What's the best way to share your decision-making assumptions and limitations?

1 Why share assumptions and limitations?

Every decision is based on some assumptions and limitations, such as data availability, time constraints, resources, criteria, or preferences. Sharing these factors can help you build trust, credibility, and alignment with your audience. It can also help you avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, or errors that might arise from hidden or implicit assumptions and limitations. By being open and honest about your decision-making process, you can also invite feedback, suggestions, or alternatives that might improve your outcomes.

2 How to identify assumptions and limitations?

Before you can share your assumptions and limitations, you need to identify them first. To do this, consider the data or information used to make the decision and ask how reliable, accurate, and relevant it is. Additionally, consider the criteria or objectives used to evaluate the options and how they were prioritized or weighed. Think about any constraints or boundaries that may have affected your choices or actions, as well as any uncertainties or risks that were encountered or anticipated. Lastly, reflect on any biases or preferences that may have influenced your judgment or perception.

3 How to share assumptions and limitations?

Once you have identified your assumptions and limitations, it is important to share them in a way that is clear, concise, and respectful. To do so, use simple and precise language that avoids jargon or technical terms. Additionally, provide evidence or sources to support your assumptions and limitations. Acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses of your decision-making process and how they affect your results or implications. Invite questions or feedback from your audience to challenge, clarify, or complement your assumptions and limitations. Listen to their perspectives with openness and curiosity.

4 How to handle disagreements or objections?

Sometimes, disagreements or objections can arise from your audience regarding your assumptions and limitations. This is normal, as different people have different views, values, or expectations. To handle these situations effectively, it's important to respect the other person's opinion and perspective. Explain your rationale and reasoning, and seek common ground and compromise. Rather than dwelling on the past or the problem, focus on the solution and the future. Emphasize the positive and constructive aspects of your decision, and express your commitment to achieving the desired outcome. By doing so, you can make a difference in your decision-making communication and relationship.

5 How to follow up and review?

Sharing your assumptions and limitations is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires follow-up and review. You should track and measure your progress and performance, as well as update or revise your assumptions and limitations to ensure accuracy, relevance, and realism. Furthermore, you should celebrate your successes and learn from your failures. Recognize achievements, acknowledge mistakes, and share lessons learned with your audience. Following these steps will help you monitor and evaluate your decision and its consequences.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?