Assumptions About Others
The imagination cannot substitute for knowledge through conversations.
We assume that . . .
— others understand us. (Especially spouses).
— we understand them. (We love reading “body language”).
— others are open to frank discussions about sensitive topics. (No need to beat around the bush).
— others are closed to frank discussions about sensitive topics. (We should draw lines and never talk about sensitive topics).
— others are wrong to disagree with our opinion because we know we’re right. (After all we consider ourselves an authority on the subject).
— others are right to disagree with our opinion because right and wrong don’t matter anymore. (We should all just try to get along).
— if we take the right courses, read the right books, and get the right degrees, we will be able to manage people with emotional baggage quickly, efficiently, and successfully. (Communication is a piece of cake).
Any ideas how we might reduce the habit of forming faulty assumptions about others?
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.