From sharp to gentle, critical thinking has helped me see the world with more compassion — and believe more deeply in the power of change.
- Lead For Taiwan
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 16
Shaoyu Wang / 7th Cohort Trained Instructor
Research Topic: Carbon Credits
“Turns out… I can do it too.” This has always been my favorite motto of Lead For Taiwan’s spirit. It was this very phrase that first inspired me to join the critical thinking instructor training.
Growing up within the academic system seemed smooth on the surface, but along the way, I accumulated many doubts and regrets. I felt that there must be aspects of the current system that could be improved—changes that could have a significant positive impact on society.
When I entered university and no longer lived a life strictly following schedules and rote exams, I began to critically reflect on everything. Drawing from my own life experiences, I started to explore new possibilities. It was during this time that I encountered Lead For Taiwan.
They made me realize that simply complaining won’t bring the changes I want to see. Problems can be pondered endlessly, but taking action is the best answer. I’m very fortunate to live in an era with Lead For Taiwan, where, at a time when I have the most energy and flexibility, there are people alongside me addressing the issues I care about most.
During the training, I kept reflecting on the value a “critical thinking instructor” should bring to their students. Yet, I always felt that this title was somehow far beyond my reach.
I had many questions myself that I didn’t know how to find answers to, and I constantly doubted whether I truly possessed critical thinking skills.
一個從小就是讀書考試的人怎麼會上了大學就突然成為傑出的思辨者。
In the end, what saved me was still that old saying: "Turns out... I can do it too."
I gradually came to understand that as a critical thinking instructor, my role is not just to impart knowledge, but to inspire students to question boldly, embrace diverse perspectives, and discover their own influence. This is precisely the core value of Lead For Taiwan’s training — cultivating a new generation that thinks independently and acts courageously.
Finishing the training doesn’t mean the end of thinking—it’s really just the start of a new beginning. Over these past six months, my view of the world has softened, shifting from harsh and sharp to gentle and patient. I now believe I can help bring about the change I want to see and patiently wait for the “Critical Thinking Tree” to bloom and bear fruit.
Once again, being born in an era with Lead For Taiwan is truly like having saved the galaxy in a past life!
撰文 / 王紹宇
