Making assumptions seems to be inherent to the human condition. We are often quick to make assumptions, yet they cause havoc. Do you see this happening within and all around us? Do you ever get tired of TV shows, news, movies, other media, politics, etc. brimming over with assumptions? Or, are you personally frustrated at the assumptions people make (or have made) about you? Assumptions perpetuate bias, stigma, create polarity and more.

Assumptions hurt so many people and ourselves as well. Morningcoach.com says that, “making assumptions is an easy way to avoid asking potentially embarrassing or difficult questions.” It does take a certain amount of risk to ask questions or ask for an open (non violent) conversation, but don’t we all deserve that?

I believe in the goodness of people and that most everyone wants to bring more peace and harmony and love into this world—but making assumptions can limit the very things we want. Remember, we do NOT have to agree with everything and everyone. However, it’s important to listen from a place of non-judgment and be open to learning something new. According to hellobrain.com, “being open minded simply means that before you assume, you ask and learn, before you judge, you understand, and before you say anything, you think.”

Please let’s have the courage and compassion to: ask and learn, listen without judgment, and first—before we do speak—to think how we would want to be treated in the same situation. We can change so much by one less assumption at a time!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist at Recovery Innovations. She writes as an expression of her heart in hopes of connecting to others’ hearts, so that no one feels alone on this journey-and instead feels valued, seen, and heard while growing in empowerment.