Avoid assumptions from "summary" of Am I Making Myself Clear? by Terry Felber
Making assumptions about other people's intentions or understanding can lead to misunderstandings. It is important to ask questions and seek clarification to ensure that assumptions are not made and that everyone is on the same page. Being mindful of assumptions can help to avoid confusion and foster clear communication.- When we communicate, it is important not to jump to conclusions and think people know what you mean. We must be aware of pre-conceived ideas about others that might stop us from having an open dialogue with one another.
- Be careful with your language and tone. Even if what you're saying is correct they way you say it can still come across as arrogant, unkind or dismissive. So make sure to gain an understanding of how the words you choose could potentially be interpreted.
- As a society, we tend to project our personal life experiences onto others without questioning their own background stories. This can lead to bad assumptions that put unnecessary strain on our conversations.
- Avoid falling into the trap of generalizing when you speak. While it may be tempting to use broad terms like "everyone", "all" or "always" especially when driven by feelings like impatience, it's essential to realize these statements don't paint a full picture.
- Before you say anything, check yourself. Ask yourself if there are any assumptions being made or stereotypes in play and try to ensure that they are accurate observations. It's easy to make snap judgements but very seldom will they end up being beneficial.
- Additionally, remain open-minded when discussing something and don't let pride get in the way. It's ok to agree to disagree and sharing opinions should be done in a respectful fashion. Our closed-mindedness can sometimes cloud even the most productive of conversations so listen with care.
