What does it mean to question assumptions? Einstein questioned the assumption that Newtonian laws of motion could accurately describe the world. [2] X Research source He developed an entirely new framework for looking at the world by redescribing what he thought had happened, starting from scratch. We can question assumptions in a similar way. Why do we feel the need to eat in the morning, even when we’re not hungry? Why do we assume that we’ll fail when we haven’t even tried? What other assumptions are we taking for granted that might crumble upon further examination?
Get in the habit of using your instinct to investigate questionable pieces of information. If your gut isn’t satisfied with an explanation, ask the person to elaborate. If you don’t question a fact, read about it or test it yourself. Soon enough, you’ll build up a pretty good sense of what deserves more research and what you’ve determined to be true in your own judgment.
How does ball lightning work? How do fish fall from the sky in the middle of Australia?[4] X Trustworthy Source Library of Congress Official library of the U. S. and main research institution for Congress and the American public Go to source How can we take meaningful steps to fight global poverty? How do we dismantle production of nuclear weapons worldwide?
Solve a problem a day. Spend a little bit of time figuring out a problem and then try to solve it. [11] X Research source The problem could be a theoretical or a personal one. Find the time to exercise consistently. 30 minutes of aerobic exercise — as little as a walk around the neighborhood — can help improve brain function. Eat the right kinds of foods. Avocados, blueberries, wild salmon, nuts and seeds, as well as brown rice play an instrumental role in keeping your brain healthy. [12] X Research source
