{"ops":[{"insert":"In my last blog I pointed out that critical thinking should not be viewed in a narrow way, with sole emphasis on finding problems in reasoning, or even for solving problems and making good decisions. Of course, the tools of critical thinking can and should be used in specific, directed ways to improve reasoning for a given purpose. But critical thinking, to maximize its potency, should be used across all of your life, broadly and deeply, to achieve the highest levels of self-fulfillment and self-expression. To go beyond conceptualizing critical thinking as a simple, prescribed set of skills, we need to consider how critical thinking can help us in all the domains of our lives. I will explore some of these ways in this and some upcoming blogs.\n\nConsider, for instance, music as a way of finding meaning, relieving stress, and achieving mental well-being. For many people, music is an essential part of life. They may express their connection to music by playing an instrument, singing, listening to music, dancing, and so forth. Research into the importance of music to humans (and other species) has developed in the last decade or more. Since every person is unique, the responsibility lies with each of us to figure out what makes us happy and healthy. If music is important to your peace of mind, how do have your music needs met? Are you bringing enough music into your life? Are you neglecting this part of yourself? If so, why? What can you do to bring music back into your life? Do you play an instrument? Do you want to play an instrument? If so, what is stopping you?\n\nThere are many ways in which you can achieve balance and sense of well-being through music. When I write, I always listen to classical instrumental music. Without this music I am easily distracted, and with the music, my thoughts seem to flow better. I do not mean at all to imply that every person needs music. I do mean to assert that each of us must find our own path to happiness and sense of wellbeing through the active decisions we make, whether about music or anything else.\n\nFor those of you interested in traditional music, I suggest these lovely pieces:\n\nAdagio by Il Divo\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"#0563c1","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w77SFM7Fksc"},"insert":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w77SFM7Fksc"},{"insert":"\n\nWe Will Meet Once Again by Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"#0563c1","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bg8A30a8tXM"},"insert":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bg8A30a8tXM"},{"insert":"\n\nAve Maria by Il Volo\n"},{"attributes":{"color":"#0563c1","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jwo_tg1KFxc"},"insert":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jwo_tg1KFxc"},{"insert":"\n"}]}