Assume yet!

Every day, we walk through life carrying a list of assumptions. Most of them are things we don’t even think about and would have trouble listing. If someone asked, “What are all your assumptions about today?” How would you answer?

Here are a few from my own mental checklist:

– Traffic will be terrible on 476.
– I am going to be able to park at the office.
– I will not have enough time to go out and get some lunch, so I better pack it.
– I am going to be very busy with back-to-back meetings.
– I am likely to be late for at least one meeting (either one will run over, or my laptop will reboot).

That seemed pretty good until I thought…

– I am not going to spill my coffee in the car, needing a change of clothes.
– I have my back up battery still in my purse in case my cell phone dies.
– My husband will remember to let the dog out after I leave.

But assumptions don’t just apply to daily routines. We make assumptions about each other, too. We assume someone can or can’t do something. We assume someone can or can’t learn a new way to do something. We assume someone doesn’t want to do something. That whole string of assumptions is limiting our possibilities. I refuse to accept it. It limits respect for people. It limits our hope for the future and belief that we can make life easier or better. I refuse to accept it.

Instead, I invite you to try a new line. Think of the word “yet. Regarding the people we support and with each other, add this sentiment and this language.

– This gentleman in our group home cannot make a sandwich…yet.
– This co-worker is not submitting completed assignments…yet.
– This manage is not recognizing staff achievement…yet.

If we adopt this mindset and this language, we can build respect, spark growth, and create new possibilities for ourselves and the people we support.

So, let’s start a movement: Assume Yet.