Critical thinking to me is the expansion of your thought to the deepest levels possible without loosing sight of the topic. To see that which is not normally seen at a glance. The ability to expand your mind to see thing differently that how you normally see them is very hard. People tend to see things in one way and that is the way they see them, no exceptions. I think this is what is wrong with people in the world today. Everyone is thinking about themselves and the future but they are forgetting about others and the present.
If people would deviate their one tract minds to accept other possibilities and other peoples beliefs then there would be so much animosity in the world. Critical thinking takes a little time because you have to actually think about what it is at hand but in the end you come away with an understanding only you could have obtained. This is a special thing if you think about it. When you look at a picture you usually see only what was held at the moment and what is superficial but when you look a little closer and see things that aren't normally visible you begin to think about that moment. This allows a deeper understanding of what is happening and if you keep on looking just a little deeper you will continue to gain knowledge. The same goes with school, work, and anything else you can do.
To critically think is to understand in a new way than what is normal. To give your all and try your hardest on something takes critical thinking. You cant jump into something without planning of some sort if you expect it to be good. I think it is hard for Americans to critically think because everything has to be now not later. so if you think in that way there is no room for thought just instantaneous judgment.