For student athletes, there is the demand of classes coupled with practices and games in a chosen sport. Juggling everything can be a challenge, and it is easy to get stressed as well as make make bad choices. But with the help of critical thinking exercises, students can improve their outlook, make smarter decisions, and better manage their lives at college. Here are a few ways to more effectively navigate obstacles and questions in your own life:
Separate Fact from Opinion
Whenever you get information, think it over to determine whether it is truth, or based upon bias and personal feelings. It can be tricky, but it helps to hone judgment and recognize assumptions. For example, “I scored a goal, but missed the defense” is a fact, and “I’m a bad soccer player” is an assumption. When you can recognize correct knowledge, you can control anger or fear, and exercise smarter judgment.
Use Your Instincts
Speaking of judgment, listen to your gut more. Combine facts from intuition to make choices. Many daily decisions are often made on your own instincts, so it is wise to hone in on them. Tap into your subconscious and pay attention to good and bad feelings when when making decisions. Whether deciding on a class project or what play to make in the middle of a game, using your intuition helps in countless situations.
Try a Different Angle
We all know the phrase ‘think outside the box ‘. It means to think differently, to see things from another side or angle. This is one of the most common critical thinking exercises and helps develop creative thought. Trying out new ideas seeing things from someone else’s perspective can aid in you making more well-rounded choices. Listen to another point of view, or try a different approach to writing a paper, team practice, and enjoying social
activities.
With good methods to develop cognitive skills, student athletes can thrive in all settings. These are just a few critical thinking exercises that can help you analyze information, process emotions, and be more perceptive when it comes to decision-making. From major career decisions to what to eat for dinner, critical thinking skills help students in all areas of college life.
Be proactive, don’t wait for bad behavior issues to occur. Complete the form below for a free consultation on how The Leeward Team can enhance the critical thinking skills of your student athletes.
Crossroads Decision® Critical Thinking Training for Student Athletes