From Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson (1893) by Sidney Paget
He is known for his logical reasoning, which stems from his probabilistic thinking and deduction skills. His only and best friend is Doctor John Watson, and they both live in London at 221B Baker Street. He is a consulting private detective with an outstanding mind-power. Created by Sir Arthur Donan Coyle, he is Sherlock Holmes, the best detective in the world, who, throughout the novels and short stories, has solved at least 60 of the most mind-consuming and mysterious cases not even Scotland Yard could solve. So, in this edition of The Mindsets, we’ll explore the qualities, virtues and skills Sherlock has that make him the most extraordinary detective in the world. As Sherlock Holmes said, “Education never ends, Watson. It is a series of lessons with the greatest for the last.”
1. Observational Skills
Sherlock’s observational skills teach us the worth of being present. Whenever Sherlock works at a crime scene, he relies on his mindful observational skills to comprehend the situation as much as possible. By being observant, he allows himself to be aware of the details from which most valuable evidence and theories tend to emerge. The first glance permits him to understand the situation, but his observational skills enable him to solve the case. So, like Sherlock, know the value of mindfully observing your surroundings when working on a problem. Becoming observant takes time, but as you work on it, you acquire a skill you do not have to focus on using as it becomes part of your thinking process. We must not just see but observe.
2. Analytical Thinking
Sherlock’s analytical thinking teaches us about the power of our minds. Without his analytical thinking, Sherlock’s observational skills wouldn’t bring much success. After observing the crime scene, witnesses and suspects, Sherlock must process and analyse the information. Hence, by observing properly, he creates a larger pool of information regarding the case to make links and establish a proper theory through his meticulous, analytical thinking process. Thinking outside the box, being sceptical of what you learn and trusting the facts are tools he uses to sharpen his analysis. Similarly, whenever we have been observant regarding a problem, we must accompany this with proper analytical thinking to conclude with the best answer.
3. Objective
Sherlock’s objectivity teaches us the value of relying on facts. As mentioned, Sherlock leans heavily, if not only, on facts and backed-up ideas during his analysis. Sherlock never believes blindly and doesn’t let emotions cloud his judgment. Therefore, he relies on rationality and, ultimately, objectivity, enabling him to see cases coldly and overcome the emotional impairment behind the human aspect. However, it is vital to note how sometimes his rationality has made him hard to work with, as Sherlock doesn’t account for other people’s feelings when dealing with them. Thankfully, his best friend, Dr. Watson, is beside him to create that balance. So, when solving a problem, recognise the value of being objective. Trust facts, backed-up ideas and rationality, but do not forget the value behind emotions when dealing with people, whether they are your team members, employees, clients or strangers.
Sherlock’s methodic and logical reasoning, deduction skills and probabilistic thinking make him the most exceptional and efficient private consulting detective. He is known for solving mysteries no one else can and for never giving up, no matter how challenging the incognita is. Therefore, to become such outstanding problem and mystery solvers as Sherlock Holmes, we must remember to rely on our observational skills; the details are where the answers are hidden. We must also not forget to be analytical regarding what we observe and understand, as being meticulous, sceptical and probabilistic when analysing will lead us to the most accurate deductions and answers. And finally, we must be objective when dealing with complex questions without disregarding the value of emotions and empathy when working and dealing with those around us. So, we invite you to adopt The Sherlock Holmes Mindset as we strive to become the best problem-solvers in our stories.
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