Anticipate Assumptions
“Examine yourself, and test your impressions; this is the beginning of wisdom.” — Hierocles
The Obstacle
Assumptions are necessary.
We could not possibly enter every situation.
Conversation.
Circumstance
Problem as though it were new.
It would take far too much cognitive processing power.
We would be exhausted.
We use assumptions to get us by day to day.
In the routine tasks and circumstances we find ourselves in.
Most of the time, autopilot gets us where we need to go without issue.
Assumptions fail us and we get into trouble when things become complex.
When circumstances are complicated.
Conflict arises.
Problems are complex or need to be solved with teams.
We tend to assume that our position is the best.
That we should control the narrative and the process.
We assume what other people are thinking.
Feeling.
Intending.
We would not want others to do this to us.
It would create frustration, defensiveness, and pushback.
And yet, we do it.
Assumptions cost us time.
Energy.
Creativity.
Trust.
They do not allow for proper exploration of the conflict.
Person.
Problem.
Situation.
They create undue stress in an already difficult situation.
These cognitive shortcuts end up taking us the long and painful way.
The Gift and Opportunity
We know we assume.
And we know what happens when others assume.
Assumptions will happen.
We can assume that.
The opportunity is to anticipate the assumptions.
When situations.
Conflict
Problems.
Circumstances arise that are difficult – anticipate that assumptions are coming.
Recognize that the assumptions that serve us in normal times will not serve us now.
Enter discussions seeking to understand.
Explore the problem fully – before acting.
Stay open and creative.
Someone else may have something important to contribute.
Remember what is important.
Act from that place.
Instead of what feels urgent.
Instead of the trivial stroking of the ego.
When we anticipate assumptions, we slow things down.
Take our time to navigate the understanding and problem-solving phase.
We find new ways.
Solve for what is important.
Instead of what seems urgent.
Or seeking to be right.
When we do this
We perform at a higher level.
Reduce stress.
Solve the actual problem.
Build trusting relationships that endure.
We set the stage for when the next problem arises.
Anticipate your assumptions.
The Practice of Self-Mastery
Notice when a situation shifts from simple to complex. Assumptions are no longer reliable.
Slow yourself down deliberately. Speed kills.
Replace assuming with exploring..
Act on what is important.
CHEAT CODE: STOP → DROP ASSUMPTIONS→ EXPLORE →ACT
