On Becoming a Critical Thinker is a comprehensive guide that equip readers with the essential skills to analyze information. make informed decisions, and solve complex problems. Through practical exercises and real life examples this book will transform the way readers approach challenges enabling them to navigate the business and finance world with confidence and precision.
About the Author
He has filled the titles of Full Professor and Dean at universities in the US
Before he worked in academia he serves as the CEO of a behavioral health care organization and has consulted to businesses and NGOs across the globe. His consultations include the World Health Organization along with several other high-profile organizations. In his consultation roles he provided assistance with communication, planning, leadership development, and critical thinking.
He has served as a keynote speaker of a variety of topics to Tianjin Medical University, University of Massachusetts Medical School, the Society for Professional Communicators, and served as the Graduation Speaker for Spoleczna Akademia Nauck (School of Social Science) in Warsaw, Poland.
Reviews of On Becoming a Critical Thinker
Academic theories often seemed like distant stars – beautiful to ponder but out of reach. John Chetro Szivos changed that for me. Through real-life example and relatable stories, he bridged the gap between theoretical critical thinking and its application in everyday life. The chapter of decision-making resonated deeply, helping me make a life-changing career move that I’d been hesitating over for years. The book made the stars within my grasp.
-Beulah M.
From the moment I started reading John Chetro Szivos’ book, I was captivated by its promise to elevate my critical thinking skills, promising transformations in both my personal and professional realms. The book lived up to its bold title, brimming with a rich array of strategies, techniques, and insights designed to sharpen decision-making, enhance problem-solving capabilities, and refine reasoning skills.
- Wayne M.
Szivos opens with a persuasive introduction that sets the stage for a transformative journey. He shares personal anecdotes and insights from his diverse career establishing credibility and engaging the reader from the outset. The narrative is imbued with a sense of purpose and urgency, emphasizing the indispensable nature of critical thinking in navigating the complexities and misinformation prevalent in today’s information-saturated environment.
-William A.
A must-read for anyone aiming to clear the fog of habitual thinking and step into clearer more deliberate habits.
-Lang Q.
Reflection Of Thinking
About the Book
Reader Reviews
★★★★★
In the realm of business education, Szivos’ work stands out for its comprehensive treatment of critical thinking, skillfully bridging the gap between theoretical underpinnings and practical application. The historical context provided enriches the narrative, making it an excellent resource for students and educators alike. However, the book’s unconventional citation style might pose a challenge for academic use, despite its substantial contributions to understanding critical thinking in business.
★★★★★
John Chetro Szivos transcends the typical boundaries of academic discourse to deliver a profound exploration of what it truly means to think critically. With a narrative that is as eloquent as it is enlightening, Szivos doesn’t merely inform; he transforms. Drawing from a diverse wellspring of disciplines, he crafts a compelling case for critical thinking as the quintessential human superpower, indispensable in the labyrinth of modern business and life.
★★★★★
This book is an enlightening journey through the landscape of critical thinking, skillfully blending theoretical insights with practical applications. The author masterfully addresses the increasingly complex information landscape we navigate daily, providing readers with the tools necessary to dissect information critically, make informed decisions, and approach complex problems with a structured mindset.
★★★★★
The book is written in a way that’s easy to get into, mixing stories from the real world, exercises that make you think, and hands-on advice. It’s like going on an adventure where you learn how to sharpen your critical thinking skills, and honestly, it’s pretty fun too.
Chetro Szivos knows his stuff, and it shows. He doesn’t just throw big ideas at you; he breaks them down, making them super clear and something you can actually use. And the examples he uses are spot-on—they make everything click. By the time you’re done with the book, you feel like you’ve got a new superpower for the business world.
★★★★★
Personally I enjoyed this book because it resonated with me. I am a college student and people my age are already seen as taking the easy route and using technology to solve all of our problems. But I understand where this book is coming from and agree with it. Critical thinking helps us map out everything and break down the issues at hand as well as finding the right solutions. In my case when it comes to school I have to think critically about other books and text to break down what the true meaning and message of the text actually is. I feel like this book should be recommended to many young individuals to show them the power of their own minds and to sometimes take a break from reaching to technology to solve all their problems.
★★★★★
This book stands out for its compelling emphasis on cultivating a growth mindset as a critical component of critical thinking. Szivos masterfully illustrates how a shift from a fixed to a growth mindset can unlock our full potential, not just in our careers but in every aspect of our lives. The personal anecdotes and real-life examples make the concept relatable and the proposed strategies for fostering this mindset are both simple and effective. This focus on personal transformation through mindset change is what makes the book an invaluable guide for anyone looking to overcome limitations and embrace continuous learning and growth.
★★★★★
The book goes beyond traditional discussions of ethics to offer a nuanced approach that integrates critical thinking with moral considerations. By presenting complex ethical dilemmas and guiding readers through the decision-making process, Szivos encourages a deeper reflection on the values and principles that underpin ethical choices. This focus on ethical decision-making, supported by practical frameworks and real-world examples, makes the book an essential read for anyone seeking to navigate the complex moral landscape of the modern business world with integrity and foresight. Highly recommended!
★★★★★
Szivos presents critical thinking in a manner that is both deep and practical. The book is filled with actionable techniques and tools, far from mere theoretical concepts, poised to significantly boost one’s analytical prowess, decision-making acumen, and effective reasoning when put into practice.
His writing style is both accessible and engaging, breaking down complex ideas into digestible pieces without compromising their depth. The interactive elements of the book reinforce the lessons learned, making the journey not only educational but also enjoyable.
★★★★★
Before stumbling upon John Chetro Szivos’ masterpiece, I felt trapped in the quicksand of a fixed mindset. My fear of failure overshadowed my aspirations, leaving me stagnant in both my career and personal life. The chapter on Fixed and Growth Mindsets was a revelation. It was as if John spoke directly to me, encouraging me to see challenges not as threats but as stepping stones. Implementing the strategies outlined, I began to embrace risks, leading to a promotion I once deemed unattainable. This book didn’t just change my mindset; it transformed my life’s trajectory.
★★★★★
I was adrift, a ship without a compass, in the vast ocean of life’s possibilities, paralyzed by the fear of choosing the wrong path. Szivos’ narrative on personal transformation through critical thinking was the lighthouse guiding me to safe shores. By applying the principles outlined in the book, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, identifying my passions and aligning them with my career. This book was more than a read; it was an odyssey that led me to a fulfilling role in non-profit leadership, where I now make a tangible difference in the world.
★★★★★
A transformative read that not only challenges conventional notions of thinking but also serves as a comprehensive guide for educators aiming to cultivate a generation of adept critical thinkers.
★★★★★
John Chetro Szivos On Becoming a Critical Thinker is a must-read for every business leader striving to navigate the complexities of the modern corporate world. The book’s emphasis on transitioning from traditional problem-solving to embracing adaptive challenges resonates with my experience in the ever-evolving business landscape. Szivos’ holistic approach, blending skills and disposition, provides a practical guide that extends beyond mere academic theory, making it invaluable for real-world applications.
★★★★★
Lost in the hustle of life, I seldom paused to reflect on my actions or their consequences. The section on reflective thought in Szivos’ book was a profound wake-up call. I started dedicating time to introspect on my daily decisions and their alignment with my long-term goals. This practice not only improved my decision-making skills but also enhanced my relationships, as I became more considerate and empathetic. The book taught me that in the silence of reflection, the loudest answers are found. My journey from a reactive to a reflective individual has been nothing short of transformative.
★★★★★
Szivos masterfully unravels the essence of critical thinking, turning it into an indispensable toolkit for every business professional seeking to navigate the complexities of the modern corporate world.
★★★★★
I’ve always prided myself on being logical, often at the expense of acknowledging my emotions in decision-making. John’s holistic approach to critical thinking, emphasizing emotional intelligence, was a game-changer for me. The sections on understanding and integrating emotions into rational thought helped me mend strained relationships and become a more empathetic leader. It was a profound emotional awakening that has enriched my life beyond measure.
★★★★★
As an aspiring entrepreneur, the uncertainty and complexity of starting a business were overwhelming. The practical tools and worksheets in ‘On Becoming a Critical Thinker’ became my lifeline. The SWOT and PESTEL analyses weren’t just theoretical concepts; they were the compass that guided my business through its tumultuous early days. John’s book was more than a read; it was an interactive experience that empowered me to navigate the stormy seas of entrepreneurship.
★★★★★
Caught up in the minutiae of daily tasks, I often lost sight of the bigger picture. The sections on systems thinking opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of all things. It was a form of enlightenment, enabling me to approach problems with a broader perspective and develop more holistic solutions. This approach has not only improved my professional projects but also helped me understand the complexities of personal relationships.
★★★★★
My worldview was a prison of my own cognitive biases until I encountered John’s enlightening work. The chapters dedicated to recognizing and overcoming these biases liberated me from mental shackles. I learned to question my assumptions, leading to more balanced judgments and a more open-minded approach to life. This book was a key that unlocked a broader, more inclusive perspective of the world.
★★★★★
John uses clear, straightforward language and practical examples to make complex ideas easy to grasp. This guide is particularly valuable for those looking to enhance their decision-making processes and problem-solving abilities in both personal and professional contexts.
★★★★★
In an age where information bombards us from all directions, distinguishing between what’s useful and what’s noise became my greatest challenge. John’s book was the beacon I needed. The strategies for analyzing and evaluating information helped me cut through the clutter, focus on what truly matters, and shield myself from the paralyzing effects of information overload.