Breakthrough Life Coach for Women's Issues

One of the things that can cause real problems in the area of communication and leadership is this thing called assumption. When we make an assumption, we jump to form a conclusion about someone or something without solid evidence or proof. We all know that sometimes people and situations aren’t always what they appear to be. A few examples would be:

1. We see a disheveled person and we assume they are homeless or a drunkard.
2. We see a person without a wedding ring on and assume they are single or divorced.
3. People from the North are unfriendly.
4. All Southerners lack intelligence.

Assumptions lead us to size up a person or situation almost immediately and can cause us to make erroneous decisions. Sometimes our assumptions are spot on and other times they are way off base and can get us into real trouble. Assumptions that are off base can be a guaranteed way to shut down communication and possibilities. Intimate relationships have been destroyed because of assumptions. People have lost and quit jobs because of assumptions.

So, how can we avoid the perils of assumption?  Here are six great questions to consider.

1. Am I judging the situation or person by what the person or situation looks like?
2. Am I mind reading? Do I believe I know exactly what the other person thinks and finish their sentences.
3. Do I assume people should know what I want and need?
4. Do I believe history will always repeat itself?
5. What might the other person be thinking, feeling and needing at this moment?
6. Am I projecting my own issues, baggage from my past on the situation or person?

The next time you are quick to jump to a hasty conclusion maybe you should take a deep breath and ask yourself some questions. What are my assumptions here?  Are my assumptions based on fact or presuppositions? Can I put myself in the other person’s shoes and consider what they might feel or need in the situation?

I believe if you will take the time to think about the situation or person a little more carefully and will take the time to examine your own thought processes, you will discover you make less snap judgments and are more open to experiences people and situations you may have simply dismissed before.