Independent thinking is a powerful personal and professional life skill. An independent thinker knows how to make wise and thoughtful decisions and then has the inner confidence to follow through on the choices and decisions he has made.

Where does this self-confidence to think proactively and independently begin? It starts with a healthy self-esteem. A healthy self-esteem allows you the inner confidence to believe in yourself and your ability to know what is best in any given situation.

Independent thinkers are not stubborn or “loners” or mavericks.

Independent thinkers are able to use their inner confidence and unstoppable belief in themselves to:

  • think creatively
  • Set and achieve goals that move you positively forward
  • Actively contribute as a team player and leader.
  • Be proactive with your choices and your lives.

One thing I know for sure is that the choices you are making today can, and probably will, have a lasting impact well into the future. Independent thinking allows you to control your decisions and choices. Even small everyday choices and decisions can produce big results. Frederick Speakman probably said it best when he said: “Decisions determine destiny.”

When you think about it, can you see how learning to think independently can become a powerful skill in building a personal and professional life and business?

Here’s the really good news: Being an independent thinker is a learned skill. When it comes to making smart decisions, you have options: you can decide to be proactive and an independent thinker or reactive and follow the crowd. Proactive thinking is when you weigh your options and then have the confidence in yourself to take the appropriate action. Reactive thinking, on the other hand, means responding to a situation and often leaving its fate to others.

Being reactive can take away your personal power and undermine your self-esteem. Being proactive can give you the ability to think things through, weigh your options, and make smart, well-informed decisions. Living proactively starts with an unshakable belief in your ability to know what’s best for your current situation, and that belief starts with healthy self-esteem.

I have found from personal experience that when your self-esteem is strong and healthy, you are more likely to trust your judgment and think independently. The healthier your self-esteem, the more willing you are to believe in yourself as a capable decision-maker. Independent thinking and wise choices begin with strong inner self-confidence, and that self-confidence begins with healthy self-esteem. Are you an independent thinker?