Benevolent Assumption
Most of us know this as a benefit of the doubt. The key concept of giving a benefit of the doubt is that we are no longer fighting against others or ourselves. Instead of fighting, we are working with our surroundings. Assuming the best of everyone is one way of avoiding unnecessary frustration and feeding the negative seeds we plant by making worse assumptions. In more ways than one, this can be a good way to combat or avoid anger triggers. Here are some examples of immediate assumptions vs. benevolent assumptions.
Immediate Assumption:
★ Your boss was short with you because you are a bad employee.
★ Your husband is quiet today because he is unhappy in the marriage.
★ The person cut you off in traffic because they intend to hurt and frustrate you.
★ Your best friend did not call you back because he does not value your friendship.
Benevolent Assumption:
★ Your boss was short with you because she has been having a rough couple of weeks due to pressure from the management.
★ Your husband is quiet today because has not been feeling well for the past few hours.
★ The person cut you off in traffic because they are late for an interview to a job they have been looking for, for 6 months.
★ Your best friend did not call you back, because he misplaced his cell phone.
Action plan:
Make a decision to assume benevolence for just one day and see the effects it has on your perspectives and sense of peace.
