Power of balance: Critical thinking and mindfulness

Monday, 11 August 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Doing a mind map to identify the systems linkages, facilitator Lalith Gunaratne made a connection from critical thinking, to cognition to the mind, emotions, feelings and needs. Critical thinking has become an important part of being a professional in a world that has speeded up in its pace for decision making and action. To add to that people are expected to make decisions in a very volatile and uncertain business environment. This then requires people to hone their critical thinking skills. The three most important aspects of critical thinking are quick thinking, creative thinking, and analytical thinking

The challenge is that thinking, cognition and emotions are also grey as human beings are fallible and prone to mistakes due to poor judgment or evaluation of situations. When there are defined and definite processes and systems, it is easy to train people to act accordingly, but when professionals need to think on their feet, analyse and be creative and at the same time to make fast decisions, self knowledge and awareness becomes important. The basic critical thinking process is a series of defined steps, but if the initial evaluation and judgement is biased due to pre-conceived notions and prejudices, the process may not lead to an optimal decision.

That is where mindfulness comes in. Being mindful and aware of one’s own biases, fears and prejudices enables the professional to ensure that they do not hinder decisions and actions for the greater good. The entire program weaved in the mindfulness practice as an integral part of being a critical thinker, as such critical thinking and decision making is both an art and a science. The notion of the corporate athlete is important for today’s fast paced business not only to perform at work, but also to look after self, to find that balance, which helps one to be emotionally intelligent in order to develop trusting relationships. The program introduced mindfulness techniques in breathing and secular meditation as well as Non-Violent Communications (NVC) techniques as a part of the self mastery required to be sound critical thinkers. This program is just the beginning for many on an inquiring journey for self knowledge and mastery and requires a commitment to a disciplined practice and continuous learning in order to be in top shape as a corporate athlete.

Request for repeat presentation on ‘Critical Thinking and Mindfulness’

Lalith Gunaratne’s workshop on ‘Power of Balance’ Critical Thinking and Mindfulness – organised by The Management Club, was very well received and due to the request for a repeat program, Guneratne has agreed to conduct another session for those who missed this opportunity. Lalith Gunaratne’s visit to Sri Lanka after three years, created a great opportunity for our Lankan leaders, who were able to listen to his thoughts and ideas on the theme ‘Power of Balance: Critical Thinking and Mindfulness’ at the workshop organised by The Management Club on Thursday 7 August 2014. Participants were treated to a unique program, perhaps never before presented. His thoughts and ideas on critical thinking and mindfulness were so relevant to modern day leadership. A relatively shortened Evening Presentation on the subject is to be held on 26 August at the Jasmine Room, Galadari Hotel at 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. followed by fellowship and refreshments. TMC Members and their guests holding positions in management and leadership may well find this presentation useful, interesting and indeed valuable in their work and domestic life. Participation would be limited to 15 and therefore confirm early reservation by calling Veronica on 5860001 or mobile 0774033875 or email [email protected] The charge would be Rs. 1,500 per head for refreshments.