Assumptions

Assumptions are the often rotten fruit borne of taking something or someone for granted, or supposing a thing without proof.  They can be the result of lazy thinking and an unwillingness to explore other options.  Assumptions are dangerous because they can limit possibilities, stifle creativity, and shroud the truth.

A few weeks ago I learned a lesson about assumptions while waiting for Diane at a hotel restaurant.  Early that morning I went for a walk, with the understanding that Diane would join me for breakfast in an hour.  I arrived on time.  Diane wasn’t there.  Several minutes later I was still waiting, assuming that Diane had misunderstood.  “She must be waiting in the room for me,” I concluded, lamenting that I would need to leave my hot tea and comfortable chair to go get her.  Just then she entered the restaurant.  As it turned out, Diane had hoped to surprise me by waiting in the lobby for me to come in from my walk, but I entered the hotel through a different door.

Obviously, there could have been many reasons why Diane did not meet me in the restaurant at the arranged time.  But I was content to settle on the first explanation that crossed my mind.  I assumed. 

To assume is to stop thinking when we arrive at a conceivable explanation, rather than taking the time and energy to explore other possibilities.  Lazy thinking encourages us to be content with the first option, rather than making certain we have discovered the verifiable explanation.  When assumptions start, open minds close and thoughtful questions cease.

Fortunately, this particular assumption was set straight in a matter of minutes.  I wonder about other faulty assumptions I have made that have yet to be recognized and corrected.

Don’t assume the initial option is the only possibility and get trapped by your assumption.  Take the time to ask questions.  Leave the options open, explore the possibilities, discover the truth.