Critical Thinkers Maintain an Open Mind

Two extremes that I've seen people adopt after reading a business book:
‍

1. They retain very little afterwards or don't intend to consciously apply any of the learnings, even if they make sense for their situation.

2.They try to force the book's principles on every single thing they do. If the book is a hammer, every process, person and product is the nail.

‍

If someone disagrees, they quote the book as if it's the universal truth. Until they read their next book.

Both extremes are unhealthy.

‍

It's important to note that:

A) Books are a time investment.

If it offers something useful, you owe it to yourself to make use of it.

‍

B) Also, business books are written by people.

We should extract relevant lessons from their experience. However, just because it's in print, doesn't mean it holds true across time and space. It is not beyond debate.

‍

Finding that balance between an open mind while keeping your critical thinking hat on is key.