Here's how you can sharpen your logical reasoning skills to become a more effective leader.

No two humans are built the same and not all of us reason through logic. If you find that emotions trump reason for you, make it a point to allow time before making important decisions. Get in the habit of saying that you need time to make a decision.

to build a good business and brand, you need to understand the logic behind your team's thinking, their strategy to improve the product, to understand the relationship between customer and your product. How your team's logic behind any problem solving, improving skills and thinking to achieving the single goal for the company. A perfect team makes perfect brand.

A straightforward framework for structuring a logical argument involves three components: Goal/Problem, Facts, and Solutions. Typically, everything begins with a problem, accompanied by certain facts. By understanding these facts, you can brainstorm potential solutions. Among the various solutions, you then recommend the one most likely to address the original problem. Using this framework for problem-solving and presenting arguments can enhance clarity and comprehension of your proposal.

Leaders who embrace critical thinking don't just accept information at face value, they delve deeper, questioning assumptions and exploring different perspectives like investigative reporters chasing a lead. By breaking down problems into digestible parts, they unearth insights that others might miss, turning complexity into clarity. It's like solving a puzzle where each piece reveals a bigger picture. In today's fast-paced world, where information overload is the norm, this ability is invaluable. It's not about being right all the time, but about being open to being wrong and learning from it.

There are great training programs on LinkedIn and elsewhere that can teach these skills. The best I have seen are the structured problem solving training that the elite strategy consulting firms teach their people. I received and taught those trainings as a Bain & Co. Consultant and they have served me well ever since in leadership jobs. Google around about “structured problem solving” or “structured communication” to find trainings on it. Or feel free to ask me, as I teach those courses to clients all over the world.

Critical thinking can be enhanced by taking several measures: Encourage curiosity and seek deeper understanding by questioning assumptions, biases, and implications. Evaluate Information Objectively: Practice analyzing data, arguments, and sources of information to discern credibility, relevance, and reliability. Consider Different Perspectives: Engage with diverse viewpoints and actively listen to others’ opinions to broaden your understanding of issues. Challenge Your Own Assumptions: Be willing to reconsider your beliefs and opinions in light of new information or alternative viewpoints.

In my experience, honing critical thinking skills has been invaluable. For instance, while working on a marketing strategy, I initially assumed a specific demographic would be our primary target. However, by questioning this assumption and analyzing alternative viewpoints, I discovered a more lucrative segment. Breaking down the problem into smaller parts, such as market trends, competitor analysis, and customer feedback, allowed me to see the bigger picture and avoid premature conclusions. This comprehensive approach not only improved our strategy but also reinforced the importance of thorough analysis and open-mindedness in decision-making processes.

Ask the right questions helps to open the debate that eventually leads to finding various solutions for the problems. It also allows the team to come together and brainstorm on the outcomes. For instance, I pose open-ended questions in meetings. What are the counterarguments or risks? Also, how do we seek more clarity by asking the reasoning behind different approaches and what offers what benefits? I have found some project management tools, like root cause analysis, very helpful.

I believe as leaders, we need to put ourselves into other stakeholders positions to better understand other perspectives of the situation, so we can evaluate the outcomes of the decision we make and sharp our knowledge about different matters. If you don’t have experienced that situation you can rely on your colleagues expertise and experience asking them questions and examples on how we could make it happen successfully. Having a professional mentor is a great way of getting new insights into different aspects of the business and is a shortcut to shape your own decision making process.

Quem sabe se comunicar com certeza consegue obter insights e informações com mais precisão, o que tende a nos revelar dados importantes sobre a situação em questão e, assim, nos ajudar a tomar decisões mais lógicas, conscientes e eficazes. Para além da comunicação como uma forma de obter informações, esse tópico também abrange a transparência da equipe e estimula a criticidade do time, sendo grandes estimuladores para a inovação. Um líder eficaz consegue gerir isso a partir da comunicação e do desprendimento de fazer perguntas quando julgar e for necessário.

The Cynefin framework, developed by Dave Snowden, helps leaders understand and navigate complex decision-making landscapes. It categorizes problems into five domains: Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, and Confused. Each domain requires a different approach. For Clear situations, use best practices; for Complicated, rely on expert analysis; for Complex, experiment and allow solutions to emerge; for Chaotic, act quickly to regain stability; and for Confused, seek clarity first. By aligning your reasoning to the appropriate domain, you can effectively enhance your logical decision-making and leadership capabilities.

Great leaders understand that effective decision-making hinges on logical reasoning. To navigate challenges systematically, identify your goals first. Then, gather all relevant information and meticulously consider the potential consequences of each option. Weigh the evidence before choosing, and beware of confirmation bias – the tendency to favor information that confirms what you already believe. By adopting this methodical approach, you'll make logical choices that are well-aligned with your objectives. This not only strengthens your leadership skills but also positions you for success in any situation.

Quelques suggestions: Avant toute planification d’activité, il faut adopter un processus mental itératif- IRDA : Intention-Réflexion-Décision-Action. Ce processus itératif mental est source d’efficacité pour entreprendre sa vie, exceller dans son domaine d’expertise, manager et/ou créer son entreprise. Je recommande aussi souvent aux entrepreneurs que j’accompagne de demander avis à une personne ressource proche /mentor avant la dernière décision de passer à l’action afin de pouvoir utiliser son processus itératif pour ajuster le projet. Ce processus ressemble beaucoup à celui pris par un pilote avant le décollage 🛫 d’un avion ✈️ ou une fusée 🚀 !

Logisches Denken ist entscheidend, um langfristige Visionen und nachhaltige Entscheidungen zu treffen. Führungskräfte sollten sicherstellen, dass ihre Entscheidungen nicht nur kurzfristig sinnvoll, sondern auch langfristig tragfähig sind. Dies erfordert eine gründliche Analyse der möglichen Konsequenzen und die Einbeziehung verschiedener Perspektiven. Ein praktisches Beispiel ist die regelmäßige Überprüfung der strategischen Ausrichtung des Unternehmens, um sicherzustellen, dass sie mit den langfristigen Zielen übereinstimmt.

Em nossa busca por racionalidade nas nossas tomadas de decisões, muitas vezes tropeçamos nos nossos sentimentos e nos vieses inconscientes, tudo muito normal, afinal somos humanos. Eu acredito que a tomada de decisão precisa ser pensada, repensada e muito bem embasada na lógica. Sem romantizar, sem ouvir seu ego, apenas seguir a logica e confiar nas experiências passadas em situações parecidas. Tem muita tomada de decisão que já sabemos que não é a correta, pela simples lógica e mesmo assim insistimos.

Who does it? Nobody. But those who do are successful. A simple step of scrolling yesterday's emails first thing in the morning saves from many embarrassments during the day. Monthly once scrolling through your diary helps in recollecting things that could have been missed.

Honing your logical reasoning isn't a one-time fix; it requires constant reflection. Take time to analyze your decision-making process and its outcomes. Identify what led to strong choices and what could be improved. This introspection allows you to learn from experience and recognize patterns in your thinking that might hinder logic. Reflection also fosters awareness of your inherent cognitive biases, those mental shortcuts that can skew objectivity. By consciously examining your thought processes, you can strive for fairer reasoning and ultimately, better decision-making in all aspects of life.

Reflection is the silent accelerator of leadership growth. Here's how to harness its power: Schedule introspection: Make reflection a non-negotiable habit. Analyze decisions objectively: Examine outcomes without ego. Identify patterns: Recognize recurring themes in your choices. Challenge your biases: Confront uncomfortable truths. Learn from failures: View setbacks as growth opportunities. Adjust strategically: Use insights to refine your approach.

As John Dewey wisely noted, “We do not learn from experience… we learn from reflecting on experience.” This approach aids me in spotting patterns in my thinking that may require adjustments and keeps me aware of most biases. Aiming for objectivity allows me to make better decisions and craft stronger arguments. During reflection, I recall Aristotle’s insight: “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” This habit fosters continuous development and a deeper grasp of my own reasoning. Through reflection, I’ve learned that improving my logical skills isn’t just about acquiring new knowledge—it’s about consistently applying and enhancing them in my daily life.

Reflecting regularly creates growth in one's emotional intelligence and better decision making Emotional intelligence means self awareness and self awareness helps to make decisions based on facts but not feelings

Regular practice is essential for mastering any skill. To improve, set clear goals and break them into manageable steps. Create a consistent routine and track your progress. Stay motivated by celebrating small achievements. Reflect on your efforts regularly to identify areas for improvement. By maintaining discipline and persistence, you'll steadily enhance your abilities.

Em tempos de respostas fáceis e dadas por IA a lógica vem sendo menos solicitada ao nosso dia a dia. Isso acaba enferrujando a nossa capacidade de análise. Precisamos exercitar a mente assim como fazemos com o corpo, se desafie com mais frequência. Dia desses peguei uma prova de lógica para resolver e no começo parecia que eu não ia mais dar conta de responder tudo no tempo solicitado, depois "peguei no tranco". A prática é essencial.

Sure, practicing logical reasoning through puzzles and games can sharpen your skills, but it's not a guarantee for real-world success. You might become a master at Sudoku, but that won't necessarily make you the next Sherlock Holmes. Plus, debating viewpoints is great until you realize your strongest argument is "because I said so." Still, honing logical thinking is crucial—it's like training to be a superhero without the cape; you might not save the world, but you'll definitely impress at trivia night.

I’m all about practicing, but I don’t find you need to argue you points in order to practice. I do believe that part of practicing is learning and part of learning is growing. I think it is healthy to hear other perspectives and to understand where other people are coming from. You don’t always have to agree, but they may just take you out of your box and help you think a little bit deeper on the subject.

Leadership, whether self-leadership or leading others, demands a versatile toolkit. One invaluable tool I've found is rooted in narrative: "always consider different points of view and perspectives." Here, the point of view is who tells the story, while perspective is how they perceive it. In any relationship, each participant holds a unique point of view, shaping their distinct perspective on the same situation. For instance, while both may see a cellphone, one focuses on the screen and the other on the camera lenses. Although we agree it's a cellphone, our perspectives differ. Don't make your own point of view and your perspective, the only valid ones in a relationship.

In addition to honing your logical reasoning skills, consider integrating emotional intelligence into your leadership approach. Balancing logic with empathy enables you to connect with your team on a deeper level, enhancing communication and collaboration. By combining rational analysis with emotional awareness, you can lead more effectively and inspire greater trust and loyalty within your team.

While not at all times, decisions can be taken in a democratic way. In those situations, it is important to get everyone aligned to why the decision was taken and what are the outcomes. Team buy-in and alignment is an important part in the journey.

Don't jump to conclusions. Train yourself to consider different viewpoints, potential biases, and unintended consequences before making a decision. Play a Devil's advocate and always approach problems by looking for counterarguments. This helps to identify weaknesses in your own reasoning and strengthens the overall decision-making process.