkers diversity their day, routine or ritual at least once a week.

When reading an article, listening to a podcast or watching a YouTube video, take notes on what stood out for you.

Make it a habit to think about how your thought process works and try to find flaws in your logic if applicable.

Keep a journal and reflect on your thinking experiences. The more you train your brain to think, the better off you will be.

Spend time with smarter people.

A healthy diet, regular exercise, and plenty of rest are all essential for optimizing your brain health.

Whether learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or picking up a new skill, your brain will become more intelligent when something new is always challenging.

Avoid overwork or deep mental strain if you can: it can make it harder for your brain to perform at peak efficiency.

First, exposing yourself to different ideas and perspectives is vital — especially when they challenge our assumptions or beliefs.

Spend time with people who challenge your own thinking.

Stay away from people who only agree with you or those who pester you until you agree with them instead; this will only hinder your growth.

“When people will not weed their own minds, they are apt to be overrun by nettles.”

Don’t become too sedentary: careful balance between sleep, exercise, and work is essential for your overall brain health.

Embrace your ignorance but maintain your curiosity. It’s OK not to know everything all the time. Everyone has gaps in their knowledge.

Think for yourself: question everything you hear and see without accepting anything at face value. “A man who does not think for himself does not think at all.”

Take time to think through any life-changing decision (and its short and long-term effects).

Thinking clearly is a key skill for success. When you improve your thinking skills, you can quickly make smarter decisions. As you grow, new challenges will emerge, and you’ll need to think outside your usual box.

Your brain is one of your most valuable assets. It controls your next action — for better or worse. “You are what you think.” While this may be true, it is important to remember that your experiences…

HORACE WALPOLE

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