Assuming Leads to Unnecessary Conversations

Why do we assume things? It's a learned behavior that can get us in a pickle sometimes. Ever heard the saying, "Assuming makes an A** out of you?" Yes, we have all been there. Let me share a perspective on assuming.

I've come to believe that assuming is rude. When we assume it leaves no space for clarity and understanding. The action and intention behind assuming is stating that something is a fact without fact-checking. It's a belief without a truth.

Assuming is a learned behavior. We may assume because it's how we were once treated or spoken to in the past, so we assume upon to others. It's also putting limitations on ourselves not to think or ask questions, leading to resentment and limited space for relationship building.

Making assumptions could be viewed as someone thinking less than or incapable.

Ask more questions. Assume less.

Turn your assumption statements into questions to connect and build healthier relationships.

Example ----- Assumption: The manager notices that the team member seems tired and assumes they might want a lighter workload. So, they decide to give them a smaller, less challenging task without asking for their preference.

Result: The team member feels underutilized and unchallenged. They were eager to take on a more significant task that would help them grow and prove their skills.