Assumptions….

Have you ever faced a situation in which you assumed that something was going to happen….but it never did?

Have you ever looked at someone and assumed they weren’t worth the time to get to know…thus missing one of life’s greatest assets…Friends

Some assumptions keep us from growing and changing…because of the fear that doing something different

Assumptions can derail an opportunity…prevent us from branching out of our comfort zone. They cause some to view the glass as half empty…and before we know it…negativity seeps into our thoughts and we suddenly have become a pessimist….

You know that person or  you may be that person…with a chip on your shoulder…believing that the world is against you…

So what is a person to do…when we see ourselves assuming the worst?

Consider:

1. People aren’t against you

2. Just because something happened to you last year doesn’t mean bad luck is your lot in life!

3. Don’t be the victim…consider how you can turn things around…taking some action is better than doing nothing at all.

4. Post positive scriptures or affirmations on the bathroom mirror…kitchen refrigerator…office cork board.  (A few of my favorites are below)

5. Failure helps us grow and I believe it enables us to make better decisions the next time …and hopefully make fewer assumptions.

6. Time is precious…don’t waste it on assumptions…look for the positive…if you must assume…ASSUME THE BEST.

“I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.” Phillipians 4:13

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

“The joy of the Lord is your strength” Nehemiah 8:10

Facebook’s “Lesson’s Learned in Life”

“Sometimes you need to let things go”

“Stop thinking so much. It’s alright not to know the answers. They will come when you least expect it.”

#pessimistic #Assumptions #glasshalfempty #judgement #victim #action #scriptures

Dispelling an assumption…

“What airport?”he asked…”Midway”…hummm an English speaking American driving this cab…very unusual for my Chicago trips…small talk began as I sipped my hot coffee…always checking to be sure I knew the route we were taking to the airport…I asked him how long he had lived in Chicago….”All my life… not far from the hotel”…I’m thinking…that’s interesting as I am staying in a very nice suburb of Chicago…a discussion ensues about how few English speaking Americans drive cabs….”What did you do before this?”…”I’m a chemical engineer…after several mergers and the down economy… I lost my job. You can always find work…you just have to be willing to lower your expectations. I’m single and didn’t want to be a burden on society so I took this job. I like people and figure I can do this for now.” I was blown away…we continued our conversation for the thirty minutes ride…he jumped out of the cab and carried my bags to the Southwest baggage handler… (that was a first!) wished me a good day and off he went.

Assumptions… Have you ever considered the power of an assumption and how it can effect  your thinking.

The impact can be as small as missing out on a conversation to as big as the loss of a business opportunity. It can result in action or inaction, drawing a wrong conclusion, closing a door, severing a friendship or ending a relationship.

How often do you assume the worst….or the best (rose color glasses approach)? I find when I assume, I haven’t asked enough questions….I once assumed that teachers attending my technology training would bring their laptops…only half did!

It can alter ones approach, hinder the ability to connect, solve problems or address issues…

The definition of assumption was enough to make me think:

1. a statement that is assumed to be true from which a conclusion can be drawn

2. audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to

3. the act of assuming or taking for granted

Assumption….A powerful word if given the opportunity….quite a message to receive on the way to the airport.

#conversation #flight #cabby #Assumptions #airport #power #Southwest