Critical
Part of speech: adjective
Definition: Inclined to find fault or criticize; fastidious; captious; censorious; exacting. Pertaining to, or indicating, a crisis or turning point. Extremely important. Relating to criticism or careful analysis, such as literary or film criticism. Of a condition involving unstable vital signs and an unfavorable prognosis. Likely to go out of control if disturbed, that is, opposite of stable. Of the point (in temperature, reagent concentration etc.) where a nuclear or chemical reaction becomes self-sustaining.
Example sentence: Self-awareness is a trait - or maybe 'practice' is the more accurate way to put it - that everyone can always improve at. It is part emotional intelligence, part perceptiveness, part critical thinking. It means knowing your weaknesses, of course, but it also means knowing your strengths and what motivates you.
Vital
Part of speech: adjective
Definition: Relating to, or characteristic of life.Necessary to the continuation of life; being the seat of life; being that on which life depends.Invigorating or life-giving.Necessary to continued existence.Relating to the recording of life events.Important
Example sentence: When you lose a parent, you realize how vital they are to the foundation of your life. It's impossible to understand what it means until that curtain is pulled. You're an orphan. But then I think that life is kind of remarkable, and the thing that causes the biggest pain can also bring amazing energy.