The Surprising Truth About AI and Critical Thinking

One of the biggest criticisms of AI is that it’s making us lazy thinkers. Some say it’s dulling our ability to reason, problem-solve, or think independently.  And for those who simply copy and paste whatever AI suggests, that might be true.

But here’s what I’ve found, some of the most thoughtful, forward-looking leaders I know are using AI to challenge assumptions, strengthen decisions, and anticipate what’s around the corner.  In these cases, AI is not replacing critical thinking, it’s sharpening it. 

Sure, AI can generate a compelling business case, but it can also poke holes in your logic. AI can help you write a summary, but it can also test a theory or help you play out a scenario you might not have considered on your own. The key isn’t what you use AI for, it’s how you use it. So instead of asking, “Is AI making us lazy thinkers?”, maybe the better question is, “Am I using AI to challenge my thinking, or just confirm it?”

Here are four ways leaders are using AI to sharpen their critical thinking, and you can too:

1. Use AI to Pressure-Test Your Ideas It’s easy to rely on your own logic, especially when the pace is fast and decisions are stacked back-to-back. AI can help you slow down just enough to ask:

 “What am I missing?”

“Can you play devil’s advocate and surface some counterarguments to this idea that I haven’t considered?”

You’re not asking AI to decide for you. You’re using it as a thinking partner to explore new angles.

2. Turn Messy Data into Better Insights

Most leaders are drowning in data and spend way too much time trying to separate the signal from the noise.  AI can help with that. You can ask:

"These two data sets seem to tell different stories. What are the most likely reasons for the discrepancy, and how should I weigh each source when making a decision?"

“Based on this sales report, what patterns or anomalies stand out?”  

This isn’t just faster. It’s smarter. AI can process more variables than most of us can track on our own. As a result, leaders can spend less time wrestling with messy data and more time making smart calls based on what the data actually reveals.

3. Anticipate Resistance Before It Shows Up

AI isn’t just great at answering questions, it’s great

at helping you anticipate others potential concerns and questions. Especially when you're rolling out a change and want to stay ahead of the curve. Skip the generic, “What’s a good way to lead this change?” and instead ask:

“What hidden resistance points should I anticipate if I roll this out in [department/team]?”

"What might this initiative unintentionally signal to our employees?”

These kinds of prompts force you to think through stakeholder reactions before you're in the thick of managing them. They sharpen your empathy and strategic foresight, before you hit send.

4. Disrupt Your Own Thinking

One of the most unproductive traps of being a seasoned leader, is getting too comfortable with your own viewpoint. AI can help shake that up, if you ask it to.

“Here’s the direction I’m leaning. What would someone in marketing/finance/HR say that I might be missing?” 

"What would our clients, channel partners, or agencies say about this?"

You don’t need to agree with the alternative. But seeing it? That’s what turns a good decision into a well-thought one.

The Bottom Line?

AI isn’t making us lazy thinkers. But using it passively might.

If you treat AI like a shortcut, that’s what you’ll get, speed without learning and depth. But if you treat it like a partner, you’ll find new ways to challenge assumptions, anticipate reactions, and see what others might miss.

And in today’s always-on, do-more world, that’s not just smart. That’s strategic.

What I’m Working On - Making AI Practical for Real-World Leaders

I’ve been working on a new kind of resource, called the AI Boosted Leader. A learning program that gives you clear strategies, practical prompts, and AI-assisted workflows that match the leadership pressures you face every day. Whether you’re prioritizing a full plate, coaching a struggling employee, or preparing for something you’ve never handled before, this program designed to meet you where you are.

Want first access to this leadership learning program? Click here to get insider updates and a front-row seat to the launch of this AI-powered growth system.

I’d love your input! Do you prefer learning through on-demand video lessons, live interactive labs, or something else? Share your choice in the comments below and help me design the ultimate AI-boosted leadership experience."

Until next time,

Sara

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