Assess Your Assumptions
Identify the assumptions behind a goal, then examine their evidence and alternatives. Outside feedback can reveal a missed perspective, but agreement alone does not show that an assumption is true.
THE IDEA
List the assumptions behind a goal or a belief about yourself. Examine each one: what supports it, what would count against it, and how much does the decision depend on it?
Someone with relevant knowledge who is not invested in the goal may notice gaps or alternatives. Treat their response as evidence to consider, rather than a verdict based on whether they agree.
Repeatedly acting on an assumption can make it feel settled. If it comes from a past experience, ask which conditions still apply and which have changed. Revise the assumption when the evidence warrants it, without assuming that the past is either irrelevant or destined to repeat.
When to use it
Before starting a new project, list and validate your assumptions about resources, timelines, and risks.
When preparing for a difficult conversation, examine assumptions about the other person's motives or reactions.
While setting personal goals, question assumptions about your capabilities and the obstacles you perceive.
When feeling stuck in a routine, assess assumptions that are limiting your perspective on alternatives.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Test anxiety based on past failures
A student assumes they will fail an upcoming exam because they failed a similar test years ago. By listing and arguing each assumption (e.g., 'I haven't studied enough,' 'I'm bad at this subject'), they realize they have prepared thoroughly and the circumstances are different, reducing their anxiety.
Assuming a colleague's intent from an email
Someone assumes a colleague is angry because of a curt email. By questioning that assumption and considering alternative explanations (e.g., they were busy, the email was misread), they avoid an unnecessary conflict.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What assumptions are you making about this situation that might be based on past experiences rather than current reality?
How would you argue against your own assumption as if you were an impartial third party?
Can you identify an assumption that has been reinforced by repeatedly operating in the same way, and how could you challenge it?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Thinking in Systems and Mental Models Think Like a Super Thinker (Dawson, Marcus P)