Assuming

When I was growing up, I often heard the phrase,

“Assuming makes an ASS out of U and ME.”

Assuming is one of the top behaviors that our clients say they would like to change in their cultures. Assuming comes in many forms:

• Jumping to conclusions based on limited evidence.
• Drawing false conclusions to defend our feelings. Don’t be a feelings hypocrite.
• Leading with stereotypes to justify our actions. What would you gain if you gave up justification?
• Keeping closed mind to avoid challenges to our beliefs.

In the last several decades I’ve spent great deal of energy studying and practicing compassionate communication strategies. I’ve come to an important realization; my biases, prejudices, lack of curiosity, closed-mindedness, and need to feel justified aren’t about you at all.

Assuming only makes an ass out of me.

Copyright Next Element Consulting, LLC 2021