Artificial Intelligence cannot replace human skills. Its growth increases the demand for human ‘soft’ skills.
According to Businesswire ‘Critical thinking” and “cognitive flexibility” have topped a list of the most vital 2021 business skills’.
The World Economic Forum also stated that one of the top ten soft skills needed for the future workplace is ‘Cognitive Flexibility.
What is Cognitive Flexibility?
Cognitive flexibility is the brain’s capability to transit from one concept or task to another, work with multiple concepts or tasks at the same time, and be fluid during the transition.
This is not multi-tasking that is doing a lot of things at the same time, it is your ability to swiftly change your thinking process from one dimension to another, recognizing different perceptions, and changing your approach based on the circumstances to obtain the desired result.
People who have high cognitive flexibility are likely to be more adaptable, capable of handling uncertain situations, process new information at a faster rate.
Cognitive flexibility, also facilitates Creativity and Problem sensitivity.
Creativity in cognitive flexibility is when you encounter a complex problem, instead of solving them conventionally, solve the problem innovatively with unlimited possibilities.
Problem sensitivity is to be aware of any problem which has occurred or which might likely occur. This is important in the workplace because rightly identifying or anticipating problems beforehand will lead to cost savings, efforts, and time.
Cognitive skills are highly needed skills for the modern workplace.
Benefits at the workplace:
- Increase your chance for employment.
- Build relationships.
- Solving problems effectively.
- Adaptability towards a rapidly changing environment.
Simple ways to increase cognitive Flexibility:
- Make lifestyle changes.
- Meditate and sleep well.
- Switch to a healthy diet.
- Change your daily routine.
- Be open to new experiences.
- Take up a new hobby.
- Practice creative thinking.
References:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201216005124/en/Employers-Seek-Problem-Solving-Skills-In-2021