News & Tips

How to clear assumptions

2/14/20

Assumptions are stories that we make up about others or situations that may or may not be true.  Assumptions may hold us back from true intimacy in seeing the other person as they truly are.  Assumptions are all about us, the assumption maker, not the other person.  A leader knows the importance of clearing assumptions in order to work and co-create with another.  You need to obtain the permission of the other person in order to do this.  Once you have their permission, you start the conversation with "May I share an assumption about you?"  They say "Yes".  Then you state your assumption.  The other person asks you "How does that assumption impact you?"  You provide an honest answer.  This skill requires practice and courage.  It leads to an honest and productive conversation.  It clears the assumption and allows a more authentic relationship to develop.