In this episode, hosts Merv Jersak and Tim Jerome discuss cognitive agility, continuous learning, and the importance of developing strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The conversation covers various techniques, such as the use of emotional intelligence, the role of mentors, and handling stakeholder expectations. They also touch on the potential of AI in project management and its limitations. The episode is filled with practical tips and personal experiences aimed at helping project managers become better thinkers and leaders.

Main Take-Aways

What’s in it for our listeners? Listen to these discussion points on applying the best approaches to problem-solving and using critical thinking skills:

• the importance of continuous learning and applying that learning
• converting analytical skills into critical thinking skills
• applying emotional intelligence to developing better critical thinking
• applying lessons learned
• fostering a collaborative environment
• disciplining yourself to demonstrating critical thinking
• seeking mentorship
• considering risk
• the benefits of good critical thinking skills
• applying critical thinking when information is lacking
• living with imperfect decisions
• applying critical thinking in stakeholder situations
• critical thinking and artificial intelligence

Show Notes

Today’s Project Managers Coffee Chat: Critical Thinking and What’s in it for Me

00:27 Introducing the third episode of the week regarding critical thinking with the focus on WIFM (What’s In It For Me).

01:20 Stressing the importance of continuous learning to round you out as a project manager beyond just process and technology, and putting into practice what you learn.

03:05 Applying your analytical skills to becoming more skilled in critical thinking.

03:53 Applying emotional intelligence to develop your critical thinking.

05:12 Being reflective regarding the results of decisions and applying lessons learned.

05:37 Fostering a collaborative environment for your teams and stakeholders to develop their critical thinking skills.

06:20 Disciplining yourself to demonstrate solid critical thinking in problem-solving.

06:41 Developing your critical thinking skills by seeking out and applying mentorship.

08:44 Considering risk as an aspect of having good critical thinking skills.

09:15 The benefits to your career of having good critical thinking skills; also, the benefits of good critical thinking to your community influence and personal decision making.

12:21 Applying critical thinking in situations where you have incomplete information, and the usefulness of nudges and hunches.

14:06 Living with imperfect decisions.

15:14 Applying critical thinking skills to help your stakeholders in participating well in their own solutions.

18:09 Working with Artificial Intelligence as your assistant but not your critical thinker; you still have the edge in your ability to apply good critical thinking.