Thinking, Feeling & Actions
Part 2 - Different types of thinking

New ways of thinking that break from your own normal, established pathways.

Breaking down complex concepts into smaller, manageable bits of information in order to solve problems in a logical, methodical, step-by-step manner.

This takes nothing at face-value. Instead it questions everything about the matter at hand: its worth, its validity and the fact that there may be an alternative.

The ability to apply factual information for practical use.

This is the opposite of concrete thinking, dealing in concepts and abstracts and the endless possibilities found in general (rather than specific) ideas.

This collects data from many different directions in order to find solutions and solve problems.

This thinking takes one topic and rolls out all the parts in order to find one solution.

This style of thinking uses one line of approach – and one line only.

This looks at things from many different perspectives. Rather than applying logic, it looks for alternative steps. A person who uses lateral thinking is likely to be an explorer, someone undertaking a journey where the destination is unknown or uncertain.

This is often used in mathematics and in law as a way of arriving at an air-tight conclusion. You may start with a hunch, a hypothesis or a premise that may or may not be proved correct. This type of reasoning could use a rule or idea to determine an outcome, or could be used to test the validity of a rule or an idea.

Using images instead of words.

Being of sound mind: able to have conscious thoughts and able to reason with things, leading to rational decisions.

Unable to apply logic, reason or common sense to your thoughts. Can occur at times of distress or anxiety, or when a person is disorientated and emotionally upset.

Going over and over the same thought processes without being able to complete the operation or move on.

These thoughts, images or urges are both unwelcome and distressing. They are often of a shocking, inappropriate nature, conjured up at inappropriate times/situations.