(Principles are basic truths that, when applied, cause success to come to you easier and quicker.)
More problems are caused by assumptions than perhaps any other single source. Yet, many people make most of their decisions based on assumptions rather than checking out what’s real. There are several reasons for this.
First, it’s easy. You’re ready for a decision right now, no efforting required.
Second, it lets you feel really smart, or at least appear to be. Sometimes we feel the need to be the “smart one” in the room.
Third, by assuming, you don’t have to look at what’s real, which may be what you don’t want to see.
Fourth, well, the list of reasons to assume is endless. The question is, what is a better strategy?
Try asking questions instead of telling what you assume. Try listening instead of talking. Try waiting for clarity instead of having a shoot-from-the-hip “answer.”
Before you repeat something you read on the Internet or had a friend tell you what came from the neighbor of their cousin’s sister’s husband, do a little research. Check out the facts. Apply a little logic. Ask “does this seem reasonable?”
Look at your personal history and see if you’ve made some incorrect assumptions which cost you.
There is really no reason to base the success of your life on assumptions. It’s a flawed strategy.
Coaching Point: Do you remember how you feel when you sense that what someone is telling you as fact is really just their assumption? Do you want others to feel that when you speak?
Copyright 2010 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.
