We make assumptions when we don’t fully understand a situation. It is a natural reaction to immediately fill in any missing information by making up our own story. We do this because we like to try to make sense of people and situations. The problem with this is that most of the time our story is incorrect which causes all kinds of complications. The fact is, we don’t know what the truth is unless we ask.
As much as we would like to think we know what others are thinking, we simply can’t read minds. Sometimes we think we have the super power to know the reasons why people do the things they do (without asking them) which is pretty presumptuous. Remember, not everyone sees the world the same way you do (shocker, I know, but it is easy to forget).
Need another reason to stop making assumptions? Try turning it around, do you believe that other people can read your mind? Would you rather that someone makes up a story (an assumption) about what you are thinking and feeling? Or, would you prefer if they ask you?
When you ask instead of assume, you may not always get an answer you like or expect. Still, asking is much better than making up your own story because then you are in the position to make an informed next step.
Asking questions seems like an easy thing to do so why don’t we do it more often? Why do we sometimes become paralyzed when it comes time to:
- Contact a client to find out why they haven’t responded to a phone call or e-mail
- Ask a partner if they are satisfied with the way you work together
- Ask a colleague if they still plan to make that introduction for you that they promised
It goes something like this. Let’s say you see a prospective client at a networking event, he sees you too but when you try to approach him for a chat he leaves abruptly. That is all that happened, you don’t know why he had to leave and yet your mind starts making up a story, an assumption.
You might think he doesn’t like you or that he isn’t interested in your business. That may or may not be true but why bother thinking negative thoughts when you don’t really know the reason he left.
If you want to know the reason, ask! You may find out that he just went outside to put money in a parking meter, that he had a family emergency, or something else which was not related to you at all.
So how do you do it? When asking questions, do so in a non-judgmental way with the intention to discover the truth. Stick to the facts and use a neutral tone when asking questions verbally.
If you’re still not convinced, here are seven reasons why you, and your business, may be suffering because of assumptions. Making assumptions is bad for business because doing so can:
1. Cause unnecessary stress
2. Waste time and energy
3. Create misunderstandings
4. Cause you to miss out on great opportunities
5. Lower your confidence and create self-doubt
6. Lead you to offer the wrong product/service
7. Create obstacles that don’t exist
Hopefully it is clear why assumptions are not good for your business and you are willing to stop making them. Making assumptions isn’t good for any relationship which means you can apply this to your personal life as well. After all, you do have a life outside of your business right?
My challenge to you is to start paying attention to your thoughts and become aware of when you are making assumptions and then get into action and ask the right questions.
Asking questions is simple, and not always easy. Find the courage to do what may feel difficult and just ask. Ending assumptions is like any skill, it takes practice. The more you do it the easier it will become!
Copyright 2006
Life & Business Coach Stephanie Ward helps business owners set their profits on fire! Grab your free monthly profit tips, plus bonus report at: http://www.fireflycoaching.com.
Why Assumptions Are Bad for Business - To learn more about this author, visit Stephanie Ward's Website.
Like this article? Share it with your friends
 |
Related Articles |
|
 The Blind Leading the Blind: Why You Really Need a Coach
|
| |
So why would successful people seek out the services of a coach? Why do so many executives—who are already in top positions—demand an executive coach as part of their benefits package? Because they know from experie...
|
|
What Did You Just Say
|
| |
We all know the classic amusing explanation of why you should not assume, because it makes an "A* * of U and Me", but assumptions can be much more serious. An assumption can make way for hurt feelings, misconception...
|
|
Why Assumptions Are Bad for Business
|
| |
We make assumptions when we don’t fully understand a situation. It is a natural reaction to immediately fill in any missing information by making up our own story. We do this because we like to try to make sense o...
|
|
One Key to Strategic Planning is to Confront Your Assumptions
|
| |
Strategic planning is designed to help companies go beyond surviving to thriving. However, there are certain dangerous assumptions that can take any company down the wrong path. Read a story that may help you expla...
|
|
Your Limitations - Are they a Black Swan?
|
| |
umor me for a moment today. Please close your eyes and envision a swan. Now, take a few moments and describe that swan. What words did you use? White, graceful, bird, clean, dirty, ugly duckling, etc.
Long a...
|
 |
Related Businesses - Evan Elite Authors |
|
Leanne Hoagland Smith
Are you or your business where you want to be? Are you facing constant struggles in business or life in general? Would you like to "unlock" those obstacles keeping you from greater business or personal success? As your results partner, we can work together to unlock those desired results by achieving tomorrow's solutions today. Let’s use your strengths for real change through proven and affordable solutions where the real problems are identified. Are you seeking loyal customers, great attitudes, increased sales, improved profitability or just some sleep filled nights? Then we should talk because my clients have experienced exactly those types of results. Learn more about customer loyalty at http://www.processspec ialist.com/customer-loyalty.htm Give me a call 219.759.5601 for a free strategy session. I look forward to speaking with you. P.S. If you are seeking a motivational speaker, sales trainer or small business expert that will leave your audience smiling and remembering, please feel free to contact me at 219.759.5601. - Visit Leanne Hoagland Smith's Website |
The Evan Elite Authors program is currently in beta phase. For details please contact us.
|
|
|
Stephanie Ward
(Visit Stephanie's Website)
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR
NEWSLETTER OR WEB SITE?
You can, as long as you include this
information with it: Stephanie Ward is the
Marketing Coach for Entrepreneurs who want
to set their profits on fire! Grab your
FREE copy of the special report '7 Steps
to Attract More Clients in Less Time’ plus
monthly business building tips, at: ww
w.fireflycoaching.com.
|
|
|
|
![[Get Copyright Permissions]](http://license.icopyright.net/images/icopy-w.gif){kind=small}
