Independent thinking is a powerful skill for personal and professional life. An independent thinker knows how to make wise and well thought out decisions and then has the inner confidence to follow through with the choices and decisions that 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 positively move them 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 choices and everyday 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 choices: 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 self-confidence to take the appropriate action. Reactive thinking, on the other hand, means responding to a situation and often leaving your 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 is, the more willing you are to believe in yourself as a capable decision maker. Independent thinking and wise choices begin with a strong inner self-confidence, and that self-confidence begins with healthy self-esteem. Are you an independent thinker?